PhD in Composition Admission 2024-25, Year Wise Comparison for Students Placed, IIRF Ranking, Gallery

PhD In Composition About

A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Composition is an advanced degree program that focuses on developing expertise in the theory and practice of music composition. Students in this program typically engage in rigorous study of composition techniques, aesthetics, and music history, and conduct original research in their field of interest.

The program generally takes four to six years to complete and includes coursework in music theory, music history, and research methods. In addition to coursework, PhD candidates will often participate in composition seminars and workshops, where they will present their compositions and receive feedback from peers and faculty.

Throughout the program, students will work closely with a faculty advisor to develop a research project and write a dissertation. The dissertation typically consists of an original composition or series of compositions accompanied by a written analysis and theoretical framework.

Graduates of a PhD in Composition program are prepared to pursue careers in music academia, as well as in the music industry as composers, arrangers, or producers. They may also choose to continue their research in the field as postdoctoral fellows or independent scholars.

PhD In Composition Highlights

Entrance Exam for PhD In Composition

The entrance exam for a PhD in Composition program may vary depending on the institution offering the program.

Some programs may require a composition portfolio, while others may require standardized tests like the GRE or music theory placement exams.

It is best to check with the specific program for their entrance exam requirements.

Eligibility Criteria for PhD In Composition

Admission to a PhD in Composition program typically requires a master's degree in music composition or a related field, as well as a strong portfolio of original compositions.

Some programs may also require applicants to have a certain level of proficiency on a musical instrument. In addition, most programs require letters of recommendation, transcripts, and a statement of purpose.

Duration of PhD In Composition

The duration of a PhD in Composition program varies depending on the institution, but it generally takes four to six years to complete.

PhD In Composition Selection Criteria

The selection criteria for a PhD in Composition program typically includes academic credentials, the quality of the composition portfolio, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose. Some programs may also require an interview or audition.

PhD In Composition How to Apply

To apply for a PhD in Composition program, applicants will need to apply through the institution's website or admissions portal.

This will typically include transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a composition portfolio.

Applicants should also check with the specific program for any additional requirements, such as entrance exams or auditions.

It is recommended to start the application process early, as it can take several months to compile all of the necessary materials.

PhD In Composition Application Process

1. The application form and process for a PhD in Composition program varies depending on the institution offering the program.
2. Applicants can typically apply online through the institution's website or admissions portal.
3. The application process generally involves submitting transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a composition portfolio.
4. Some programs may require entrance exams or auditions.
5. It is best to check with the specific program for their application requirements and deadlines.

PhD In Composition Application Fees

Syllabus of PhD In Composition

The syllabus for a PhD in Composition program varies depending on the institution offering the program, but it generally includes coursework in music theory, music history, research methods, and advanced composition techniques. Students will also work on developing a research project and writing a dissertation, which typically consists of an original composition or series of compositions accompanied by a written analysis and theoretical framework.

Job Scope after PhD In Composition

Graduates of a PhD in Composition program can pursue a variety of careers in music, including academic positions in music theory or composition, as well as careers as professional composers, arrangers, or producers. The salary for these positions varies depending on the location and type of position, but the median salary for a music composer in the United States is around $50,000 per year.

Career Opportunities after PhD In Composition

Graduates of a PhD in Composition program are prepared to pursue careers in music academia, as well as in the music industry as composers, arrangers, or producers. They may also choose to continue their research in the field as postdoctoral fellows or independent scholars. Some specific career opportunities include:

University professor of music composition or theory

Composer for film, TV, or video games

Arranger or orchestrator for musical ensembles or performers

Music producer or sound engineer

Top Colleges for PhD In Composition

Some top colleges for a PhD in Composition program include:

Admission Process for PhD In Composition Entrance Exam

• Application for the entrance exam 
• Result declaration
• Entrance pass scholar calling for the interview and document verification
• Provisional registration for pre-Ph.D. course work classes
• Coursework classes shall be attended as scheduled by the University
• Course work examination
• Result declaration of coursework
• Submission of synopsis ( 2 spiral bound copies with soft copy of synopsis)
• Departmental research committee meeting scheduled by the University
• A registration letter shall be issued
• Research work started by scholar
• 6 progress reports shall be submitted
• Soft copy thesis submit
• plagiarism report check by the university
• Finally after the plagiarism report soft copy thesis shall be sent to experts for evaluation
• After the consent of experts pre-submission, one set spiral binding shall be submitted
• After the successful presentation of the pre-submission thesis, 3 copies of hard bound thesis shall be  submitted
• Viva shall be conducted as scheduled by the University, Degree Awarded.

Document Required for PhD In Composition Entrance Exam

1. Documents (10th onwards)
2. Aadhar Card/Pan Card, Caste Certificate
3. Migration Certificate (Original)
4. NOC (From Organization/ Institute/ University)
5. Affidavit (undertaking)
6. Guide Willing
7. Assignments
8. Synopsis (3 copies), Progress Report
9. Library No Dues
10. Lab Letter
11. Thesis Hard copy (Spiral binding)
12. No Dues, Thesis (6 hard copies)
13. Affidavit -Submission (on Rs 100 Stamp and Notary Attested)
14. C.D Soft copies (Thesis & Synopsis)
15. Conference Certificate - 2
16. Research Papers -2 (with ISSN No.)
17. summary (page limit 20-30) -3 Copies 
18. Plagiarism Report Below 10%

FAQs About PhD In Composition 

Q.1 - What is the procedure for Ph.D. Admission to the University?

ANSWER: - The Ph.D. and M.Phil. programs of prestigious Universities are conducted and guided strictly as per the provisions and regulations dictated by the UGC (Minimum Standards and Procedure for Award of Ph.D./M.Phil. Degrees) (1st Amendment) Regulations, 2018 and subsequent amendments. The entire procedure for admission to the research programs encompasses a Research Entrance Exam (RET) and then an Interview/Viva Voce. The performance of a candidate in the RET is given 70% weightage, and the remaining 30% weightage is given to his/her performance at the Interview.

Q.2 - What are the modes of pursuing M.Phil. & Ph.D. programs at the University?

ANSWER: -Both the full-time and part-time modes are available at the University for pursuing its Ph.D. programs and only the full-time mode is available for the M.Phil. program in the desired subjects/fields. These highly-qualitative and prolific research programs are available in a rather broad range of fields/subjects. At University, the minimum time duration of the M.Phil. and Ph.D. programs is 1.5 Years and 3 Years, respectively, in general.

Q.3 - Are the Ph.D. and M.Phil. Degrees granted by any University valid abroad?

ANSWER: -Yes, of course. If the University is properly recognized under section 2(f) of the UGC Act of 1956 and is a prestigious member of the AIU (the Association of Indian Universities). It is an M.Phil. and Ph.D. degrees granted in various fields/subjects are duly valid across India and the world.

Q.4 - What are the main eligibility criteria for participating in the University Research Entrance Exam (RET)?

ANSWER: -The following are the main eligibility conditions for participating in the RET: - A rigorous Master’s Degree in the proposed subject/field obtained from any recognized university/institution located in India or abroad, with a minimum of 55% marks in aggregate or an equivalent grade. Candidates belonging to SC/ST/OBC/Differently-abled categories are given a 5% relaxation in respect of this eligibility criterion. Candidates with an M.Phil. degree in the proposed field/subject, or have qualified for the UGC (JRF) Examinations/ NET/ SET/ SELT, etc., will be allowed to appear directly for the interview, without appearing in the RET. Impressive academic records, and any prior experience in research work, will be given additional advantages.

Q.5 - What relaxations are granted to the reserved categories for Ph.D. Admission to the University?

ANSWER: - Candidates belonging to the categories of SC/ST/OBC (Non-Creamy layer)/Differently-Abled, and so on, are given all relaxations prescribed by the Govt. of India and the UGC. These relaxations are provided in the form of 5% reduced marks for them at post-graduation and the minimum qualifying marks at RET. Thus, candidates belonging to these categories only need to score a minimum of 45% marks at RET, to qualify for the final interview.

Q.6 - What will be the pattern of RET?

ANSWER: - The syllabus or pattern of RET consists of subject-specific matters, research methodology, and aptitude (covering logical reasoning, numerical ability, analytical reasoning, statistics, etc.).Thus, RET will contain a total of 70 multiple-choice questions (MCQs).

Q.7 - Are M.Phil. Holders/UGC- NET (including JRF)/ UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/ SLET/ GATE exempted from appearing at RET?

ANSWER: - Yes. The holders of M.Phil. degrees in their respective fields/subjects are made exempt from appearing in RET. The same is the situation in cases of aspiring candidates who have qualified exams like UGC-NET (including JRF)/ UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/ SLET/ GATE, etc.

Q.8 - How is the application fee paid?

ANSWER: - The Application Fee (i.e. the fee for getting participating in RET) can be paid online or offline, like the Application Form. Payment Modes: DD (in Favor of the University) / NEFT/ Cash Deposit.

Q.9 - Do working candidates require to obtain NOC from employers for pursuing research at any University?

ANSWER: - Yes, necessarily. Working Professionals who are interested in research at any University are required to obtain the NOC (No Objection Certificate) from their respective employers, in order to avert any intrusion ever during the entire doctoral course.

Q.10 - Does an M.Phil. holder require to undergo Ph.D. coursework?

ANSWER: - Yes. M.Phil. holders are again required to undergo the coursework in Ph.D. at some Universities. However, their prior knowledge in the field/subject will be very supportive to them for learning and performing efficiently during the Ph.D. program.

Q.11 - Can I pay the yearly program/course fee in installments?

ANSWER: - Yes, you can pay the yearly course fee as many as in two installments, but well within the yearly session.

Q.12 - Does Any University provide any scholarship or stipend to pursuing scholars?

ANSWER: - Yes, of course. Many Universities offer scholarships as well as stipends to meritorious and talented candidates who undertake research studies at the University. Scholarships are granted to those candidates who come under the top 21 by scoring higher marks in RET and interviews. And, stipends are provided to those scholars who also give lectures to UG or PG students at the University, in addition to doing their Ph.D. coursework. The amount of the monthly stipend will be commensurate with the candidate’s qualifications and capabilities and may go up to Rs. 20,000.

Q.13 - What other many facilities are provided to research scholars at the University Campus?

ANSWER: - All necessary and constructive resources, amenities, and facilities are offered by well-established and prestigious universities to research scholars in various streams/subjects. These facilities include the following - spacious and peaceful study rooms, erudite and well-experienced academicians and research experts, Wi-Fi and diverse IT devices, state-of-the-art laboratories, well-stocked libraries, lavish R&D amenities, separate amenities for lodging and foods for male and female candidates, peaceful and constructive environment within the university campus, and many other comforting and convenient facilities and services.