Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Music & Health Sciences
Overview
What to expect
The Doctor of Philosophy in Music and Health Sciences offers students opportunities to conduct groundbreaking research into music and health from various neurological, psychological, physiological, and therapeutic perspectives. After completing preliminary coursework and sitting comprehensive examinations testing their general knowledge of the field, students prepare a major work of scholarship to be defended during a final oral examination.
Why it stands out
This program is an exceptionally interdisciplinary research-intensive degree in a burgeoning field. Students gain a rigorously scientific knowledge of music, drawing on the resources of a university internationally recognized as a world leader in the health sciences. The Faculty of Music is home to the Music and Health Research Collaboratory (MaHRC).
Who it's for
Advanced students who are passionate about studying music and health in depth and making an original contribution to research are ideal candidates.
Outcomes
Opportunities for study
With a PhD from the University of Toronto, students emerge as recognized experts. They will have an unparalleled understanding of their thesis subject and a broad knowledge of the field.
Opportunities after graduation
The degree qualifies graduates for a career in music and health sciences teaching and research.
Curriculum
PhD in Music & Health
- Quantitative Research Methods
- Music and Health Sciences Graduate Seminars
- Music and Health Sciences Doctoral Research Project
- Electives
Core Courses
All students study quantitative research methods (the equivalent of one full-year course) and choose an additional four half-courses (the equivalent of two full-year courses) from a list of required courses on various music and health topics. They also conduct a supervised independent research project culminating in a public seminar presentation. This project (the equivalent of one full-year course) is separate from their thesis and thesis defence.
Electives
Electives (the equivalent of two full-year courses) are chosen from the offerings of the Faculty of Music or a related department with the approval of the candidate’s advisor.
Other Requirements
Students must complete a comprehensive exam, an oral defense of the thesis proposal, and a thesis consisting of original research in Music and Health Sciences.
Admission Requirements
Applicants must hold a four-year bachelor’s degree in music or music therapy or with a musical credential (for example, an Associate Diploma from the Royal Conservatory of Music or Toronto (ARCT)). They must also hold a master’s degree in music, music therapy, or a health field such as kinesiology, neuroscience, or speech-language pathology).
For complete requirements, see the Application Materials page.
How to Apply
Complete information on how to apply can be found on the Graduate Applying page.
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