Pedagogy
The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) with a major in music education attracts outstanding students who have an interest in research and wish to conduct research in the areas of music teaching, the psychology of music learning, and early childhood music. The purpose
of the degree is to instruct students in methods of scientific inquiry so that they can engage in research to make new discoveries of human music behaviors. Students will learn investigative and experimental techniques (quantitative and qualitative) and their application to the improvement of music education practice. To pursue this type of research, familiarity with psychology, research design and analysis, and measurement in conjunction with computer science is necessary. Upon completion of the Ph.D. in music education, students will be able to successfully pursue a research agenda that will contribute to the growth of the music education knowledge base. The equivalent of at least three years of full-time study beyond an earned master's degree is typically required, not including the dissertation. All work must be completed within eight years of the beginning of doctoral study. A minimum of two consecutive semesters of study during the regular academic year must be completed as a full-time student. Applicants must provide evidence of superior scholastic ability, a broad musical and educational background, and the capacity of profit from advanced study in music education. In addition, all applicants must have earned a master's degree at an accredited institution and have completed a minimum of two years of successful music teaching at an elementary or secondary, public or private school.
For graduate curricula, please refer to the Graduate Bulletin (pdf).