Musicology PhD at Northwestern University

Programme overview

The PhD in Music (Musicology) focuses on Western music studies, with students encouraged to take ethnomusicology courses. Admission is selective and the department is small.

Faculty: Bienen School of Music | Department: Musicology | Duration: 2 years residency (18 courses beyond MM) plus dissertation | Study mode: full-time | Location: Evanston, IL, United States

What you will study

18 courses beyond the MM, three per quarter over two years of residency, including a cognate area in the humanities or social sciences. Requirements include proficiency in two European languages, a comprehensive examination in music history and theory, and a dissertation.

Career pathways

PhD students present at regional, national and international conferences and have gone on to fellowships, awards and academic placements.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Graduate School applicants (applies to Bienen School of Music PhD programmes applied through The Graduate School): a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution or non-U.S. equivalent (completed before enrolling); two letters of recommendation; transcripts; Academic Statement and Personal Statement; application fee; international applicants submit English proficiency test scores. GRE/GMAT only if the programme requires it.

Requirements published at faculty level.

Tuition is charged per credit, so the total depends on the modules you register for each year. Current fees are listed in the official fee schedule.

Graduate applications for 2026-27 open September 15, 2026; deadlines vary by programme. The Graduate School application fee is $95 and nonrefundable, paid by credit or debit card.

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