PhD Music

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The University of Lincoln offers research programmes at MPhil and PhD levels in a range of music specialisms within an engaged team. Research students can benefit from a variety of training opportunities to develop their research skills.

Proposals are welcomed for research and practice-based PhDs. Proposals are welcomed in ethnomusicology, musicology, composition, music analysis, music practice, and musical theatre.

Research students are invited to join one of the School's thriving research groups and participate in its Critical Encounters Research Series alongside academic staff and other postgraduate students.

How You Study

Due to the nature of postgraduate research programmes, the majority of time is spent on independent study and research. Students will have regular meetings with their academic supervisors, but the frequency of these will vary depending on individual requirements, subject area, staff availability, stage of the programme, and whether the student is following a full-time or part-time programme.

You will receive monthly 1-hour supervision with your supervisory team. These are arranged with the supervisors every month. Part-time students will receive supervision every two months.

Prioritising Face-to-Face Teaching

At the University of Lincoln, we strive to ensure our students’ experience is engaging, supportive, and academically challenging. Throughout the Coronavirus pandemic, we have adapted to Government guidance to keep our students, staff, and community safe. All remaining Covid-19 legal restrictions in England were lifted in February 2022 under the Government’s Plan for Living with Covid-19, and we have embraced a safe return to in-person teaching on campus. Where appropriate, face-to-face teaching is enhanced by the use of digital tools and technology and may be complemented by online opportunities where these support learning outcomes.

We are fully prepared to adapt our plans if changes in Government guidance make this necessary, and we will endeavour to keep current and prospective students informed.

How You Are Assessed

Students are expected to write an 80,000-word thesis on a subject agreed upon with their proposed supervisor prior to admission to the College.

Students completing a practice-based PhD will be required to produce a substantial body of art and a thesis of between 25,000 to 40,000 words.

The thesis is examined by two examiners and includes a Viva Voce (oral) examination.

Fees and Funding

For eligible students, there are more ways than ever before to fund your postgraduate study, whether you want to do a taught or research course. For those wishing to undertake a Master's course, UK students can apply for a loan as a contribution towards the course and living costs. Loans are also available to those who wish to undertake doctoral study. The University offers a number of scholarships and funded studentships for those interested in postgraduate study.

Entry Requirements 2023-24

First or upper second class honours degree and a Master's degree. International students will also require the English Language at IELTS 6.5 with a minimum of 5.5 in each part.

We encourage candidates with equivalent professional experience and unusual Pathways to apply. A writing sample in order to evaluate the student's academic potential may be required in certain circumstances.

Interviews

All suitable applicants will be invited for an interview, either in person or via an online platform.

How You Study

Due to the nature of postgraduate research programmes, the majority of time is spent on independent study and research. Students will have regular meetings with their academic supervisors, but the frequency of these will vary depending on individual requirements, subject area, staff availability, stage of the programme, and whether the student is following a full-time or part-time programme.

You will receive monthly 1-hour supervision with your supervisory team. These are arranged with the supervisors every month. Part-time students will receive supervision every two months.

Research Areas

The key to success on a postgraduate research programme is to find a research topic that you are passionate about and identify a supervisory team that has expertise in this area. The first thing that all prospective students should do is directly contact a member of staff from one of these areas that you feel is best aligned with your chosen research area to discuss the application process further. The School’s research areas include:

• Ethnomusicology
• Musicology
• Composition
• Music analysis
• musical practice
• Musical theatre

How You Are Assessed

Students are expected to write an 80,000-word thesis on a subject agreed upon with their proposed supervisor prior to admission to the College.

Students completing a practice-based Ph.D. will be required to produce a substantial body of art and a thesis of between 25,000 to 40,000 words.

The thesis is examined by two examiners and includes a Viva Voce (oral) examination.

A doctoral qualification can be the capstone of academic achievement and often marks the beginning of a career in academia or research. A research programme provides the opportunity to become a true expert in your chosen field, while developing a range of valuable transferable skills that can support your career progression. A research-based degree is also the most direct pathway to an academic career. PhDs and research degrees are a great chance to expand your network and meet diverse people with similar interests, knowledge, and passion.

The University’s Doctoral School provides a focal point for Lincoln’s community of researchers, where ideas and experiences can be developed and shared across disciplines. It also offers support and training to help equip you for both academic and non-academic careers.