Graduate Studies in Music - PhD Guidelines

Doctor Of Philosophy (PhD) in Music

Aims

To qualify for the PhD, the candidate is required:

1. to carry out independent research involving a comprehensive study of a scope and size that could normally be expected to be completed in the equivalent of three years’ full-time study; and
2. to make a substantial contribution to learning and demonstrate a capacity to relate the research done by the candidate to the broader framework of the discipline or disciplines within which it falls at the standard internationally recognized for the degree in the relevant discipline or disciplines.

Duration of the program and supervision

The degree of Doctor of Philosophy must extend over a period of not less than two years and not more than four years full-time. It is undertaken by a course of full-time research under the supervision of at least three people, one of whom must be a full—time member of the University’s academic staff. Supervision arrangements for PhD candidates are negotiated on an individual basis and must be approved, in conjunction with a suitable study program, by the Prescribed Authority.

Eligibility for the program

Applicants seeking admission to the PhD program must hold a Bachelor degree with first or upper second class Honours of an Australian University, or other such qualification as the Prescribed Authority determines, being a qualification that is equivalent or superior to such a degree. For more detailed information, students should consult the university's PhD Rules.

Structure of the program

For a PhD in the humanities or social sciences, candidates are required to submit a written thesis of not more than 100,000 words. The thesis must make a substantial contribution to learning and demonstrate a capacity to relate the research done by the candidate to the broader framework within which it falls, at the standard internationally recognised for the degree in the relevant discipline or disciplines. Applying the same principles and standards, in a PhD in Music an applicant may propose a research project which is comprised of artistic work relevant to the field of study (for example through performance, appropriately documented, or a folio of creative work) and a written Dissertation. A thesis in this context means, in addition to written material, performances, and audio and video recordings submitted by the candidate for the purposes of examination.

Other requirements of the program

Candidates in the PhD program of study are required to present regular work in progress seminars in the designated Graduate Seminars for discussion and critical response of their peers, staff, and other invited guests. Candidates for the PhD degree will be required to participate in, and contribute to other scheduled seminars, tutorials, conferences, or other activities conducted by the Program in a manner which is considered to be appropriate to the advancement of the candidate’s program of study by supervisors and the Convenor of the Program.

Method of Examination

Research shall be examined by assessment of the thesis, together with an oral or performance or written examination (or any combination of the above), related to the thesis.

Application for the Doctor of Philosophy

Applications for the Doctor of Philosophy are made directly through the Research and Scholarships Office, using the Application Form for Postgraduate Admission. Prospective applicants are strongly advised to consult the Graduate Studies Advisor .

The Board of Studies will consider each application which, in addition to the information requested below, provides a proposal for a research project in an appropriate form which outlines the nature of the proposed work to be undertaken. The Board will expect an application to include the theoretical and/or historical frame of reference for the proposed study, plus an account of the applicant’s intentions which articulate how the project will proceed. The Board will expect reference to, or examples of, the proposed research and a proposed methodology. Where the proposal includes artistic practice, the Board will expect evidence in the form of a recital and/or folio of performances, folio of creative work or such materials as will demonstrate the quality of the applicant’s artistic work. The Board will also require evidence of the applicant’s capacity to satisfactorily complete written research material.

Admission Requirements

Admission to the PhD in Music is primarily based on the Board's approval of an applicant’s research proposal. As well as providing the details requested on the "Application for Admission to a Graduate Program of Study" form, the following details will also be taken into consideration:

1. an outline of the research proposal (see guidelines below)
2. where appropriate, a folio of creative work in other media (CDs, videos, etc) or a recital and/or relevant performance folio.
3. a curriculum vitae
4. copies of transcripts of previous academic records
5. personal details as required on the Application Form

Assessment of Applications

Preliminary assessment and shortlisting of applicants is made by relevant academic staff. Selected applicants will be invited for interview and further discussion of the research proposal. Applicants who are unable to attend an interview may be required to provide additional material and/or be interviewed by telephone.

Applicants must satisfy the Board that they have the educational preparation and capacity to pursue study at the relevant level. In addition, applicants must satisfy the Board that they have a clear understanding of the amount and level of work involved, and that they are able to devote the time and effort to the proposed research program.

The Board, together with the Prescribed Authority, will determine whether the program is both suitable and within the capacities of the School, and confirm the availability of human and material resources necessary for the completion of the proposal. The Board will also consider the availability of appropriate supervisors.

Prior Consultation

Prospective applicants are urged to consult with the relevant Heads of Departments and the Graduate Studies Convenor prior to lodgement of an application. The Board may consult with short-listed applicants in regard to the refinement of the applicant’s research proposal.

Guidelines for Preparation of Research Proposal

The research proposal prepared by the candidate should be a clear and concise outline of the objectives of the proposal and the means by which the goals will be achieved. The Board of Studies looks for research proposals which demonstrate that, with the advice of the supervisors, the applicant has the capacity to translate the ideas into an appropriate study program, with potential outcomes appropriate to PhD level study. Where the project contains both a written component and artistic practice, both elements need to be addressed in terms of research aims, significance and outcomes. The following general advice may assist in the preparation of a proposal.

Aims of the Research

• What are the general aims of the research program proposed? Please outline the topic of your proposed study, the nature of your research project and its anticipated outcomes.
• How does the proposal relate to your prior practice and experience?

Methods and resources

• What methods and/or approaches do you intend to use?
• What expertise will be developed, and what specific resources will be needed?
• What is distinctive about your approach to your topic?

Context

• What is the wider context for the proposed study program? Please indicate how you see your proposed work in the wider context of practice in your field by referring to specific examples of precedents, traditions, and other relevant practices.
• For theoretical components, indicate the specific thematic or cultural focus of your proposed study, and/or the relevant historical period of the study
• What reference material has been relevant to the preparation of your research proposal (e.g. provide a bibliography, etc.)

International students

International students who are applying for PhD must follow the same requirements as for students resident in Australia (please refer to the relevant procedures and guidelines outlined above). Where consultation and interview/audition is not possible, the Board of Studies may require additional material or information about the proposal.