Research Degrees (MPhil/PhD) Music
| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-04-24 | - |
| 2023-10-10 | - |
| 2024-01-16 | - |
Program Overview
The program emphasizes original research, advanced research skills development, and knowledge advancement in music scholarship. Students receive individualized supervision and participate in research training, coursework, and teaching opportunities. The program prepares graduates for careers in academia, music performance, composition, and other music-related fields.
Program Outline
Objectives:
- To conduct original research on music as a cultural phenomenon, including historical, analytical, and ethnomusicological perspectives.
- To develop advanced research skills, including fieldwork, interviewing, archive research, performance, transcription, and analysis.
- To contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field of music scholarship.
- To prepare students for careers in academia, music performance, composition, or other music-related fields.
Description:
The program welcomes students with diverse backgrounds in music, ethnomusicology, and other relevant disciplines. Individualized attention is provided to each student based on their background, research interests, and proposed project.
Structure:
The program consists of a four-year full-time study, divided into four stages:
- Year 1: Research training, including coursework in research methods, ethnomusicology, and language training.
- Year 2: Data collection, which may involve fieldwork or archival research.
- Year 3: Completion of a full draft of the thesis and continuation of writing-up.
- Year 4: Completion and submission of the thesis for examination.
Assessment:
Students are assessed through a variety of methods, including:
- Oral presentation: This includes a 30-minute presentation on the research project, followed by a discussion.
- Thesis examination: The completed thesis is evaluated by two external examiners, who assess the student’s originality, research contribution, and writing quality.
Teaching:
The program provides students with individual supervision from a dedicated committee and access to department research seminars. Research training and coursework are available in the first year, and students can also participate in teaching opportunities depending on their progress and departmental needs.
Other:
- Fees:
- Home students: £4,860 per year (full-time), £2,430 per year (part-time).
- Overseas students: £22,490 per year (full-time), £11,245 per year (part-time).
- Funding: Several scholarships and research funding opportunities are available to support students in their research endeavors.
- Employment: Graduates often pursue careers in academia, music performance, composition, and other music-related fields.
Home student fees (full-time): £4,860 per year Home student fees (part-time): £2,430 per year Overseas student fees (full-time): £22,490 per year Overseas student fees (part-time): £11,245 per year Please note that fees go up each year.
School of Oriental and African Studies, London (SOAS)
Overview:
SOAS, the School of Oriental and African Studies, is a public research university in London, specializing in the study of Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. It is renowned for its diverse academic programs, world-class research, and commitment to global understanding.
Services Offered:
Student Life and Campus Experience:
Key Reasons to Study There:
Global Focus:
SOAS offers a unique opportunity to study the cultures, languages, and societies of Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.World-Class Faculty:
The university boasts a distinguished faculty of experts in their respective fields, providing students with access to cutting-edge research and knowledge.Diverse Student Body:
SOAS attracts students from all over the world, creating a vibrant and multicultural learning environment.Research Opportunities:
SOAS is a leading research institution, offering students opportunities to engage in research projects and contribute to the advancement of knowledge.Academic Programs:
SOAS offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:
Arts:
History of Art & Archaeology, Music, Media & CommunicationLanguages, Cultures, and Linguistics:
African Languages, Cultures, and Literatures, China & Inner Asia, Japan & Korea, Near & Middle East, South Asia, South East Asia, Translation StudiesSocial Sciences:
Anthropology & Sociology, Development Studies, Economics, Finance & Management, Gender Studies, Law, Politics & International Studies, Religions & PhilosophiesOther:
SOAS is a member of the University of London and is located in the heart of Bloomsbury, London. The university has a strong commitment to social justice and global citizenship, and its research and teaching contribute to a better understanding of the world.
Entry Requirements:
Research Degrees (MPhil/PhD) Music
The Department of Music welcomes applications from postgraduate students from diverse backgrounds, both from the UK and overseas. While most applicants are accomplished musical performers and researchers, each individual is evaluated based on their background and academic achievements. Here's a breakdown of the general entry requirements:
Academic Qualifications:
- Master's degree: Typically, applicants should possess a Master's degree, or equivalent, in Music, Ethnomusicology, or another relevant discipline.
- Alternative Qualifications: Applicants with extensive experience as performers, teachers, or within the music industry, may be considered even if they don't have a Master's degree.
Supporting Documents:
- References: One reference is required, preferably from someone who has personal knowledge of your academic and/or musical work (e.g., performance, composition).
International Applicants:
In addition to the above, international applicants must also meet the following requirements:
Further Considerations:
- Project Viability: Ensure your research project can be reasonably completed within four years (or part-time equivalent), taking into account any potential difficulties related to your chosen research area.
- Subject Knowledge and Skills: The department will assess your background and experience to determine if you have the necessary subject knowledge and skills to conduct your research. You may be advised to complete a Master's degree first if deemed necessary.
- Communication Skills: Your written English communication skills will be evaluated.
- Referee Assessment: Your referee will be asked to confirm your ability to carry out this research and provide specific feedback based on your prior academic and/or musical work.
