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Students
Tuition Fee
Start Date
Medium of studying
Duration
Program Facts
Program Details
Degree
PhD
Major
Digital Media | Music | Music Technology
Area of study
Arts
Course Language
English
About Program

Program Overview


The DMA in Music with a concentration in Interdisciplinary Digital Media at Arizona State University combines music, digital media, and computer science, providing students with advanced skills in digital sound and experimental media. The program fosters creative expression, research, and collaboration, preparing graduates for diverse careers in the music and media industries.

Program Outline


Degree Overview:


Music (Interdisciplinary Digital Media), DMA


Overview:

The DMA program in music with a concentration in interdisciplinary digital media allows students to explore the vast intersection of music and technology. This unique collaboration between the School of Music, Dance and Theatre and the School of Arts, Media and Engineering provides students with access to state-of-the-art facilities, groundbreaking research, and faculty expertise in both music and media arts.


Objectives:

  • Develop advanced skills in digital sound and experimental media.
  • Enhance understanding and application of music theory and history within the context of digital media.
  • Foster creative expression and individual voice through interdisciplinary projects.
  • Cultivate research skills and engage in pioneering research in the field of interdisciplinary digital media.

Description:

The program offers a diverse and challenging curriculum that goes beyond traditional music coursework. Students engage in numerous opportunities to create digital sound and experimental media projects, keeping them on the cutting edge of media and digital culture. With access to collaborative labs, expert faculty, and the renowned ASU Symphony Orchestra, students are able to translate their digital music knowledge into practice.


Key Features:

  • Interdisciplinary curriculum: Blend of music, digital media, and computer science.
  • State-of-the-art facilities: Access to dedicated labs and technical resources.
  • Renowned faculty: Collaborate with leading experts in music and media arts.
  • Experimental approach: Encourage creative exploration and innovative projects.
  • Research opportunities: Contribute to groundbreaking research in the field.

Outline:


Program Requirements:

  • Total credit hours: 90
  • Core coursework:
  • Music Theory Core Area (12-19 credit hours)
  • Music History Core Area (6-15 credit hours)
  • Concentration (33 credit hours):
  • MTC 523 Advanced Composition (6 credit hours)
  • MTC 723 Advanced Composition (6 credit hours)
  • Arts, Media and Engineering coursework (21 credit hours)
  • Electives: 9-11 credit hours
  • Research: 9 credit hours (MTC 792 Research)
  • Culminating Experience: 12 credit hours (MTC 799 Dissertation)
  • Additional requirements:
  • Completion of diagnostic exams in musicology and music theory
  • Up to 30 credit hours from a previously awarded master's degree may be used

Course Schedule:

The program follows a standard semester schedule with courses offered in fall and spring semesters. Students are expected to take a full-time course load throughout the program.


Modules:

The program curriculum is divided into several modules, including:

  • Music Theory: Advanced topics in harmony, counterpoint, and form.
  • Music History: Explore music history from diverse perspectives.
  • Composition: Advanced composition techniques and experimental media integration.
  • Interdisciplinary Digital Media: Engaging with digital sound, media, and technology.
  • Music Technology: Hands-on experience with music software and technology.

Module Descriptions:

Each module typically consists of lectures, seminars, workshops, and individual projects.


Music Theory:

Students delve deeply into advanced theoretical concepts, applying them to various musical styles and contexts.


Music History:

Courses explore diverse musical traditions from historical and cultural perspectives.


Composition:

Students develop their compositional skills through individual instruction and mentorship, incorporating digital media and emerging technologies into their creative expression.


Interdisciplinary Digital Media:

Students engage with the latest digital media technologies, exploring their application in music, sound art, and interactive experiences.


Music Technology:

Students gain hands-on experience with music software, hardware, and recording techniques, learning to effectively integrate technology into their musical endeavors.


Assessment:


Assessment methods:

  • Coursework assignments: Regular assessments through essays, compositions, projects, and presentations.
  • Performance opportunities: Showcase creative work through recitals, concerts, and collaborations.
  • Research projects: Evaluation of research proposals, progress updates, and final dissertation.
  • Comprehensive exams: Written and oral exams to assess music theory and history knowledge.

Assessment criteria:

  • Technical proficiency: Demonstrate mastery of compositional techniques and digital media tools.
  • Creativity and originality: Develop a unique artistic voice and engage in innovative exploration.
  • Critical thinking and analysis: Apply analytical skills to musical and technological concepts.
  • Communication and collaboration: Effectively present ideas and collaborate with peers and faculty.

Teaching:


Teaching methods:

  • Individual instruction: One-on-one classes with composition faculty for personalized guidance.
  • Group workshops: Collaborative engagement with peers and faculty on interdisciplinary projects.
  • Seminars and lectures: Expert-led discussions on music theory, history, and media technologies.
  • Guest lectures and masterclasses: Engage with renowned artists, composers, and researchers.

Faculty:

The program boasts a distinguished faculty with expertise in music, composition, media arts, and computer science. Students benefit from personalized mentorship and guidance from leading academics and practicing artists.


Unique approaches:

  • Interdisciplinary collaboration: Fosters communication and collaboration between artists, composers, and engineers.
  • Experimental and innovative curriculum: Pushes boundaries and embraces new approaches to music creation.
  • Cutting-edge technology integration: Provides access to state-of-the-art facilities and technologies.

Careers:


Potential career paths:

  • Composer for film, video games, or television
  • Installation artist
  • Sound designer
  • Music technology researcher
  • Music software developer
  • University professor
  • Community arts administrator

Career opportunities:

Graduates are well-prepared for diverse career paths in the music and media industries. With their advanced skills and interdisciplinary knowledge, they can:

  • Create original scores for film, video games, and interactive media.
  • Design and develop innovative sound technologies and software.
  • Conduct research and contribute to the advancement of music and media technologies.
  • Teach and inspire future generations of musicians and artists.

Career outcomes:

The program empowers graduates to become creative leaders and innovators in the music and media landscape. They are equipped to make a significant impact through their artistic endeavors, technological advancements, and contributions to the field.


Other:

  • The program encourages students to pursue external opportunities such as internships, research collaborations, and artistic residencies.
  • Students have access to performance and exhibition spaces to showcase their creative work.
  • The program fosters a close-knit community where students can collaborate and learn from one another.
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About University
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Masters
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Arizona State University: A Comprehensive Overview


Overview:

Arizona State University (ASU) is a top-ranked research university located in the greater Phoenix metropolitan area. It is known for its innovative approach to education, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines. ASU is recognized for its commitment to inclusivity, serving learners at all stages of life and fostering a diverse and welcoming community.


Services Offered:

ASU provides a comprehensive range of services to support student success, including:

    Academic Support:

    Tutoring, advising, and academic success resources.

    Financial Aid:

    Scholarships, financial aid programs, and tuition assistance.

    Student Life:

    Housing and dining, clubs and activities, health and wellness services, and transportation.

    Career Services:

    Job and career resources, internship opportunities, and career counseling.

Student Life and Campus Experience:

ASU offers a vibrant and engaging campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can participate in a wide array of clubs, organizations, and events, fostering personal growth and development. The university's diverse student body creates a rich cultural environment, promoting global perspectives and intercultural understanding.


Key Reasons to Study There:

    Top-Ranked Programs:

    ASU boasts numerous top-ranked programs, including 82 programs ranked in the top 25 nationally, with 37 in the top 10.

    Innovative Learning Environment:

    ASU embraces a flexible and personalized approach to learning, allowing students to customize their academic journey.

    World-Class Faculty:

    Students benefit from instruction led by renowned professors and researchers, many of whom are leaders in their fields.

    Global Impact:

    ASU is consistently ranked among the top universities for global impact, demonstrating its commitment to addressing global challenges.

    Diverse and Inclusive Community:

    ASU fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment, embracing students from all backgrounds and promoting a sense of belonging.

Academic Programs:

ASU offers over 800 degree programs across a wide range of disciplines, including:

    Undergraduate:

    More than 400 undergraduate degrees in fields such as engineering, journalism, business, sustainability, nursing, education, and more.

    Graduate:

    Over 450 graduate degrees, including master's and doctoral programs.

Other:

ASU is known for its commitment to research and innovation, with a strong focus on addressing real-world challenges. The university is also a leader in sustainability, promoting environmental responsibility and social justice.

Total programs
1434
Average ranking globally
#58
Average ranking in the country
#40
Admission Requirements

Entry Requirements:


Applicants:

  • Academic background: Applicants must have earned a U.S. bachelor's degree or higher from a regionally accredited institution or the equivalent of a U.S. bachelor's degree from an institution in another country and officially recognized by that country.
  • Minimum GPA: Applicants must have achieved a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 semester hours or 90 quarter-hours of their first bachelor's degree program, or applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.

International Applicants:

  • All international applicants must fulfill the requirements mentioned above for U.S. applicants.
  • English Proficiency: Applicants whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency.
  • To meet English proficiency requirements, students should have a TOEFL iBT score of at least 80; an IELTS overall band score of at least 6.5; or a Pearson Test of English score of at least 60.

Additional Documents:

  • Graduate application and application fee
  • School of Music, Dance and Theatre application, including a resume and personal statement
  • Official transcripts
  • Prescreening portfolio
  • Accepted tests and minimum scores:
  • TOEFL iBT: 80
  • IELTS: 6.5 overall band score
  • Pearson Test of English: 60
  • the above requirements apply to all international applicants, regardless of their origin.
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