DPhil in Music (Composition) at University of Oxford

Programme overview

A research doctorate in which composers create a body of new compositional work, collaborate with performers, other artists and academic researchers, and reflect critically on their work through a written submission. It provides a wide range of research skills and in-depth expertise in the chosen field, and is awarded for a substantial original contribution.

What you will study

Individually supervised research and composition; themes depend on the applicant's own creative practice (past projects have included Messiaen's colour chords, language prosody in composition and Luigi Nono's late electroacoustic works). Transfer of status requires a portfolio of two contrasted compositions and a related essay; the final submission is a portfolio of three to six compositions (with at least one large-scale work) plus a critical writing submission or dissertation, defended in a viva.

Career pathways

Graduates build compositional careers and connections with performing musicians; some pursue academic careers through postdoctoral positions, lectureships or conservatoire teaching, and careers in concert and performance administration are also favoured.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

A master's degree with a good pass or distinction in music or related fields and a first-class or strong upper second-class UK undergraduate degree with honours in music or related fields, or equivalent; entrance is very competitive and most successful applicants have a first-class degree or equivalent. Relevant professional experience may be considered as a substitute for academic attainment. Applicants are normally expected to hold a master's in music before the DPhil, or may first take an Oxford MSt in music. US bachelor's applicants normally need a minimum GPA of 3.6/4.0 (most successful applicants 3.7). No GRE/GMAT. Application includes three referees (academic preferred), transcripts, a research proposal (maximum 2,000 words, split between a composition proposal and a critical writing proposal), one written essay (maximum 2,000 words) and a portfolio of two to three compositions with recordings (combined duration 15-25 minutes). Interviews are normally held (about 30 minutes, with two interviewers from the Faculty of Music). English (higher level, international applicants whose first language is not English): IELTS Academic 7.5 overall with at least 7.0 in each component; TOEFL iBT 110 overall (Listening 22, Reading 24, Speaking 25, Writing 24); C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency 191 overall with 185 per component; Oxford Test of English Advanced 165 overall with 155 per component. Final application deadline for 2027-28 entry: 12:00 midday UK time on 5 January 2027.

Domestic applicants: GBP 15,030 a year (2027/28). Home fee, full-time Source

International applicants: GBP 39,300 a year (2027/28). Overseas fee, full-time Source

Intake: 10 October 2027

Duration: 3-4 years full-time; 7-8 years part-time

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