Graduate Music Programs

Overview

Graduate Programs

The Department of Music at UC Davis offers four graduate programs. Three lead to the degree Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.), in musicology, ethnomusicology, or composition and theory. Musicology focuses on stylistic and critical study in all historical periods, the acquisition of research skills, writing for publication, professional development, and application of critical theory. Ethnomusicology covers training in the theory, fieldwork, ethnography, transcription/analysis, and intellectual history of the subject. Composition and theory emphasizes analysis of tonal and post-tonal music, and original inventive composition by way of various approaches and methods. Students may elect to receive a Master of Arts degree en route to the Ph.D.

The Master of Arts degree in conducting is designed for students who expect to conduct the major repertoire during their professional careers. In addition to developing practical technical skills, students study issues of performance practice and musical analysis, and gain experience in the preparation of performance materials.

Apply online through the Office of Graduate Studies. Applications are due January 5. All incoming Ph.D. students are offered, at a minimum, a multi-year fellowship and teaching assistantship package from the Department of Music, providing tuition, fees, health insurance, and, as of fall 2023, a minimum of $26,186 stipend/salary per year (the entire package for CA residents is approximately $46,186). Admitted students are also considered for competitive university-wide fellowships.

GRE scores are not required.

UC Davis CA residency requirements for graduate students are HERE. First year graduate students who are US citizens but not CA residents must complete the CA residency process before the end of their first quarter.

For more information, contact faculty graduate advisors,  Beth Levy regarding the Ph.D. in ethnomusicology and musicology, Mika Pelo regarding the Ph.D. in composition and theory, Christian Baldini regarding the master’s degree in conducting, or staff graduate coordinator, Marian Bilheimer.

What does UC Davis have to offer? Read more about our graduate programs.

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