Music Education Ph.D.

The Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Music Education at the University of North Dakota is designed to immerse students in the study of music, preparing them to contribute to the field as scholars and educators. This program inspires the next generation and shares a love for music, preparing students for leadership roles in research, university teaching, or other areas of music.

Program Details

• Program type: Doctoral Degree
• Format: On Campus
• Estimated time to complete: 3-4 years
• Credit hours: 90

Why Earn a Music Education Ph.D.?

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

The program allows students to:

• 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. The University of North Dakota is an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Music. Students can enhance their professional skills at over 60 free workshops offered through the UND School of Graduate Studies, which provides workforce skills and job search strategies to succeed.

What Can I Do with a Music Education Ph.D.?

The Ph.D. program prepares students 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. The music faculty consists of specialists in:

• Major orchestral and band instruments
• Voice
• Piano
• Composition
• Conducting
• Music education

The faculty prides itself on personal attention to students, high standards, and a close working relationship with the Grand Forks community.

Music Education Ph.D. Courses

Some of the courses included in the program are:

• Psychological Foundations of Music Learning (MUSC 503): An in-depth study of the psychological processes of music learning.
• Foundations of Music Education (MUSC 507): A comprehensive investigation of the historical and philosophical foundations of music education.
• Trends in Music Education (MUSC 509): An overview of historical and contemporary trends in music education.
• Research in Music Education (MUSC 598): An introduction to qualitative and quantitative research methodology relative to music education.
• College Teaching (T&L 539): 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.
• Qualitative Research Methods (EFR 510): Introduces students to qualitative research methods in the social sciences, equipping them with the skills for conducting qualitative research.

Application Deadlines

• Fall: August 1
• Spring: December 1 International students should refer to the international application process for deadlines.

Job Outlook

The projected job outlook for postsecondary teachers through 2034 is 7% (much faster than the average for all occupations), with a median annual salary of $84,000, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

University of North Dakota: A Summary

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Overview:

The University of North Dakota (UND) is the state's oldest and largest university, offering over 225 accredited on-campus and online degrees. It is known for its commitment to student leadership and fostering a welcoming and inclusive campus environment.

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Services Offered:

UND provides a range of support services for students, including:

Diversity and Inclusion:

UND values diverse perspectives and actively promotes a sense of belonging for all students.

TRIO Programs:

Support for first-generation and Pell-eligible students to help them succeed at UND.

Pride Center:

Resources and support for the LGBTQ+ community on campus.

Disability Resources:

Equal opportunities for qualified students with disabilities to participate in all UND activities.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

UND emphasizes student leadership and provides opportunities for students to make a positive impact. The campus offers a vibrant community with various student organizations and activities.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Academic Excellence:

UND offers a wide range of highly accredited programs, including specialized fields like Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operations, Data Science, and Forensic Science.

Affordability:

UND consistently ranks among the best for educational quality and affordability.

Career Outcomes:

UND prepares students for successful careers with strong emphasis on practical skills and real-world experience.

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Academic Programs:

UND offers a diverse range of academic programs, with notable strengths in:

Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operations:

A cutting-edge program in a rapidly growing industry.

Data Science:

A high-demand field with strong career prospects.

Economics:

A solid foundation for careers in law, business, and other fields.

Forensic Science:

Immersive program with hands-on experience in forensic labs.