What is meant by the "PhD" degree title?

The doctoral program in music education at the UW takes a research-based approach to issues relating to music teaching and learning. Similar to other PhD programs offered across the campus, the PhD in music education and its culminating dissertation is a reflection of this focus on the creation of new knowledge and its real-world application to the music teaching profession.

What can I do with a PhD?

In addition to gaining new skills and considering new perspectives on music teaching, doctoral students typically aspire to positions of significant leadership in the music education profession. In many cases, graduates seek teaching positions at the college or university level.

How many years does it take to complete the PhD program?

A doctoral degree is generally 90 credits beyond the baccalaureate, 60 of which must be taken at the University of Washington. While the amount of time taken to complete the doctorate often differs for each student, as a general guide we recommend that students set aside three full years for doctoral work. This includes two years of coursework and one year dedicated to completion of the dissertation.

What specific courses will I be required to take?

Each student's doctoral program is developed individually depending on his or her prior experience and professional goals. For that reason, participation in specific courses varies from student to student. Typically, students enroll for one or more advanced music education courses each term. Topics may include music psychology, development, instructional techniques, repertoire, evaluation or other related areas.

There are, however, some courses that are common to all doctoral students' programs.

• MUSED 501, 502 and 503 is a course sequence designed to develop students' skills in research and writing.
• MUSED 575 is a weekly seminar in which current topics in music teaching and learning are featured.

Students also complete a minimum of 9 credits in a major cognate area. Selection of a major cognate is carried out in consultation with the supervisory committee chair. Cognate areas may include specializations such as conducting , ethnomusicology, composition, sociology, psychology or an array of other concentrations within or outside the School of Music.

Are there other requirements other than courses?

Each doctoral student is required to give at least two professional presentations as part of their doctoral program. These may include research-based lectures, clinics, workshops or papers presented in conjunction with regional, national or international events.

s there a foreign language requirement?

There is no foreign language requirement for the Ph.D. in Music Education.

What happens when the coursework is done?

Upon completion of coursework, students take a general examination. The general exam includes both a written and oral component and is intended to be a comprehensive assessment of the student's expertise in the chosen areas of concentration. As part of the general exam, students submit a proposal for the culminating experience of the PhD program, the dissertation.

What is a dissertation?

The PhD dissertation is a written document that makes an original and substantial scholarly contribution to the field of music education.

Through active participation in faculty-led and individual projects, plus substantial individual mentoring from members of the supervisory committee, the program at the UW is designed to help students acquire skills and experiences that lead them smoothly into the dissertation experience.

What is a Supervisory Committee?

The Supervisory Committee--the Committee Chair, in particular--guides the student in selection of coursework, identification of the cognate area and development of the dissertation. Students usually form their committees after the first year of coursework. Often, a student will first select a Committee Chair who will then assist in identifying additional committee members. Committees typically consist of 4 faculty members, though larger committees may be formed if appropriate.

Can I get assistance before I select a committee?

Definitely. Any of the Music Education faculty can assist with questions or concerns and are always available for advising. Students meet regularly with faculty members from the outset of the PhD program.

Can any of my Master's work count toward a doctoral degree?

Up to 30 credits of Master's work can be counted toward the doctoral degree. Additional credits, if taken at the University of Washington, may count at the discretion of your doctoral committee chair.

Is teaching experience necessary?

As teaching skill is consiered as part of the admissions process, it is necessary that PhD applicants demonstrate success as a professional music educator. In most cases, this means several years of experience as a school music teacher.

Is financial assistance available?

Support in the form of scholarships, assistantships and fellowships is available. Awarding of financial support is highly competitive. The application deadline for financial awards is December 31.

How can I apply?

In addition to the application materials requested by the UW Graduate School, the following items should be submitted:

• Complete transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate study.

• Three letters of recommendation from individuals familiar with your musical, professional, and academic work.

• Statement of professional and educational goals (usually 1-2 typewritten pages).

• Graduate Record Exam (GRE) scores (general exam only).

• Sample of scholarly writing (for example, a published article or graduate level course paper).

• Videotaped sample of your teaching.

• TOEFL scores of at least 580 (paper) or 237 (computer).

Though not required, a campus visit is strongly recommended for all prospective doctoral students.

How can I find out more information?

For general information on application and registration, contact Ana Alvernaz, School of Music Graduate Advisor, Room 116A, (206) 543-1239, alvernaz@u.washington.edu.

For information on the Music Education program, contact one of the Music Education faculty through Hidaat Ephrem, Music Education Office, Room 31, (206) 543-5204, hidaat@u.washington.edu