Doctor of Musical Arts

The Doctor of Musical Arts at Waikato emphasises performance and research. Dive into musical works of artistic and creative integrity, complemented by a thesis showcasing your own independent research.

Points and Duration

• The total number of points to gain this qualification: 360 points
• The expected duration of full-time study: 3 years

Locations

• The study location where the qualification is offered: Hamilton

Area of Study

• This qualification can be studied under the School of Arts and the School of Graduate Research.

Start Dates

• This qualification can be started in Trimester A (March) and Trimester B (July)

Why Study the Doctor of Musical Arts?

If you're passionate about musical performance, the Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) is the doctoral degree for you. If your interests relating to music are more in the areas of composition, research-based musicology, multimedia work, music technology, or electroacoustic music, then consider enrolling in the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) instead.

While working towards your Doctor of Musical Arts at Waikato, you'll spend half your time doing performances based on your research, and the other half putting your written thesis together. You'll perform every week, and during these performances, you'll demonstrate to your supervisor what you've learned from your research. At Waikato, your DMA supervisors are leading musicians, and you'll be able to use a state-of-the-art performing arts venue for your practical lessons.

Degree Information

Entry Requirements

To enter, Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) students must have completed a MMus (Performance) with First or Second Class Honours (Division 1) or equivalent, comply with the postgraduate entry regulations of the University of Waikato, and audition successfully on an applied instrument or voice.

Fees and Scholarships

• Estimated fees for domestic students: $7,640 - $8,113 per year
• Domestic tuition fees are indicative only and may change.
• There are additional fees and charges related to enrolment.
• Scholarships are available; visit the Scholarship Finder for more information.

Career Paths

The Waikato DMA equips you with the skills to transform your passion for music into a career. Potential career paths include:

• Solo artist
• Chamber or orchestral musician
• Accompanist
• Recording artist
• Repetiteur Alternatively, you can apply your skills in radio or print music journalism. If teaching appeals to you, the DMA also prepares you for roles such as:
• Performer-academic in the tertiary sector
• Instrument or vocal teacher

Research Topics

In the DMA program, you can select a research topic that aligns with your interests. Previous student topics have included:

• Composers: Exploring New Zealand cellist and composer Arnold Trowell, and New Zealand composer John Ritchie.
• Musical Composition in Performance: Investigating J.S. Bach's use of variation form in Lutheran chorales.
• Music Education: Examining the application of ICT in the music classroom, focusing on tools and trends in New Zealand secondary schools.
• Cultural Music Traditions: Studying the repertoire and composition of Māori waiata and puoro in relation to the Kīngitanga (King Movement) from 1912 to 2008.
• Technology in Music: Developing a mouse-driven interface for virtual stringed instrument controllers.

Scholarships and Prizes

Visit the Scholarship Finder for information about possible scholarships.

PhD Research Opportunities

Browse available PhD or Doctoral opportunities, research areas, and potential supervisors.

Student Testimonials

• Students praise the unique culture of the Music Department, the supportiveness of the lecturers, and the holistic approach to their development.
• The direct communication between lecturers and students is valued, allowing for easy access to help and guidance.
• The diversity of classmates and the inspiring backgrounds they come from are highlighted as a positive aspect of the program.
• The people around them, including classmates and lecturers, are considered the highlight of their degree, providing a supportive and diverse environment.

University of Waikato

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Overview:

The University of Waikato is a public research university located in Hamilton, New Zealand. It is known for its strong research focus, particularly in areas like environmental science, Māori studies, and technology. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines.

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Services Offered:

The University of Waikato provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:

Accommodation:

On-campus accommodation options include halls of residence, apartments, cottages, and studios.

Library:

The university library offers extensive resources, including books, journals, databases, and online learning materials.

Student Support Services:

The university provides various support services, such as academic advising, career counseling, health and wellbeing services, and financial aid.

Sport and Wellbeing:

Students can participate in a variety of sports clubs and activities, as well as access health and fitness facilities.

Work-Integrated Learning:

The university incorporates work-integrated learning opportunities into its bachelor's degree programs, providing students with practical experience.

Scholarships:

The university offers a wide range of scholarships to support students financially.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

The University of Waikato offers a vibrant student life with numerous opportunities for students to get involved. Students can join over 70 student clubs and sports, participate in social events, and engage in community activities. The university has three campuses, each with its unique character and facilities.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Strong Research Focus:

The University of Waikato is ranked #1 in New Zealand for research, with a focus on areas like environmental science, Māori studies, and technology.

Flexible Degree Structures:

The university offers flexible degree structures, allowing students to tailor their studies to their individual needs and interests.

Work-Integrated Learning:

All bachelor's degree programs incorporate work-integrated learning opportunities, providing students with practical experience.

Vibrant Student Life:

The university offers a vibrant student life with numerous opportunities for students to get involved.

Beautiful Campuses:

The university has three campuses, each with its unique character and facilities.

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Academic Programs:

The University of Waikato offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Arts and Humanities:

English, History, Languages, Māori Studies, Philosophy, Theatre Arts

Business and Economics:

Accounting, Finance, Management, Marketing, Tourism

Education:

Early Childhood Education, Primary Education, Secondary Education

Engineering:

Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering

Health Sciences:

Nursing, Psychology, Sport and Exercise Science

Law:

Law

Science:

Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics

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Other:

The University of Waikato is committed to sustainability and has a strong focus on environmental issues. The university also has a strong connection to the local community and actively engages in community outreach programs.