phd in music education salary

EdDPrograms.org

Ed.D. Programs in Music Education

Ready to advance your career with an Ed.D. in Music Education? Use our detailed listings and degree guide to explore Music Ed programs in P-12 and higher education! Compare online & on-campus options. Learn more about prerequisites for Ed.D. in Music Education applicants. Delve into details on coursework. And get a head-start on planning your job path after graduation.

What is an Ed.D. in Music Education?

An Ed.D. in Music Education is designed to prepare graduates for mid- to high-level music teaching & leadership positions in PreK-12 settings, private schools & studios, colleges & universities, and interdisciplinary arenas.

You may wish to pursue a music education doctoral program in order to:

• Learn about advanced theories & practice of music education
• Explore principles of musicology and music theory
• Become versed in applied research techniques & tools
• Develop innovative music programs & educational interventions

Types of Doctorate in Music Education Programs

Ed.d. in music education.

You won’t find many doctorates that are entirely devoted to music education in our listings . The rare example is Columbia’s Ed. in Music Education , which is designed to train music educators for high-level teaching roles and district & administrative positions.

Ed.D. in Curriculum & Instruction: Music Education

You’re more likely to find music education being offered as a concentration within an Ed.D. in Curriculum & Instruction. Our music education listings contain a number of these options. As the name implies, these doctorates help teachers become instructional leaders and curriculum specialists in their chosen field (e.g. music). We dig into the details in our guide to Ed.D. in Curriculum & Instruction Programs .

Ed.D. in Educational Leadership: Music Education

If you’re interested in leadership positions, you could also consider an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership with a concentration in music education. You’ll find one or two examples in our listings . Doctoral programs in educational leadership often cover areas such as continuous improvement, effective management, systematic & institutional reform, and social justice. See our guide to Ed.D. in Educational Leadership Programs for more details.

DMA vs. Ed.D. in Music Education

Instead of an Ed.D. in Music Education, you might want to consider earning a Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA).

• DMA programs combine advanced coursework in practical specializations (e.g. composition, conducting, performance, or music education) with graduate credits in music history, theory, and pedagogy.
• The DMA can be very similar to an Ed.D. For example, BU’s DMA in Music Education covers almost all of the same bases as an education doctorate.

Ph.D. vs. Ed.D. in Music Education

Generally speaking, an Ed.D. in Music Education is a practice-oriented doctorate that focuses on applied research & theory and workplace challenges (e.g. designing music programs). A Ph.D. in Music Education is a research-heavy degree that prepares graduates for high-level research jobs and university positions.

But the line is pretty fuzzy. When we looked at job listings for Assistant or Associate Professors of Music Education, employers were asking for a doctorate in a relevant field (e.g. music education, conducting, etc.). This could be a Ph.D., DMA, or Ed.D. Hiring committees may be much more interested in your work experience!

Visit our detailed guide ( here ) to learn more about the differences between Ed.D. and Ph.D. programs, read insights from doctorate in education experts, and more.

Earning an Ed.D. in Music Education

Music education prerequisites.

• Master’s Degree: Check the admissions requirements. A school that offers a specialist degree in music education (e.g. Columbia) may want to see an MA or Master of Music degree. But a doctoral program that involves curriculum & instruction or leadership may simply ask for a relevant master’s degree.
• Minimum GPA: GPA requirements will vary. The standard minimum for Ed.D. programs is 3.0, but prestigious Colleges of Education may have a higher threshold (e.g. 3.25-3.5).
• Work Experience: Universities may or may not specify work experience in the admissions section, but it will be a factor in their decision-making process. The standard is 3+ years of teaching/professional experience. Some schools will also want you to hold a valid educator’s certificate or the equivalent in your concentration.
• Additional Requirements: GRE or MAT scores may or may not be required—it varies from school to school. You may also be asked to supply an admissions essay, résumé, academic writing sample, and 2-4 letters of recommendation.

Music Education Coursework

Columbia’s Ed. in Music Education is a good test case for coursework. It divides the curriculum into 4 major areas: Music Education, Music Content, Research in Music Education (including dissertation prep), and Out of Program research courses & electives.

Sample courses in the music education & content sections include:

• Foundations of Music Education
• Approaches to Teaching Musical Instruments
• Vocal Pedagogy
• Comprehensive Musicianship
• Applied Conducting, Instrumental, Voice, or Composition
• Applications of New Technology in Music Education
• Children’s Musical Development
• Teaching Applied Music in College
• Teaching and Administration of Music in College

Music Education Internship & Fieldwork

In our listings , you may occasionally run into an Ed.D. in Music Education or the equivalent that includes a professional internship or field experiences. If you don’t see them listed, ask the Ed.D. program coordinator if these options are available.

We tend to favor internships, since they will give you access to a mentor and expose you to new practices. But we recognize that they’ll cut into your work time!

Music Education Dissertation or Capstone Project

All Ed.D. programs—including specialist doctorates in music education—will culminate in a traditional 5-chapter dissertation, a Dissertation in Practice (DiP), or a practical capstone project. We discuss the key differences between these three options in our guide to No Dissertation Ed.D. Programs .

Online Ed.D. in Music Education Programs

Are ed.d. programs in music education offered online.

Occasionally. Our program database contains a couple of online doctorates in music education. We’ve flagged them with an “Offered Online” marker.

Do Online Ed.D. in Music Education Programs Contain Residencies?

Yes. For example:

• St. Thomas University’s cohort-based Online Ed.D. in Educational Leadership and Learning is almost entirely online, but it does contain face-to-face summer residencies.
• Valdosta’s  Online Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction: P-12 Disciplinary Concentration – Music Education includes one-day doctoral seminars at the beginning of years one & two.

Music Education Careers

Ed.d. in music education jobs.

An Ed.D. in Music Education will qualify you for PreK-12 educational leadership positions, college & university teaching roles, and music education jobs in the private sector.

Sample job titles for Ed.D. graduates include:

• Music Director
• Director of Music Therapy
• District Supervisor of Music
• Early Childhood Music Specialist
• Assistant Professor of Music
• Assistant Professor of Music Therapy
• Assistant Professor of Music Education
• Music Technology Professor

If you’re interested in university teaching positions, check out the HigherEdJobs section on Music Faculty and The Chronicle of Higher Education’s job board for Music Faculty .

Ed.D. in Music Education Salary

Music education is a niche field to begin with, so it’s tricky to find hard data. Having said that:

• Common salary sites (e.g. Glassdoor, Indeed, Salary.com, Payscale, etc.) can supply you with numbers for popular job titles (e.g. Music Supervisor).
• The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) publishes occupational employment & wage data for Postsecondary Art, Drama, and Music Teachers .
• Some universities will also quote proposed salaries in their job descriptions.

Is an Ed.D. in Music Education Worth it?

Talk to your mentors and recent alumni before you make a decision. A doctorate in music education is a no-brainer if you want to qualify for high-level faculty positions at universities, but it will involve a whole lot of time and money. If you’re interested in PreK-12  and district-level positions, you may not need one at all.

Music Education Resources and Organizations

• American Music Therapy Association (AMTA) : AMTA is committed to the progressive development of the therapeutic use of music in rehabilitation, special education, and community settings.
• International Society for Music Education (ISME) : ISME is one of the largest societies for music educators in the world. It seeks to build an international community of music educators, foster a global intercultural understanding among the world’s music educators, and promote music education for people of all ages.
• Music Teachers National Association (MTNA) : MTNA has 20,000+ members in 50 states. It aims to advance the value of music study and music-making to society and support the careers and professionalism of those who teach music.
• National Association for Music Education (NAfME) : NAfME advocates at the local, state, and national levels for music education; provides resources for teachers, parents, and administrators; hosts professional development events; and organizes a variety of opportunities for students and music education teachers.
• Society for Music Teacher Education (SMTE) : SMTE membership is open to all NAfME members with an interest in music teacher education. It hosts a biennial Symposium on Music Teacher Education .
• Society for Research in Music Education (SRME) : SRME was created to foster and improve the quality of scholarship and research within the music education profession. It publishes the Journal of Research in Music Education (JRME) .

School Listings

6 Schools Found

Augusta University

College of Education

Augusta, Georgia

Doctor of Education in Educational Innovation - P12 Music Education

• Curriculum Info
• How To Apply

Georgia State University

Department of Early Childhood and Elementary Education

Atlanta, Georgia

Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction - Music Education

University of georgia.

College of Education/Hugh Hodgson School of Music

Athens, Georgia

Doctor of Education in Music Education

Valdosta state university.

College of Education and Human Services

Valdosta, Georgia

Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction - P-12 Disciplinary - Music Education

Offered Online

University of St. Thomas

College of Education, Leadership and Counseling

Saint Paul, Minnesota

Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership and Learning - Music Education

Online doctor of education in educational leadership and learning - music education, columbia university in the city of new york.

Department of Arts and Humanities

New York, New York

EdD in College Teaching of Music Education

Edd in music education.

Stephanie Christensen

Colleen M. Conway

Kate Fitzpatrick

Michael Hopkins

Marie McCarthy

Carlos Xavier Rodriguez

Julie Skadsem

Resources for:

Apr 28, 2024 12:00pm

Sheldon Frazier, conducting

Galvin Recital Hall

Apr 28, 2024 2:30pm

Minghao Liu, clarinet

McClintock Choral and Recital Room

Apr 28, 2024 3:00pm

Symphonic Band

Pick-Staiger Concert Hall

• Lectures & Interviews
• Master Classes
• Recitals & Chamber Music
• Visiting Artists

Main Resources

Main utility, degree requirements, phd in music: music education.

The PhD in Music Education is designed for individuals who have (1) a solid musical background, (2) successful teaching experience, (3) high levels of intellectual capacity, and (4) strong professional leadership abilities. Awarding of the degree is based not only on completion of objective requirements, but on the level of distinction attained by the candidate in the above four qualities.

Program of Study – 18 units

Music Education Core – 2 units

• MUSIC ED 422 Curriculum Development in Music Education
• MUSIC ED 458 Philosophical Basis of Music Education

Research in Music Education – 3 units

• MUSIC ED 523 Paradigms and Processes of Research in Music Teaching and Learning
• MUSIC ED 524 Qualitative Research in Music Education
• MUSIC ED 525 Quantitative Research in Music Education

Music Education Electives – 3 units

Students must select three MUSIC ED courses such as those listed below. For a complete listing of approved courses for PhD Students, see the Graduate Catalog .

• MUSIC ED 401 Music in Higher Education  MUSIC ED 426 World Music Pedagogy   MUSIC ED 430 Seminar in General Music Education  MUSIC ED 435 Selected Topics in Music Education  MUSIC ED 437 Psychology of Music Teaching & Learning

Cognate Area – 3 units

Students enroll in three courses in a non-music field relevant to their main interest.

Electives – 7 units

Focused study leading to a dissertation, musical studies, special needs and interests

MUSIC ED 520 Research Seminar

All PhD students must register continuously for MUSIC ED 520 Research Center Seminar (0 units). Students have the option to take 520 one time for one unit of credit.

Sample PhD Curriculum in Music Education

All courses for the PhD must appear on the authorized list of courses as published by The Graduate School.

Additional Requirements

Center for the Study of Education and the Musical Experience

During the years of residence, regular participation in the weekly seminar of the Center for the Study of Education and the Musical Experience is required. Continuing participation beyond the residence years is strongly encouraged.

Teaching Competency

As a part of their graduate school fellowship, all PhD students are expected to work as both research and teaching assistants. Students must have at least one written observation of their teaching by a music education faculty member along with any student course evaluations as appropriate.

Presentation Outside the Bienen School of Music

This requirement is designed to stimulate early involvement in the presentation of original research at a regional, national, or international level meeting. This requirement is meant to help the student develop professional experiences consistent with those of a professor of music education.

Waiver of Courses

Any course waived because the student has taken it previously, has had the same course elsewhere, or through proficiency determination, will normally be replaced by an elective course in that area of the program. The major advisor may, upon the student’s petition, exercise discretion in this matter, substituting a course outside the area of the waiver for a good cause.

Qualifying Examination and Candidacy

There are four significant steps to candidacy for the PhD in music with a concentration in music education: 

• successful completion of coursework,
• demonstration of successful teaching at the college level,
• peer-reviewed presentation at a professional meeting outside of NU, and
• successful completion of the qualifying examination.

At that point, the student is advanced to candidacy officially and can pursue their dissertation research. Candidacy should be achieved no later than 6 months following completion of course work.

At an appropriate time toward the end of coursework, each student will take a qualifying examination. The examination includes a written portion and an oral defense. Questions for the examination are written by the student with the approval of the examination committee. The answers are presented to the committee in written form and then defended in an oral examination.

Key Milestones

Contact Graduate Services:  [email protected]   847-491-5740

University of Missouri

College of Arts and Science

School of Music

Phd in music education.

The PhD in Music Education is designed to prepare students for careers in higher education as music education teacher/researchers, as ensemble conductors with a strong commitment to music education teaching and research, or as master teachers or music supervisors in the K-12 system. Applicants must be certified music teachers, with a bachelor’s or master’s degree in music education and at least three years of school teaching experience, or present evidence of equivalent experiences. Individuals with music teaching experience in higher education but without music teaching experience in elementary or secondary schools are eligible for   admission, but   are required to complete prerequisites and field experiences in elementary and secondary schools prior to taking comprehensive examinations. 

This program is “research-intensive,” and students are expected to complete four to five research courses, read past and current research, assist and eventually collaborate with faculty and peers on research projects, develop the ability to translate research findings to classroom applications, and ultimately achieve independence as a researcher.

Students encounter a stimulating curriculum that is relevant to their career aspirations, taught by faculty who are on the cutting edge of best-practice pedagogy, research, scholarship, and creative activity. Music education faculty members play active leadership roles in international and national organizations devoted to improving preK-12th grade music instruction. They also regularly publish their work in premier research and practitioner   journals, and   remain actively engaged with music teachers through presentations and clinics. 

The degree program moved to the School of Music from the College of Education, effective August 2018.  It is fully accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music.

Additional information about program expectations is available on the MU PhD in Music Education Criteria document available to download from this page.

PhD admissions are selective. Applicants submit college transcripts, TOEFL scores (international students only), letters of recommendation, Curriculum Vitae, formal statement of purpose, writing sample, and must meet with music education faculty in person, if possible, or, if not, via video conferencing. Depending on their interest and specialty areas, applicants may be required to audition for conducting or applied music faculty. Admissions decisions are based on multiple criteria, including faculty time commitments, judgment of the student’s potential for success in the program and profession, program needs, and the fit between the student and the program.  Thus, not everyone who meets minimum qualifications “on paper” is admitted.  

Within the general framework, the PhD program is relatively flexible and individualized for each student. The degree requires 72 hours beyond the bachelor’s degree. Specific coursework is planned by the doctoral student and the four- to five-member doctoral committee to meet the student’s individual needs and future goals. The committee is chaired by a music education   faculty member who is a member of the Doctoral Faculty. Students choose one to two support areas, one in music and an optional second area in a related field. The support-area courses are not   prescribed, but   are selected in consultation with a faculty member in that area, who often serves as a doctoral committee member. In addition to the coursework requirements, students must complete one “research internship” and one “teaching internship,” which may or may not be attached to credit hours. These are faculty-supervised experiences designed to help prepare the students with skills they will need to enter the professoriate.  

Residency is essential to the acquisition of experiences necessary for success in the program and the profession. Students’ commitment to spending at least one academic year (fall and winter semester) as a full-time student on the MU campus is required (enrollment in a minimum of 9 credit hours per semester; may be a Teaching Assistant or Research Assistant, but not hold more than a part-time position elsewhere, to be negotiated with the doctoral committee). Students are expected to complete the degree in a timely manner, meeting all Graduate School deadlines. This means a maximum of 5 years for completing coursework from first enrollment as a PhD student (coursework is generally completed in 2 years of full-time study including summers) and 5 years for completing the dissertation after passing comprehensive exams (this is a maximum—most students finish in less time).  

Students complete comprehensive examinations upon the completion of their formal coursework. These include projects and essays assigned by the music education and support-area faculty, designed to demonstrate that the students have synthesized course materials at a high level, and achieved appropriate research expertise. In lieu of a written examination in a performance-based support area, students may prepare and present a public lecture-recital as a performer or conductor, according to program criteria and under the supervision of the faculty. The comprehensive examination experience concludes with an oral examination. Upon successful completion of the exam, the student is considered a candidate for the degree.   

The final stage of the doctoral degree is completion of a doctoral dissertation that demonstrates the candidate’s potential to become an independent scholar, and which makes a contribution to knowledge related to some aspect of music teaching and/or learning. The topic and methodology are selected by the student, in consultation with the doctoral committee. The written proposal is subject to the approval of the committee. The dissertation research is completed independently, but in close consultation with the advisor and others, as necessary. Several weeks after the complete dissertation is drafted and distributed to the committee, there is a final oral exam, composed of a public presentation and a closed question and answer “defense” with the committee. After passing the examination the student works with the advisor and sometimes members of the committee to make any final revisions   required, and   deposits the completed document electronically with the Graduate School.  

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http://music.uoregon.edu

The University of Oregon offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Data-Driven Music Performance and Composition, Music Composition, Music Education, Music Theory, and Musicology.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to:

• The doctoral degree program in music education emphasizes the preparation of music administrators, teachers, researchers, and educational leaders who are able to think abstractly, generalize knowledge, carry on research and apply research results to their own areas of specialization, and communicate effectively both orally and in written form. The program involves the scholarly study of the philosophical and psychological foundations of music education and the processes of teaching and learning music, culmination in a dissertation.

Doctor of Philosophy in Music Education

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School of Music

• Graduate Degree Programs
• Ph.D. in Music Education

School of Music Doctor of Philosophy Music Education

Doctor of philosophy (ph.d.) in music education.

The School of Music offers the Doctor of Philosophy in Music Education with an emphasis on research and music educator preparation. Students engage a core curriculum of 20-24 core hours that emphasize expertise in music education content knowledge, expertise in music educator preparation, and music education research design and methods.

Programs by cognate area

Although there are not concentrations/tracks for the PhD in Music Education, students elect 1-2 cognates by completing at least 9 hours in the cognate area. Cognates might include interdisciplinary studies in fine arts, music education curriculum, conducting, performance, exceptionalities, music theory, musicology, ethnomusicology, psychology or other student-selected/faculty-approved cognates.

Suggested Cognates (others are also possible)

• Performance
• Exceptionalities
• Educator Preparation
• Research (9 hours beyond required)
• Composition
• Interdisciplinary Studies in Fine Arts
• International Music Education
• Music Education Curriculum
• Ethnomusicology
• Music Theory
• Student-selected/Faculty-approved Cognates

What Sets Us Apart

Texas Tech University is only one of a few universities in the state of Texas that offers a PhD in Music Education.  This doctoral degree is offered in addition to the established PhD in Fine Arts with a Specialization in Music Education.  The PhD in Music Education will effectively prepare graduate students for successful careers on the university level due to the emphasis that is placed on research and music teacher preparation.

Ph.D. Degree

Texas Tech University is only one of a few universities in the state of Texas that offers a PhD in Music Education in addition to a PhD in Fine Arts with a Specialization in Music Education.

Preparedeness

The PhD in Music Education will prepare graduate students to have successful careers as scholars and music educators in higher education.

Program Highlights

The School of Music offers the Doctor of Philosophy in Music Education with an emphasis on research and music educator preparation. Students engage in courses that emphasize expertise in music education content knowledge, expertise in music educator preparation, and music education research design and methods, which enables graduates of the program to prepare for successful careers in higher education.

Students elect 1-2 cognates, which might include interdisciplinary studies in fine arts, music education curriculum, conducting, performance, exceptionalities, music theory, musicology, ethnomusicology, psychology or other student-selected/faculty-approved cognates. This enables students to tailor this terminal degree to suit their individual needs and interests.

The Ph.D. in Music Education requires a minimum of 60 semester hours and has a minimum residence requirement that is fulfilled by satisfactory completion of 18 semester hours of graduate coursework during one 12-month period.  Full residency, however, is highly encouraged for this degree because of the required experiences with music teacher preparation activities.

MORE HIGHLIGHTS

Facilities & Tech nology

Students in our Ph.D. in Music Education program have access to all spaces within the School of Music, including Hemmle Hall, the Choral Room, the Band Hall, practice rooms, and the various classrooms throughout the building.  Students also have access to the technology that is present in the academic classrooms and rehearsal spaces, as well as the pianos within the practice rooms.  As a part of the music education curriculum, students will make frequent use of different learning platforms/software programs (e.g., MusicFirst, Google Drive, Zoom).  

Student Access

Access to all spaces within the School of Music, including Hemmle Hall, the Choral Room, the Band Hall, practice rooms, and the academic classrooms

Learning Platforms

Students make frequent use of different learning platforms/software programs (e.g., MusicFirst, Noteflight, Google Drive)

Ad miss ions

We welcome students from many different backgrounds and experiences. Entering first-year students with limited composition experience will take an Introduction to Composition class that will begin the process of understanding the many different paths/tracks to take. The class will emphasize an understanding of a variety of musical languages and the many different kinds of composition in today's world. Of course, there will also be composing, with the goal of public performances of your works. Individual lessons within a faculty studio will normally begin after taking this Intro class. Students with a large and developed portfolio will usually be assigned studio lessons.

In order to apply for admission into the Graduate School and the School of Music, follow these instructions .

In addition to submitting the required materials, a personal interview or audition before the appropriate divisional faculty is typically required, but if travel to Texas Tech University is not an option, telephone or online interviews may be an option.  A preliminary review of application materials by faculty generally precedes the invitation for a personal audition or interview.

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Students engage in a core curriculum of 20-24 core hours that emphasize expertise in music education content knowledge, expertise in music educator preparation, and music education research design and methods.

The PhD in Music Education requires a minimum of 60 semester hours and has a minimum residence requirement that is fulfilled by satisfactory completion of 18 semester hours of graduate coursework during one 12-month period.  Full residency, however, is highly encouraged for this degree because of the required experiences with music teacher preparation activities.

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Degree Requirements

Sample plan of study, comprehensive examination process, dissertation requirements.

The PhD in Music Education is designed to prepare students for careers in higher education as music education teacher/researchers, as ensemble conductors with a strong commitment to music education teaching and research, or as master teachers or music supervisors in the K-12 system. Applicants must be certified music teachers, with a bachelor’s or master’s degree in music education, or present evidence of equivalent experience. Individuals with music teaching experience in higher education but without music teaching experience in elementary or secondary schools are eligible for admission, but are required to complete prerequisites and field experiences in elementary and secondary schools prior to taking comprehensive examinations. 

This program is “research-intensive,” and students are expected to complete four to five research courses, read past and current research, assist and eventually collaborate with faculty and peers on research projects, develop the ability to translate research findings to classroom applications, and ultimately achieve independence as a researcher.

Students encounter a simulating curriculum that is relevant to their career aspirations, taught by faculty who are on the cutting edge of best-practice pedagogy, research, scholarship, and creative activity. Music education faculty members play active leadership roles in international and national organizations devoted to improving preK-12th grade music instruction. They also regularly publish their work in premier research and practitioner journals, and remain actively engaged with music teachers through presentations and clinics. 

The degree program is fully accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music.  Please see https://music.missouri.edu for information about the School of Music.

Within the general framework, the PhD program is relatively flexible and individualized for each student. The degree requires 72 hours beyond the bachelor’s degree. Specific coursework is planned by the doctoral student and the four- to five-member doctoral committee to meet the student’s individual needs and future goals. The committee is chaired by a music education faculty member who is a member of the Doctoral Faculty. Students choose one to two support areas, one in music and an optional second area in a related field. The support-area courses are not prescribed, but are selected in consultation with a faculty member in that area, who often serves as a doctoral committee member. In addition to the coursework requirements, students must complete one “research internship” and one “teaching internship,” which may or may not be attached to credit hours. These are faculty-supervised experiences designed to help prepare the students with skills they will need to enter the professoriate.

Residency is essential to the acquisition of experiences necessary for success in the program and the profession. Students are required to spend a minimum of 3 years as a full-time, on campus graduate student (2 years of full-time master's work can be counted towards this requirement). Students are expected to complete the degree in a timely manner, meeting all graduate school deadlines. These include a maximum of five years for completing coursework from first enrollment as a PhD student (coursework is generally completed in two years of full-time study including summers) and five years for completing the dissertation after passing comprehensive exams. This is a maximum; most of our students finish in less time.

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Total credits specific to degree: 72 beyond bachelor’s degree.

Students complete comprehensive examinations upon the completion of their formal coursework. These include projects and essays assigned by the music education and support-area faculty, designed to demonstrate that the students have synthesized course materials at a high level, and achieved appropriate research expertise. In lieu of a written examination in a performance-based support area, students may prepare and present a public lecture-recital as a performer or conductor, according to program criteria and under the supervision of the faculty. The comprehensive examination experience concludes with an oral examination. Upon successful completion of the exam, the student is considered a candidate for the degree. 

The final stage of the doctoral degree is completion of a doctoral dissertation that demonstrates the candidate’s potential to become an independent scholar, and which makes a contribution to knowledge related to some aspect of music teaching and/or learning. The topic and methodology are selected by the student, in consultation with the doctoral committee. The written proposal is subject to the approval of the committee. The dissertation research is completed independently, but in close consultation with the advisor and others, as necessary. Several weeks after the complete dissertation is drafted and distributed to the committee, there is a final oral exam, composed of a public presentation and a closed question and answer “defense” with the committee. After passing the examination the student works with the advisor and sometimes members of the committee to make any final revisions required, and deposits the completed document electronically with the Graduate School

Admissions are selective.  Applicants must meet the minimum requirements of the PhD in Music Education degree program and the minimum requirements of the Graduate School . Note that the GRE exam is  not  required. Prospective students must meet with music education faculty in person, if possible, or, if not, via video conferencing. Depending on their interest and specialty areas, applicants may be required to audition for conducting or applied music faculty. Admissions decisions made by a committee of faculty, and are based on multiple criteria, including faculty time commitments, judgment of the student’s potential for success in the program and profession, program needs, and the fit between the student and the program.  Thus, not everyone who meets minimum qualifications is admitted.

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Music Education Ph.D.

Immerse yourself in the study of music and prepare to contribute to the field as a scholar and educator.

Inspire the next generation and share your love for music. UND's Music Education Ph.D. prepares you for a leadership role in research, university teaching, or any other area of music.

Why earn a music education Ph.D.?

If you're an international student, refer to the international application process for deadlines.

Combine your passion for music with a deep dive into research and a strong foundation in teaching. UND's Ph.D. program in music helps you build advanced skills in any aspect of music.

Your Music Education Ph.D. coursework provides intensive study in the following areas:

• Music Education
• Teaching and Learning
• Foundations of Education
• Scholarly Tools in Education

Ph.D. students also choose a minor or cognate in a supporting area.

Music Education Doctoral Programs

Conduct independent, original scholarly work that contributes to knowledge in the field.

Engage in research and discover new modes of music instruction.

Apply for a teaching assistantship to qualify for a stipend.

Discuss cutting-edge music pedagogy.

UND is an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Music .

Enhance your professional skills at 60+ free workshops offered through the UND School of Graduate Studies. Our goal is to provide you with the workforce skills and job search strategies to succeed.

What can I do with a music education Ph.D.?

Anticipated job growth for postsecondary teachers

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The Ph.D. program prepares you to take on a leadership role in music education. Some Ph.D. graduates go on to teach at the university level and contribute to the field through original scholarship research. Others become leaders in public school or community music education.

Our faculty receive national and international recognition for their talents, which they bring back to the classroom to share with you. The music faculty consist of specialists in:

• Major orchestral and band instruments
• Composition
• Music education

We pride ourselves on personal attention to students, high standards and a close working relationship with the Grand Forks community.

Music Education Ph.D. Courses

MUSC 503. Psychological Foundations of Music Learning. 3 Credits.

An in-depth study of the psychological processes of music learning. On demand.

MUSC 507. Foundations of Music Education. 3 Credits.

A comprehensive investigation of the historical and philosophical foundations of music education. On demand.

MUSC 509. Trends in Music Education. 3 Credits.

An overview of historical and contemporary trends in music education. On demand.

MUSC 598. Research in Music Education. 3 Credits.

An introduction to qualitative and quantitative research methodology relative to music education. On demand.

T&L 539. College Teaching. 3 Credits.

Explores learning styles and teaching styles, the components and responsibilities involved in college teaching, methods of teaching and motivating students, and current issues related to instruction in the college classroom.

EFR 510. Participatory Qualitative Research Methods. 3 Credits.

Qualitative researchers engage in systematic inquiry and direct collaboration with individuals and communities to explore highly contextualized phenomenon with the purpose of action or change. Qualitative methods are naturalistic, highly contextual, participatory and relational. Exploring the lived experiences and perspective of others requires attention to relationships, rapport and trust among all participants. Students will learn fundamental community-based and participatory methods of data collection: observations, interviewing, as well as data analysis and writing up qualitative findings following case study design. On demand.

Leaders in Music

Students are encouraged to be expressive with their art and to participate in the music program's community.

Connect with the faculty you'll work with at UND or discover additional education opportunities.

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Music Education

Doctor of philosophy (phd) in music education, doctor of philosophy (phd) in music education with an emphasis in music therapy.

The PhD in music education and PhD with in music education with an emphasis in music therapy focuses on the preparation of music administrators, teachers, therapists, and researchers who are able to think abstractly, generalize knowledge, carry on research and apply research results to their areas of specialization, and communicate effectively both orally and in written form. Additional scholarly studies are recommended in appropriate fields in social sciences, humanities, arts, education, and health, among others. 

The equivalent of 3 years of full-time clinical experience as a music therapist is required as a pre-requisite for admission to the PhD in Music Education with an Emphasis in Music Therapy.

For your PhD, you will be expected to meet the following requirements, including your post-baccalaureate study from other institutions:

• 12 credits in foundation courses in music education
• 9 credits in research and data analysis courses
• 12 credits of electives in music education
• 18 credits of music coursework
• 15 credits of electives in any supporting field
• Completion of written and oral preliminary exam
• Completion of thesis or final project
• Completion of final oral examination

Requirements for the Music PhD

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7 PhD in Music Degree Programs That Should Be on Your Postgrad List

Author: Hugh McIntyre

Date: March 13, 2018

Reads: 8,418

Hugh McIntyre is a music journalist, social media expert, and marketing professional based in both NYC and LA. He has spent a decade writing about music and the music industry, primarily for Forbes , but also for Billboard, Fuse, MTV, and many more. He has also managed social media for Grammy-winning musicians, Olympic medal-winning athletes, and CEOs. FULL BIO

Table of Contents

• Introduction

1. Juilliard

4. columbia, 5. northwestern, 6. new england conservatory.

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For many people reading this website, the mere idea of further education beyond a bachelor’s, let alone a Ph.D. in anything is difficult to think about — but it might not be quite as far away as you’d imagine.

Becoming a doctor in any field is the highest level of schooling possible and aside from certificates and secondary offerings, there is nothing else to accomplish after that. . .at least when it comes to academic degrees. (See our recent roundup of the best music schools for master’s degrees here .)

It’s never too early to think about advancing your career with a Ph.D. in Music or a D.M.A. (Doctor of Musical Arts). Whether you’re just beginning to search for undergrad options or you’re ready to begin applying to become a doctor in whatever musical field you work in, below is a list of some of the best schools in the U.S. where you can earn such a prize…if you’re willing to put in the work and the years.

Location: New York City, NY

Of all the schools on this list, Juilliard has to be placed first for a multitude of reasons. I could spend an entire article writing about why Juilliard is the best school, especially when considering Ph.D. programs, but because of the plethora of examples why it’s also perhaps the most difficult to get into and graduate from. So keep this in mind as you read on and look for the “apply” button online.

Juilliard is by far one of the most respected names in the art world, whether it be in dancing, acting, or music. The New York City-based school has churned out some of the greatest artists of all time and the flow of talent isn’t likely to stop anytime soon, especially considering how many doctoral programs are offered at Juilliard.

It seems like there’s something for everyone at the renowned institution and there are a surprising number of graduate degrees, which can typically be in shorter supply at most schools.

Juilliard offers a D.M.A. diploma in over twenty fields and while the majority of those are only given to talented performers, there are other items available to those who want to study music beyond playing an instrument. D.M.A.s are offered for Composition and Voice, as well as over a dozen different instruments, including violin, trumpet, piano, horn, and many others.

Location: Cambridge, MA

Juilliard may be the most respected name in higher education when it comes to music but Harvard is the most respected name in higher education…period. It is known the world over and not just for one program.

At this point, the Cambridge, MA institution can afford to be picky and only the best of the best make it into those hallowed halls. That is, of course, especially true when it comes to Ph.D. programs and since there are only a few offered at the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, the competition can understandably be fierce.

Harvard currently offers the following five Ph.D.s in musical fields: Composition, Cross-Disciplinary Music Studies, Music Theory, Musicology/Ethnomusicology, and Musicology/Historical. Only five degrees might sound limited but by the time a student comes anywhere close to even considering a Ph.D., they likely already know which area of study they’re going to be interested in and Harvard’s menu is diverse enough to have something for everyone . . . or, almost everyone.

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Location: New Haven, CT

Like Harvard, Yale is one of the best-known brand names in the world when it comes to education and while you do pay dearly for the experience and the privilege of adding that well-known moniker to your resume and your LinkedIn it can certainly pay off.

Yale offers D.M.A.s in Performance, Conducting, and Composition, and when it comes to the former, there are quite a few instruments an artist can select from.

Those looking to attend the Connecticut university (which isn’t actually too close to either Boston or New York City, though it’s not so far from either that somewhat frequent visits wouldn’t be possible) should expect to be on campus for two years taking courses and working with Professors and then for the following three years they should plan on launching their careers — though there will still be a lot of work connected to Yale that ensures they eventually get their diploma.

Five years may sound like a long time (and it is, no doubt), but the degree a student will walk away with will certainly be worth it.

Interestingly, while most colleges and universities offerings Ph.D.s in anything musical seem to focus mainly on performance, Columbia doesn’t offer a single degree that involves becoming the best performer possible…at least not at the highest level.

Instead, Columbia has only a handful of Ph.D. and D.M.A.s to give away in musical verticals, including Composition and Musicology, which is itself broken down into three different categories: Historical Musicology, Ethnomusicology, and Music Theory.

Since the majority of Ph.D. students at other schools will be working solely on performing, the crowd at Columbia must be particularly interesting and it is surely responsible for turning out some of the most talented and the brightest people in musical higher education and writing.

A number of institutions offer Composition Ph.D.s but they are often traditional in nature and largely focused on working with an orchestra. Columbia has a state of the art lab where those working toward this degree can include electronic instruments into their creations, which makes the program particularly modern, and exactly what many contemporary Composers are looking for.

Location: Evanston, IL

Unlike so many other names in the educational field that offer Ph.D.s, Northwestern’s degree is actually a Doctor of Philosophy in Music. There are a number of diplomas given out which focus only on musical areas of study, even though the phrase “Doctor of Philosophy” doesn’t immediately bring to mind anything having to do with music.

The Chicago-adjacent Bienen School of Music offers Ph.D.s in the following categories: Composition and Music Technology, Music Theory and Cognition, Music Education, and Musicology. Those are four very broad topics and there’s something in there for most people.

Northwestern is a great school and while it might not have quite the name recognition of Harvard, Yale, or Juilliard (which is why those are at the top of the pile), it’s well-respected and a degree from the school is still highly coveted.

Location: Boston, MA

When talking about musical colleges in Boston, Berklee is usually top of the list . . . except for this one. Surprisingly, while dozens of master’s degrees can be earned at the school — including via its online and international locations — there aren’t Ph.D.s offered at the well-known music industry favorite . . . at least not yet.

That may come at some point in the future, but for now, when it comes to Beantown and the highest degree possible in music, the New England Conservatory rules.

This extremely selective institution is difficult to get into at any level but it becomes many times harder when it comes to doctoral studies. The program only accepts between eight and a dozen students in each field, depending on the year. Yes, that’s right, the conservatory might only allow fewer than ten applicants in at any one time — so you can imagine the rate of approval is minute.

It typically takes three years for students to finish their studies and collect their Doctor of Musical Arts diploma, and at first, everybody studies together, which is an interesting and eye-opening way of doing things.

Like many collegiate options offering musical Ph.D.s and D.M.A.s, the New England Conservatory’s degrees are primarily all about performance, and students can focus on a number of woodwinds (flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, saxophone), strings (violin, viola, violoncello, double bass, harp, guitar), piano, and so on.

Also available are degrees in Vocal Performance, Vocal Performance and Pedagogy (which is different enough to be listed separately), Composition, and Music Theory.

Location: Los Angeles, CA

In making this list, I had a number of other options to choose from that deserved to be included, as their Ph.D. and D.M.A. programs are certainly worth attending. Of course, not everything can fit on here and I thought there needed to be some West Coast representation!

UCLA only offers a pair of degrees that fit onto this list — a D.M.A. in Performance and Conducting and a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Composition — but those two fields cover a lot of ground and while they might not be a fit for everyone they’re certainly a good start. They may be perfect for someone whose interests lean more towards scoring music as a Film Composer or who just wants to live in Los Angeles and soak up the city’s growing classical scene.

One of the best things UCLA has going for it is the location, as it’s one of only a few well-known musical schools out that way. Los Angeles is a great city and it’s full of opportunity for those who want to make a living in entertainment. UCLA could be perfect for somebody who, say, wants to compose music for movies or perform for them.

It’s not all about the East Coast and schools like UCLA absolutely deserve a spot here.

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