Doctor Of Philosophy In Music Performance

The Doctor of Philosophy (Music Performance) programme focuses on both research and performance, whether as a soloist in solo performances or as the lead performer in collaborative settings. It fosters doctoral-level creativity through performance while enhancing critical inquiry skills in research. The Institute of Music at UCSI is globally recognized, ranking among the Top 42 for performing arts in the QS World University Ranking 2024. Students have the opportunity to learn from world-class performers and become part of a thriving community of over 1,000 music graduates the institute has produced.

Academic Requirements

1. Master’s Degree accepted by the HEPs Senate; OR
2. Other qualifications equivalent to a Master's Degree, as accepted by the HEPs Senate; OR
3. Other qualifications equivalent to a Master's Degree in a related field recognised by the Government of Malaysia

Music Audition Requirements

Performance Audition (Auditions are conducted at least 1 month before the start of the semester)

• Submit a portfolio of work of professional standards and curriculum vitae demonstrating at least 5 years of performance experience.

Entrance audition:

• A recital programme lasting 25 to 30 minutes.
• Performance by memory as per concert practice.
• The level of performance must meet the attainment of a master’s degree graduation level and show potential to develop throughout the PhD programme.
• For repertoires with piano parts, an accompanist is needed. A request for accompanist from the Institute can be made and a fee will be charged. Recording submissions without piano accompaniment will be rejected.

Proposal Requirements

Candidates are required to submit the following:

• One thesis proposal
  • with information on the scope of research, literature review, and supporting references. The proposal has to be between 500-1,000 words. The focus of the research covers all areas of performances, literature, and composers. Focus on repertoires performed in Recitals 1 and 2 is encouraged.
  • The following components are required:
    • Background of Study
    • Significance of Study
    • Research Aims/Goals
    • Research Methods
    • Research Questions
    • Reference List
• Two creative work proposals
  • Recital 1 & 2
    - proposed list of repertoires programme to be performed.
  • Lecture-Recital
    - with information on the scope of the literature or performance to be studied and presented. Literature review and supporting reference to be included. The proposal has to be between 250-500 words.

English Language Requirements

For Local Students:

• Linguaskill: 154
• IELTS: Band 5.0
• Cambridge English Qualification and Test: 154
• TOEFL: 42
• Pearson Test of English: 47

* If your native language or the prior degree studies is not in English, proof of English language proficiency is required when submitting your application. If the English language is the medium of instruction from the previous institution, supporting document is required.

For International Students:

• Cambridge English Qualifications and Tests (B1 Preliminary, B2 First, C1 Advanced C2 Proficiency, Linguaskill Online): 154
• Cambridge English Qualifications and Tests (OET)(Conventional/Online): 200
• IELTS: Band 5.0
• TOEFL IBT: 40
• TOEFL ESSENTIALS (ONLINE): 7.5
• PTE Academic / Academic (online): 47
• MUET: Band 3.5

Course

• Music Research Methods

Graduation requirements

• 3 Creative Work Projects

  - Recital 1 (50-60 minutes performance)
  - Recital 2 (50-60 minutes performance)
  - Lecture-Recital (60 minutes performance and 2,000 words document)

• 1 Research Project
  - 1 thesis (20,000 - 40,000 words)

Semester 9

• Submission and Viva