The Doctor of Philosophy degree with a major in music is granted by the Graduate School. Candidates for the Ph.D. in music should also refer to the Graduate School section of this catalogue. All courses applied toward the degree must be courses accepted by the Graduate School..

A substantial background in music and liberal arts is required. Two emphases are available: historical musicology and theory. The appropriate master of arts curriculum is basic to each Ph.D. emphasis. Graduate course requirements for the Ph.D. are adapted to the needs and research interests of the individual student. A minimum of 60 post-baccalaureate units is required.

Foreign Language Requirements

Students are required to demonstrate a reading knowledge by passing an examination in German and one other foreign language chosen by the student from among French, Italian or Latin. The language requirement for the M.A. degree may be applied toward the Ph.D. Doctoral language requirements should be passed as early as possible, but, at latest, during the fourth semester of course work. If for the purpose of dissertation research an additional language or research tool is needed, the appropriate examination must be passed prior to the qualifying examination.

Screening Procedure

Before the completion of 16 units of graduate work at USC and with the approval of the department chair, students (with the exception of Ph.D. candidates in musicology who did not receive their M.A. degrees in musicology from USC) must be interviewed by the Graduate Committee of the School of Music. Continuance in course work will be contingent upon approval of the committee. Ph.D. candidates in musicology who did not receive their M.A. degrees from USC must take the M.A. Comprehensive Examinations in Historical Musicology in lieu of the Graduate Committee interview. Continuance in course work will be contingent upon passing these examinations.

Historical Musicology Emphasis

In addition to the 30 units for the M.A. in music history and literature, a minimum of 26 units of course work is required plus 794ab Dissertation. Students should consult their guidance committees to devise appropriate courses of study

Music Theory Emphasis

In addition to the 28 units for the M.A. in music theory, 32 units are required as follows: MUTC 599, 633ab, 634ab, MUHL 581, 582; 12 units of electives; and MUTC 794ab Dissertation.

NEXT SECTION