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Department of Music

UC Davis
One Shields Ave.
Davis, CA 95616

530.752.5537 phone
530.752.0983 fax

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Department of Music > Academic Programs > Emphases > Composition/Theory Emphasis
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Composition/Theory Emphasis

Language
Musicology, ethnomusicology, and composition/theory each have specific language requirements, but, broadly speaking, students are required to pass an exam in two languages.

Examinations
Upon successful completion of the examinations, the student is advanced to candidacy.

Advanced standing

Students who have already completed a master's degree or taken graduate-level courses in the same field at another institution may receive up to 24 units of credits. The decision is made by the graduate committee when the student is accepted into the program.

Dissertation

Candidates are required to present and successfully defend a dissertation in a final public oral examination. The doctoral dissertation is to be an original composition of scope and substance and an original theoretical or analytical essay. The dissertation is supervised by the faculty and approved by a committee named by the Graduate Division. The final copies should conform to the requirements described by the Office of Graduate Studies.

Length of study

Typical time to complete the Doctor of Philosophy degree is five years for students holding a bachelor's and three years for students holding a master's. Candidates must be in residence for at least six quarters.

Core Course Work

(12 units total)

MUS 210A. Proseminar in Music (Theory and Analysis) (4)
MUS 210B. Proseminar in Music (Musicology and Criticism) (4)
MUS 210C. Proseminar in Music (Ethnomusicology) (4)

Emphasis Course Work

(36 units total)

MUS 203. Music Composition (4)
MUS 207. Advanced Computer Music (4)

At least one:

MUS 221. Topics in Music History (4)

At least two:

MUS 222. Techniques of Analysis (4)