Music (PhD and MPhil)

Program Overview

The PhD and MPhil in Music at the University of York combine creativity and academic research in a research-based program. Students engage in independent research under expert guidance, exploring a wide range of music areas, including musicology, composition, performance, and music technology. The program emphasizes both academic rigor and artistic innovation, preparing graduates for careers in academia, research, and the music industry.

Program Outline

PhD and MPhil in Music at the University of York

Degree Overview:

• Main Objectives: Combine creativity and innovation with academic study, develop key skills for a future career in the field, academia, or research.
• Program Format: Research-based, involving independent research under expert guidance.
• Combines academia with creativity and innovation.
• Provides expert research guidance from supportive staff.
• Two programs offered: PhD and MPhil (duration may vary).
• Full-time or part-time options available.
• Key Feature: Emphasis on both creativity and academic research.

Outline:

• Program Content:
• Covers a wide range of areas within music, including:
• Historical, cultural and critical musicology
• Composition (acoustic and electronic)
• Performance (contemporary and historical)
• Music analysis
• Music education
• Music psychology and cognition
• Music AI
• New audio technologies
• Includes interdisciplinary projects and collaborations.
• Program Structure:
• Research-driven
• Independent work in an academic environment
• Regular meetings with research supervisor
• Participation in research events
• Program schedule: Three semesters per year (January, April, September)

Assessment:

• Assessment Methods:
• Performance projects (for performance pathway)
• Composition projects (for composition pathway)
• Written thesis (for thesis pathway)
• Critical writing accompanying projects
• Portfolio presentation
• Assessment Criteria: Depends on the chosen pathway and supervisor agreement.

Teaching:

• Teaching Methods: Individual supervision, thesis advisory panel support, research events.
• Faculty: Specialists in various music fields; supervisors match based on research interests.
• Unique Approach: Encourages creativity and scholarship in equal measure.

Careers:

• Potential Career Paths: Higher Education, Performance, Music Research, Music Education, Music Technology.
• Program Outcomes: Develop academic, creative, and practical skills, professional standard of academic research.
• Dedicated Career Support: Offered by the University's careers team.

Other:

• Research Clusters:
• Contemporary Music Research Cluster
• Musical Cultures and Communities Research Cluster
• Music, Science and Technology Research Cluster
• UNESCO Creative City of Media Arts: York provides access to international markets and opportunities.
• Variety of Ensembles: Allows for participation in performance opportunities.
• Funding: Available; explore Arts and Creative Technologies funding opportunities.
• Supervision: Offered by experts, weekly or fortnightly meetings during semester time.
• Facilities: Access to Sir Jack Lyons Concert Hall, Rymer Auditorium, recording studios, practice facilities, historical and world instrument collection.
• Distance Learning Option: Available for those relocating after starting the program.