Overview

The Musicology programme at Stanford University provides a rigorous academic environment for doctoral students aiming to master historical and systematic musical research. This PhD track is designed to transform talented graduates into independent scholars capable of producing significant original contributions to the field.

During the initial three years of the programme, students focus on completing a comprehensive suite of required coursework. This period is dedicated to building a deep theoretical foundation and preparing for the qualifying and special area examinations that mark the transition to advanced doctoral research.

Following the successful defense of a dissertation proposal, which is integrated into the special area examination, candidates shift their focus to primary research.

Why Musicology at Stanford University?

Students benefit from the exceptional resources of the School of Humanities and Sciences, including the Braun Music Center and extensive music libraries. The department fosters a multidisciplinary atmosphere, encouraging collaboration with areas such as Ethnomusicology, Composition, and Music Theory.

The institution provides world-class facilities for research and performance, such as the Bing Concert Hall and the Center for Computer Research in Music and Acoustics. These venues and research centres offer a unique backdrop for scholars to explore the intersections of music history, science, and performance practice.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 21180 per semester
National fee: USD 21180 per semester
Local fee: USD 13240 per semester

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is structured to guide students from foundational seminars to independent dissertation work. Modules may include:

Musicology
Music History
Ethnomusicology
Music Theory
Research and Writing

Careers with Musicology

Graduates from this programme are prepared for high-level roles within academia and the broader cultural sector. The rigorous training in systematic research and critical analysis equips students for various professional paths in the arts and humanities.

Common career destinations for doctoral graduates include positions as university professors, researchers, and archivists. Additionally, alumni may find opportunities in music publishing, cultural consultancy, or leadership roles within international arts organisations and museums.

Programme Structure

Courses included:

CCRMA Colloquium

Fundamentals of Computer-Generated Sound

Psychophysics and Music Cognition

Intermedia Workshop

Music, Computing, Design I: Art of Design for Computer Music

Audio Signal Processing Part I: Spectrum Analysis

Audio Signal Processing Part II: Digital Filters

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 24 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-20 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-09 00:00:00

More details

Applications must be completed and filed by the second Tuesday in December

Language

English

TOEFL^® IBT

100

Schedule TOEFL®

Credits

45 alternative credits

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Stanford, United States

Disciplines

Musicology View 292 other Masters in Musicology in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

100

Schedule TOEFL®

Other requirements

General requirements

Applicants must hold, or expect to hold before enrollment at Stanford, a bachelor’s degree from a U.S. college or university accredited by a regional accrediting association.
Applicants from institutions outside the U.S. must hold the equivalent of a U.S. bachelor’s degree from a college or university of recognized standing. See minimum level of study required of International applicants.
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) scores are required of all applicants whose first language is not English.
International students enrolled must be able to read English with ease, understand rapid idiomatic English as used in lectures and group discussions.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

42360 USD / year

≈ 42360 USD / year
Out-of-State

42360 USD / year

≈ 42360 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

42360 USD / year

≈ 42360 USD / year

Additional Details

per quarter

Living costs

Stanford

United States

1100 - 1600 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

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Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Musicology.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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