Interdisciplinary Studies; Ph.D.
Design your own path. The Ph.D. in Interdisciplinary Studies lets you bridge multiple research areas at the Schulich School of Music, combining methods and perspectives from different disciplines in a single program of study.
Applicants must choose one program as their primary research focus and apply directly to that program. On the application form, you can indicate that you are interested in interdisciplinary studies and list your additional areas of interest. Please note that “Interdisciplinary Studies” is not a standalone program—it is an option within your Ph.D. application for your main research topic.
Before applying, identify the program that will serve as your primary focus and reach out to the Area Coordinator of that program to discuss the additional disciplinary expertise you want to develop. Explore the faculty profiles to find a potential supervisor, then contact them to discuss your research interests. Once you have established this connection, you can submit your application for admission.
If you are admitted, a special committee will be set up to reflect the interdisciplinary focus of your project and retain a principal advisor. At admission, this committee will also outline your program of study: in principle, ten seminars or courses if you are entering in PhD 1, and five seminars or courses if you are entering in PhD 2. The selected seminars must reflect the interdisciplinary character of your project and include opportunities to acquire any related skills. Additional coursework may be required to develop these skills.
By the end of your first semester, your committee will establish the format, content, and procedures of your Comprehensive Examination to reflect the interdisciplinary scope of your research. The committee will serve as the examiner for this exam.
At the same time, expectations for your thesis proposal will be set in coordination with the committee. Expectations for the thesis itself—including its defense and final submission—will follow the norms and regulations of the Department of Music Research and the University.
Progress Reports and Degree Audit Forms
Graduate Progress Report Guidelines, Graduate Student Progress Tracking Report and Audit Forms can be found HERE
