| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-09-01 | - |
| 2025-01-01 | - |
| 2025-04-01 | - |
Program Overview
This PhD program in Music Technologies at Sussex University focuses on the creation and exploration of new musical forms and technologies. Students will develop practical skills in instrument making, studio production, and emerging media, while researching and writing original dissertations that contribute to the field. The program provides access to state-of-the-art facilities and collaboration with leading researchers in music technology.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
At Sussex, music technologies are defined in the broadest sense, encompassing instrument making, studio production, and the development of new musical forms in new media such as augmented realities or virtual worlds. This PhD program is designed for individuals interested in the study, development, and performance of new musical technologies.
Objectives:
The program aims to equip students with the skills and knowledge to:
- Produce a portfolio of original creative work that advances practice and knowledge of music technologies.
- Write a 20,000-40,000-word dissertation demonstrating original research. Students will be part of the Experimental Music Technologies Lab, which conducts research in new music technologies, and work closely with the Sussex Humanities Lab. Students will have the opportunity to work with leading researchers in the field, including Dr. Chris Kiefer, Senior Lecturer in Music Technology, who highlights the interdisciplinary nature of music technology research.
Other:
The program emphasizes the interdisciplinary nature of music technology research, drawing connections to fields such as mathematics, signal processing, and instrument building.
University of Sussex
Overview:
The University of Sussex is a leading, research-intensive university located in Brighton, UK. It is known for its commitment to academic excellence and its focus on creating a vibrant and diverse campus community.
Services Offered:
The university offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Accommodation:
On-campus housing options are available for students, with various types of accommodation to suit different needs and budgets.Student Support:
The university provides comprehensive support services to students, including academic advising, career counseling, and mental health resources.Careers:
The university offers career services to help students find internships, graduate jobs, and develop their career skills.Library:
The university library provides access to a vast collection of books, journals, and online resources.IT Services:
Students have access to a range of IT services, including computer labs, wireless internet, and online learning platforms.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at the University of Sussex can expect a vibrant and engaging campus experience. The university offers a wide range of clubs, societies, and sports teams for students to join. The campus is located in a beautiful setting, with easy access to the city of Brighton.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Research Excellence:
The university is renowned for its research excellence, with a strong focus on innovation and impact.World-Class Faculty:
The university boasts a world-class faculty, with experts in a wide range of fields.Vibrant Campus Community:
The university has a diverse and welcoming campus community, with a strong sense of belonging.Location:
The university is located in Brighton, a vibrant and cosmopolitan city with a thriving arts and culture scene.Academic Programs:
The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:
Arts and Humanities:
English, History, Philosophy, Music, Theatre, and more.Social Sciences:
Politics, Sociology, Economics, Psychology, and more.Science and Engineering:
Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Computer Science, and more.Business and Management:
Business Administration, Finance, Marketing, and more.Entry Requirements:
- Degree Requirements: A Merit (an average of 60% overall) in a Masters degree and an upper second-class (2.1) undergraduate honours degree are typically expected.
- Subject-Specific Requirements: Your qualification should be in a subject related to your chosen area of research. You will also be considered for this degree if you don’t have the academic qualifications required, but can show evidence of equivalent professional experience.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- IELTS (Academic): High level (6.5 overall, including at least 6.0 in each component). IELTS scores are valid for two years from the test date. You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course.
- Alternative English Language Qualifications:
- Cambridge Advanced Certificate in English (CAE): 169 overall, including at least 162 in each skill.
- Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE): 169 overall, including at least 162 in each skill.
- LanguageCert International ESOL SELT: High level (International ESOL SELT B2 with a minimum of 39 in each component)
- Pearson PTE Academic: High level (62 overall, including at least 59 in all four skills)
- TOEFL (iBT): High level 88 overall, including at least 20 Listening, 19 in Reading, 21 in Speaking, 23 in Writing.
- Country Exceptions: If you are a national of one of the countries listed below, or if you have recently completed a qualification equivalent to a UK Bachelors degree or higher in one of these countries, you will normally meet our English requirement. Note that qualifications obtained by distance learning or awarded by studying outside these countries cannot be accepted for English language purposes.
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Australia
- Bahamas
- Barbados
- Belize
- Canada**
- Dominica
- Grenada
- Guyana
- Ireland
- Jamaica
- New Zealand
- St Kitts and Nevis
- St Lucia
- St Vincent and the Grenadines
- The British Overseas Territories
- Trinidad and Tobago
- United Kingdom
