Overview
The Doctor of Philosophy (Music Performance) programme places emphasis on both research and performance at its core either as soloist in solo performance or as the primary performer or soloist in collaborative setting. This programme develops doctoral-level creativity through performance and skills of critical enquiry in research. The Institute of Music at UCSI is well-known for its Top 42 ranking in the world for performing arts in the QS World University Ranking 2024. Learn from some of the world’s best performers and join the fraternity of over 1,000 music graduates the institute has created to date.
About the Programme
Mode of instructions
The programme is conducted entirely in English. It is essential that all candidates are able to speak, read, and write fluently in English.
Entry Requirements
Candidates may be admitted into the programme by meeting all the academic, language, music or audition, and proposal requirements below. Additional documentations such as prior experiences in the field and recommendation letters are required.
Academic Requirements
- Master’s Degree accepted by the HEPs Senate; or
- Other qualifications equivalent to a Master’s Degree, as accepted by the HEPs Senate; or
- 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.
Pass an 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, accompanist is needed. 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, literatures, and composers. Focus on repertoires performed in Recital 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.
- Recital 1 & 2
Commencement of the Programme for International Students
Successful applicant will be able to proceed with the programme once the visa requirement is approved and received by the music office.
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
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
Courses Offered
- Music Research Methods
- 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)
- Submission and Viva
Programme Learning Outcomes
