Jump To:
- Master of Music (M.Mus.) Music: Composition (Thesis) (45 credits)
- Master of Arts (M.A.) Music: Music Education (Non-Thesis) (45 credits)
- Master of Arts (M.A.) Music: Music Education (Thesis) (45 credits)
- Master of Arts (M.A.) Music: Musicology (Non-Thesis) (45 credits)
- Master of Arts (M.A.) Music: Musicology (Thesis) (45 credits)
- Master of Arts (M.A.) Music Musicology (Thesis): Gender and Women's Studies (45 credits)
- Master of Arts (M.A.) Music: Music Technology (Thesis) (45 credits)
- Master of Arts (M.A.) Music: Theory (Non-Thesis) (45 credits)
- Master of Arts (M.A.) Music: Theory (Thesis) (45 credits)
- Master of Arts (M.A.) Music Theory (Thesis): Gender and Women's Studies (45 credits)
- Master of Music (M.Mus.) Sound Recording (Non-Thesis) (60 credits)
- Master of Music (M.Mus.) Performance: Collaborative Piano (Thesis) (45 credits)
- Master of Music (M.Mus.) Performance: Conducting (Thesis) (45 credits)
- Master of Music (M.Mus.) Performance: Early Music (Thesis) (45 credits)
- Master of Music (M.Mus.) Performance: Jazz Performance (Thesis) (45 credits)
- Master of Music (M.Mus.) Performance: Opera and Voice (Thesis) (45 credits)
- Master of Music (M.Mus.) Performance: Orchestral Instruments, Guitar (Thesis) (45 credits)
- Master of Music (M.Mus.) Performance: Organ (Thesis) (45 credits)
- Master of Music (M.Mus.) Performance: Piano (Thesis) (45 credits)
- Doctor of Music (D.Mus.) Music: Composition
- Doctor of Music (D.Mus.) Music: Performance Studies
- Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) Music (Composition, Music Education, Musicology, Music Technology, Sound Recording, Theory, Interdisciplinary Studies and Applied Performance Sciences)
- Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) Music: Gender and Women's Studies
- Graduate Diploma (Gr. Dip.) Performance (30 credits)
- Post-Graduate Artist Diploma (Post-Grad Artist Diploma) Performance (30 credits)
- Graduate Certificate (Gr. Cert.) Performance Choral Conducting (15 credits)
- Schulich School of Music Admission Requirements and Application Procedures
Schulich School of Music
Location
Location
- Schulich School of Music
- Strathcona Music Building
- 555 Sherbrooke Street West
- Montreal QC H3A 1E3
- Telephone: 514-398-4469
- Website: mcgill.ca/music
About Schulich School of Music
About Schulich School of Music
The Schulich School of Music of Æ»¹ûÒùÔº is internationally renowned for its leadership in combining professional conservatory-style musical training, humanities-based scholarship, and scientific-technological research at the highest levels. Its programs encourage musicians and music researchers alike to push boundaries and explore new possibilities. The School’s facilities are a physical affirmation of our commitment and belief in the future of music, artists, creators, and researchers, and they encourage multimedia productions and trans-disciplinary collaborations. Among the most notable facilities are:
- a music library that houses one of the most important academic music collections in Canada;
- four concert halls;
- the Digital Composition Studio;
- sound recording studios;
- the (CIRMMT); and
- a research network that links the Faculty with other University departments and research institutes.
Nestled in the heart of the city, the School also draws on the rich cultural life of Montreal—a bilingual city with a celebrated symphony orchestra, dozens of annual festivals, and hundreds of live music venues hosting world-class concerts.
The Master of Arts degree (M.A.) is available as a thesis option in Music Education, Music Technology, Musicology (with an option in Gender and Women’s Studies), and Theory (with an option in Gender and Women’s Studies).
The thesis may take one of two forms in Music Education and Theory: the standard thesis and the research paper-based thesis (includes a more substantial course load). Students in Music Technology and Musicology only have a standard thesis available as an option.
The Master of Music degree (M.Mus.) is available in Composition, Performance, and Sound Recording. Specializations offered within the performance option are: piano, guitar, orchestral instruments (including orchestral training), organ and church music, conducting, collaborative piano, opera and voice, early music, and jazz.
The Graduate Certificate in Performance – Choral Conducting is designed for choral conductors wishing to perfect their technical, pedagogical, and musical skills. This flexible program allows conductors to develop their craft while maintaining their professional activities.
The Graduate Diploma in Performance is a one-year graduate diploma that allows excellent musicians to refine their technique and master repertoire through intensive coaching, practice, and performance projects.
The Post-Graduate Artist Diploma in Performance is the uppermost diploma offered at the Schulich School of Music. It is tailored for artists wishing to achieve the highest level of artistry in their craft.
The Doctor of Music degree (D.Mus.) is offered in Composition and Performance Studies.
The Doctor of Philosophy degree (Ph.D.) is available in Applied Performance Science, Composition, Interdisciplinary Studies, Music Education, Musicology, Music Technology, Sound Recording, and Music Theory. A Gender and Women's Studies specialization is possible in Music Education, Musicology, and Music Theory.
Funding
The Schulich School of Music has several sources of funding for graduate students.
Entrance Excellence Scholarships for highly ranked graduate students typically range in value from $5,000 to $20,000; some two- and three-year packages are available at the master's and doctoral levels, respectively (see mcgill.ca/gps/funding). A limited number of differential fee waivers are also available for the most highly ranked incoming international students. The Scholarships and Student Aid Office offers information and options for out-of-province, American, and other international students (see mcgill.ca/studentaid).
Returning students are eligible for a small number of in-course scholarships awarded annually to recognize excellence in academic and performance achievement.
The Schulich School of Music also has a renowned mentoring program that helps students develop applications for a wide variety of external funding for national, international, and university competitions ( Research, , , , , , , , etc.), including various arts and cultural organizations (recordings, commissions, production artistic development). Some provide for multi-year funding, others funding for individual projects.
Opportunities for funding through Work Study and as teaching assistants also provide professional training. Positions include TAs, invigilators, apprentice writers for program notes, sound recording technicians, library assistants, stage hands, Opera Studio, and front-of-house staff, among others. Positions for teaching assistantships are advertized each semester by departmental announcement. Typically there are few, if any, TA positions available for students in their first year of study. Posts are advertized through the Music Research and Performance Departments at the beginning of each semester and through the Work Study website.
A variety of research assistantships in selected areas are also available. Inquiries should be directed to the supervisors, the Associate Dean of Graduate Studies in Music, and the Associate Dean for Research (see mcgill.ca/music/people-research/staff-directory).
Opportunities for paid performances in the community for soloists, choristers, chamber ensembles, organists, orchestral and jazz musicians, and piano collaborators are facilitated through the Booking Office (see mcgill.ca/music/about-us/hire-student-musicians/gig-list).
The Schulich School of Music also provides travel funding for conferences and special performance and research initiatives. Graduate students may apply once per academic year; see mcgill.ca/music/student-resources/competitions-awards.
Master's Programs
Master of Music (M.Mus.) Music: Composition (Thesis) (45 credits) | |
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The M.Mus. in Music; Composition offers the students the possibility to develop their own individual voices through private instruction with some of Canada’s most accomplished composers, all of whom have distinguished themselves through high-profile commissions, performances, recordings, and awards. The faculty members' diverse interests ensure that students will find a suitable mentor/supervisor. Students admitted to the M.Mus. in Music; Composition program who have undergraduate degrees other than the B.Mus. in Composition from Æ»¹ûÒùÔº, may be required to successfully complete one or more undergraduate course(s) before completion of the Master’s program. For more information, see mcgill.ca/music/programs/mmus-composition. |
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Master of Arts (M.A.) Music: Music Education (Thesis) (45 credits) | |
The M.A. in Music; Music Education provides an opportunity for studio- and classroom-based teachers and music educators working in other community settings, to explore current issues in music education and to implement their own research studies. Seminars introduce foundations of a range of research methodologies and critical thinking skills. The thesis option may take one of two forms: in-depth monograph-style thesis and the research paper-based thesis that includes a more substantial course load. Students admitted to the M.A. in Music; Music Education program who have undergraduate degrees other than the B.Mus. in Music Education from Æ»¹ûÒùÔº, may be required to successfully complete one or more undergraduate course(s) before completion of the Master’s program. For more information, see mcgill.ca/music/programs/ma-music-education. |
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Master of Arts (M.A.) Music: Music Technology (Thesis) (45 credits) | |
The M.A. in Music; Music Technology encourages interaction between musical creation, technology, and research, with an intensive focus on scientific research of advanced music technologies. Topics include computer music, new media, musical acoustics, digital signal processing, human–computer interaction, synthesis and gestural control, music information retrieval and music perception and cognition. Students admitted to the M.A. in Music; Music Technology who have undergraduate degrees other than the B.Mus. from Æ»¹ûÒùÔº, may be required to successfully complete one or more undergraduate course(s) before completion of the Master’s program. For more information, see mcgill.ca/music/programs/ma-music-technology. |
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Master of Arts (M.A.) Music: Musicology (Thesis) (45 credits) | |
The M.A. in Music; Musicology program focuses on the diverse ways in which music's political, social, and historical contexts shape the meanings. The program comprises foundational methodologies, critical thinking skills and exploration of themes in musicological literature and analytical skills. Students write an in-depth monograph-style thesis. Students admitted to the M.A. in Music; Musicology program who have undergraduate degrees other than the B.Mus. in Music History from Æ»¹ûÒùÔº, may be required to successfully complete one or more undergraduate course(s) before completion of the Master’s program. For more information, see mcgill.ca/music/programs/ma-musicology. |
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Master of Arts (M.A.) Music Musicology (Thesis): Gender and Women's Studies (45 credits) | |
The Master of Arts; Music; Musicology - Gender and Women’s Studies focuses on issues centrally related to gender, sexuality, feminist theory, and/or women’s studies. Students admitted to the Master of Arts; Music; Musicology - Gender and Women’s Studies program who have undergraduate degrees other than the B.Mus. in Music History from Æ»¹ûÒùÔº, may be required to successfully complete one or more undergraduate course(s) before completion of the Master’s program. For more information, see mcgill.ca/music/programs/ma-musicology. |
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Master of Music (M.Mus.) Sound Recording (Non-Thesis) (60 credits) | |
The M.Mus.; Sound Recording program is a course-based, professional training program designed for musicians who wish to develop the skills required in the music recording and media industries. It is based on the German Tonmeister program and offers extensive, hands-on opportunities to record a broad spectrum of solo recitals, large opera, and symphonic repertoire with soloists and choirs, as well as complex jazz band and pop idioms. Students admitted to the M.Mus. in Sound Recording may be required to successfully complete one or more undergraduate course(s) before the beginning of the Master’s program. For more information, see mcgill.ca/music/programs/mmus-sound-recording. |
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Master of Arts (M.A.) Music: Theory (Thesis) (45 credits) | |
The M.A. in Music; Theory explores how specific pieces of music are put together and how this may be generalized to relate to the way other pieces of music are composed, including music theory, various analytical models and the critical issues that define the discipline. The thesis option may take one of two forms: in-depth monograph-style thesis and the research paper-based thesis that includes a more substantial course load. Students admitted to the M.A. Music; Theory program who have undergraduate degrees other than the B.Mus. in Theory from Æ»¹ûÒùÔº, may be required to successfully complete one or more undergraduate course(s) before completion of the Master’s program. For more information, see mcgill.ca/music/programs/ma-theory. |
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Master of Arts (M.A.) Music Theory (Thesis): Gender and Women's Studies (45 credits) | |
The M.A. in Music; Theory - Gender and Women’s Studies focuses on issues centrally related to gender, sexuality, feminist theory, and/or women’s studies. This program is offered in collaboration with the Æ»¹ûÒùÔº Institute for Gender, Sexuality, and Feminist Studies that includes faculty and graduate students from across the University. Students admitted to the M.A. in Music; Theory – Gender and Women’s Studies who have undergraduate degrees other than the B.Mus. in Music History from Æ»¹ûÒùÔº, may be required to successfully complete one or more undergraduate course(s) before completion of the Master’s program. For more information, see mcgill.ca/music/programs/ma-theory. |
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Master of Arts (M.A.) Music: Music Education (Non-Thesis) (45 credits), Master of Arts (M.A.) Music: Musicology (Non-Thesis) (45 credits), and Master of Arts (M.A.) Music: Theory (Non-Thesis) (45 credits) |
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The M.A. program in Music; Non-Thesis - Music Education is a course-based program that focuses on disciplinary research methodologies and critical issues. Guidance is provided by leading scholars whose internationally acclaimed research covers a broad spectrum of topics central to the music education discipline. Students admitted to the M.A. in Music; Non-Thesis - Music Education program who have undergraduate degrees other than the B.Mus. in Music Education from Æ»¹ûÒùÔº, may be required to successfully complete one or more undergraduate course(s) before completion of the Master’s program. The M.A. in Music; Non-Thesis - Musicology is a course-based program that focuses on research methodologies and critical issues. Guidance is provided by leading scholars whose internationally-acclaimed research covers a broad spectrum of topics central to the Musicology discipline. Students admitted to the M.A. in Music; Non-Thesis - Musicology program who have undergraduate degrees other than the B.Mus. in Music History from Æ»¹ûÒùÔº, may be required to successfully complete one or more undergraduate course(s) before completion of the Master’s program. The M.A. in Music; Non-Thesis - Theory is a course-based program that focuses on disciplinary knowledge and critical issues. Guidance provided by leading scholars whose internationally-acclaimed research covers a broad spectrum of topics central to the theory discipline. Students admitted to the M.A. in Music; Non-Thesis - Theory who have undergraduate degrees other than the B.Mus. in Theory from Æ»¹ûÒùÔº, may be required to successfully complete one or more undergraduate course(s) before completion of the Master’s program. For more information, see mcgill.ca/music/admissions/graduate/masters. |
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Master of Music (M.Mus.) Performance: Jazz Performance (Thesis) (45 credits) | |
The M.Mus. Performance; Jazz program is flexibly designed to offer specialization in Jazz Composition, Jazz Performance, or Jazz Orchestra. All students take courses in jazz pedagogy, composition, and arranging. A recital and a recording of original music are the principal thesis requirements. Students admitted to the M.Mus. Performance; Jazz program who have undergraduate degrees other than the B.Mus. in Performance Jazz from Æ»¹ûÒùÔº, may be required to successfully complete one or more undergraduate courses before completion of the Master’s degree. For more information, see mcgill.ca/music/programs/mmus-jazz. |
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Master of Music (M.Mus.) Performance: Early Music (Thesis) (45 credits) | |
The Master of Music in Performance; Early Music program offers early music instrumentalists and vocalists instruction and performance experiences of a rich variety, as well as studies in historical performance practice. Students admitted to the M.Mus. in Performance; Early Music program who have undergraduate degrees other than the B.Mus. in Early Music Performance from Æ»¹ûÒùÔº, may be required to successfully complete one or more undergraduate courses before completion of the Master’s degree. Students with a B.Mus. Major Early Music Performance degree from Æ»¹ûÒùÔº may be required to successfully complete MUPD 560 Introduction to Research Methods in Music before completion of the Master’s program. For more information, see mcgill.ca/music/programs/mmus-early-music. |
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Master of Music (M.Mus.) Performance: Orchestral Instruments, Guitar (Thesis) (45 credits) | |
The M.Mus. Performance; Orchestral Instruments, Guitar program provides instrumentalists and guitarists with the opportunity to hone their artistry and expressive, interpretative skills. The program combines performance with seminars in performance practice in the broader humanistic and scientific contexts of music and artistic research-creation. Students admitted to the M.Mus. Performance; Orchestral Instruments, Guitar program who have undergraduate degrees other than the B.Mus. in Performance Orchestral Instruments or Guitar from Æ»¹ûÒùÔº, may be required to successfully complete one or more undergraduate courses before completion of the Master’s degree. Students with a B.Mus. in Performance Orchestral Instruments or Guitar degree from Æ»¹ûÒùÔº may be required to successfully complete MUPD 560 Introduction to Research Methods in Music before completion of the Master’s program. For more information, see mcgill.ca/music/programs/mmus-orchestral-instruments-guitar. |
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Master of Music (M.Mus.) Performance: Collaborative Piano (Thesis) (45 credits) | |
The M.Mus. in Performance; Collaborative Piano program focuses on the pianist as a collaborative musician in art song, instrumental, and opera répétiteur settings, including coaching responsibilities as well as collaboration with other musicians. Candidates need to have excellent technique and interpretative skills, sight-reading abilities, and previous collaborative experience. Students admitted to the M.Mus. in Performance; Collaborative Piano program who have undergraduate degrees other than the B.Mus. in Performance Piano from Æ»¹ûÒùÔº, may be required to successfully complete one or more undergraduate courses before completion of the Master’s degree. Students with a B.Mus. Major Performance Piano from Æ»¹ûÒùÔº may be required to successfully complete MUPD 560 Introduction to Research Methods in Music before completion of the Master’s program. For more information, see mcgill.ca/music/programs/mmus-collaborative-piano. |
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Master of Music (M.Mus.) Performance: Piano (Thesis) (45 credits) | |
The M.Mus. in Performance; Piano program immerses the pianist in a vibrant musical environment that blends performance training with humanities-based scholarship. The program provides opportunities for chamber music and a range of recital options, including solo and chamber music performance, sound recording, and creative interdisciplinary projects. Students admitted to the M.Mus. in Performance; Piano program who have undergraduate degrees other than the B.Mus. in Performance Piano from Æ»¹ûÒùÔº, may be required to successfully complete one or more undergraduate courses before completion of the Master’s degree. Students with a B.Mus. in Performance Piano degree from Æ»¹ûÒùÔº may be required to successfully complete MUPD 560 Introduction to Research Methods in Music before completion of the Master’s program. For more information, see mcgill.ca/music/programs/mmus-piano. |
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Master of Music (M.Mus.) Performance: Organ (Thesis) (45 credits) | |
The M.Mus. in Performance; Organ program provides organists with the opportunity to hone their artistry and interpretive skills. The program combines performance with seminars in historically informed performance practice, music and liturgy, counterpoint, improvization, and continuo playing, among other options. Students admitted to the M.Mus. in Performance; Organ program who have undergraduate degrees other than the B.Mus. in Performance (Organ) from Æ»¹ûÒùÔº, may be required to successfully complete one or more undergraduate course(s) before completion of the Master’s degree. Students with a B.Mus. Major Performance (Organ) degree from Æ»¹ûÒùÔº may be required to successfully complete MUPD 560 Introduction to Research Methods in Music before completion of the Master’s program. For more information, see mcgill.ca/music/programs/mmus-organ. |
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Master of Music (M.Mus.) Performance: Conducting (Thesis) (45 credits) | |
The M.Mus. in Performance; Conducting program allows students to specialize in instrumental or choral conducting. The program provides for concentrated podium time, interactions with world-class conductors, score study and the development of rehearsal technique. A range of seminars provides for the in-depth study of performance practice and the development of analytical skills. Students admitted to the M.Mus. in Performance; Conducting program who have undergraduate degrees other than the B.Mus. from Æ»¹ûÒùÔº may be required to successfully complete one or more undergraduate course(s) before completion of the Master’s degree. Students with a B.Mus. degree from Æ»¹ûÒùÔº may be required to successfully complete MUPD 560 Introduction to Research Methods in Music, some diction courses, orchestration classes, and a keyboard course before completion of the Master’s program. For more information, see mcgill.ca/music/programs/mmus-conducting. |
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Master of Music (M.Mus.) Performance: Opera and Voice (Thesis) (45 credits) | |
The M.Mus. in Performance; Opera and Voice program immerses the students in a vibrant musical environment that blends performance training with humanities-based scholarship. The program provides opportunities to develop artistry in a variety of solo and operatic repertoires. Students admitted to the M.Mus. in Performance; Opera and Voice program who have undergraduate degrees other than the B.Mus. in Performance Voice from Æ»¹ûÒùÔº, may be required to successfully complete one or more undergraduate courses before completion of the Master’s degree. Students with a B.Mus. Major Performance Voice degree from Æ»¹ûÒùÔº may be required to successfully complete MUPD 560 Introduction to Research Methods in Music before completion of the Master’s program. For more information, see mcgill.ca/music/programs/mmus-opera-voice. |
Graduate Certificate
Graduate Certificate (Gr. Cert.) Performance Choral Conducting (15 credits) |
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This program is designed for choral conductors wishing to perfect their technical, pedagogical, and musical skills, allowing conductors to develop their craft while maintaining their professional activities. The program includes group tutorial instruction in conducting, ensemble participation, and complementary courses offering the opportunity to focus on conducting technique, rehearsal pedagogy, or performance practice. Enrollment is limited. |
Graduate Diplomas
Graduate Diploma (Gr. Dip.) Performance (30 credits) |
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This one-year graduate performance diploma allows excellent musicians to refine their technique and master repertoire through intensive coaching, practice, and performance projects. Designed as a polishing diploma, the program prepares musicians for professional careers as soloists, opera singers, collaborative pianists, chamber, jazz and orchestral musicians, or for further graduate studies in performance. Program requirements are flexible, with a range of performance project options including solo, chamber, recording, orchestral auditions, and creative collaborations. Admission is by audition, with candidates having previously completed a B.Mus., a Licentiate, or an M.Mus. For more information, see mcgill.ca/music/programs/gdp. |
Doctoral Programs
Doctor of Music (D.Mus.) Music: Composition |
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The D.Mus. in Music; Composition offers composition students private instruction with some of Canada’s most accomplished composers as well as studies in different compositional methods and technologies. Students admitted to the D.Mus. Music; Composition program who have a master’s degree other than the M.Mus. in Composition from Æ»¹ûÒùÔº, may be required to successfully complete one or more undergraduate course(s) before completion of the doctoral program. For more information, see mcgill.ca/music/programs/dmus-composition. |
Doctor of Music (D.Mus.) Music: Performance Studies |
Students in the D.Mus. program in Performance are at a professional or near-professional level, are curious, and have research interests linked to their artistic practice. A broad range of seminars explore performance practice in the broader humanistic and scientific contexts of music, while encouraging the critical thinking and the fertile exchange of ideas that promote new ways of engaging with music. The artistic research may assume a variety of forms from the study of scores, works, and contextual influences through the analysis of performance itself and the creation of new works. Students benefit from mentoring by internationally renowned coaches and the research expertise of faculty from the Department of Music Research. For more information, see mcgill.ca/music/programs/dmus-performance. |
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) Music (Composition, Music Education, Musicology, Music Technology, Sound Recording, Theory, Interdisciplinary Studies and Applied Performance Sciences) |
The Ph.D. in Music is offered in six different topic areas: Musicology, Music Theory, Music Technology, Music Education, Sound Recording, and Composition with the possibility to conduct research in an interdisciplinary way. Students admitted to the Ph.D.; Music program who have a master’s degree other than a master’s degree in music from Æ»¹ûÒùÔº may be required to successfully complete one or more undergraduate courses before completion of the doctoral degree. For more information, see mcgill.ca/music/admissions/graduate/doctoral. |
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) Music: Gender and Women's Studies |
This program is open to doctoral students who are interested in cross-disciplinary research that focuses on issues centrally related to gender, sexuality, feminist theory, and/or women’s studies. This program is offered in collaboration with the Æ»¹ûÒùÔº Institute for Gender, Sexuality, and Feminist Studies that includes faculty and graduate students from across the University. Students admitted to the Ph.D. in Music who have a master’s degree other than a master’s degree in music from Æ»¹ûÒùÔº University may be required to successfully complete one or more undergraduate course(s) before completion of the doctoral program. For more information, see mcgill.ca/music/admissions/graduate/doctoral. |
Master of Music (M.Mus.) Music: Composition (Thesis) (45 credits)
The M.Mus. in Music; Composition focuses on the development of individual voices through private instruction with some of Canada's most accomplished composers, all of whom have distinguished themselves through high-profile commissions, performances, recordings, and awards. The faculty members' diverse interests ensures a suitable mentor/supervisor. ...
For more information, see Master of Music (M.Mus.) Music: Composition (Thesis) (45 credits).
Master of Arts (M.A.) Music: Music Education (Non-Thesis) (45 credits)
The M.A. in Music; Non-Thesis - Music Education is a course-based program that focuses on disciplinary research methodologies and critical issues. Guidance is provided by leading scholars whose internationally acclaimed research covers a broad spectrum of topics central to the music education discipline. ...
For more information, see Master of Arts (M.A.) Music: Music Education (Non-Thesis) (45 credits).
Master of Arts (M.A.) Music: Music Education (Thesis) (45 credits)
The M.A. in Music; Music Education provides an opportunity for studio- and classroom-based teachers and music educators working in other community settings, to explore current issues in music education and to implement their own research studies. Seminars introduce foundations of a range of research methodologies and critical thinking skills. The thesis can be...
For more information, see Master of Arts (M.A.) Music: Music Education (Thesis) (45 credits).
Master of Arts (M.A.) Music: Musicology (Non-Thesis) (45 credits)
The M.A. in Music; Musicology-Non-Thesis is a course-based program that focuses on research methodologies and critical issues. Guidance is provided by leading scholars whose internationally-acclaimed research covers a broad spectrum of topics central to the Musicology discipline. ...
For more information, see Master of Arts (M.A.) Music: Musicology (Non-Thesis) (45 credits).
Master of Arts (M.A.) Music: Musicology (Thesis) (45 credits)
The M.A. in Music; Musicology program focuses on the diverse ways in which music's political, social, and historical contexts shape the meanings. The program comprises foundational methodologies, critical thinking skills and exploration of themes in musicological literature and analytical skills. Students write an in-depth monograph-style thesis. ...
For more information, see Master of Arts (M.A.) Music: Musicology (Thesis) (45 credits).
Master of Arts (M.A.) Music Musicology (Thesis): Gender and Women's Studies (45 credits)
The Master of Arts in Music; Musicology - Gender and Women’s Studies focuses on issues centrally related to gender, sexuality, feminist theory, and/or women’s studies. ...
For more information, see Master of Arts (M.A.) Music Musicology (Thesis): Gender and Women's Studies (45 credits).
Master of Arts (M.A.) Music: Music Technology (Thesis) (45 credits)
The M.A. in Music; Music Technology encourages interaction between musical creation, technology, and research, with an intensive focus on scientific research of advanced music technologies. Topics include computer music, new media, musical acoustics, digital signal processing, human-computer interaction, synthesis and gestural control, music information retrieval...
For more information, see Master of Arts (M.A.) Music: Music Technology (Thesis) (45 credits).
Master of Arts (M.A.) Music: Theory (Non-Thesis) (45 credits)
The M.A. in Music; Non-Thesis - Theory is a course-based program that focuses on disciplinary knowledge and critical issues. Guidance provided by leading scholars whose internationally acclaimed research covers a broad spectrum of topics central to the theory discipline. ...
For more information, see Master of Arts (M.A.) Music: Theory (Non-Thesis) (45 credits).
Master of Arts (M.A.) Music: Theory (Thesis) (45 credits)
The M.A. in Music; Theory explores how specific pieces of music are put together and how this may be generalized to relate to the way other pieces of music are composed, including music theory, various analytical models and the critical issues that define the discipline. The thesis can be submitted in one of two formats: in-depth monograph-style thesis, or a...
For more information, see Master of Arts (M.A.) Music: Theory (Thesis) (45 credits).
Master of Arts (M.A.) Music Theory (Thesis): Gender and Women's Studies (45 credits)
The M.A. in Music; Theory - Gender and Women’s Studies focuses on issues centrally related to gender, sexuality, feminist theory, and/or women’s studies. This program is offered in collaboration with the Æ»¹ûÒùÔº Institute for Gender, Sexuality, and Feminist Studies that includes faculty and graduate students from across the University. ...
For more information, see Master of Arts (M.A.) Music Theory (Thesis): Gender and Women's Studies (45 credits).
Master of Music (M.Mus.) Sound Recording (Non-Thesis) (60 credits)
The M.Mus. in Sound Recording; Non-Thesis program is a course-based, professional training program designed for musicians who wish to develop the skills required in the music recording and media industries. It is based on the German Tonmeister program and offers extensive, hands-on opportunities to record a broad spectrum of solo recitals, large opera, and...
For more information, see Master of Music (M.Mus.) Sound Recording (Non-Thesis) (60 credits).
Master of Music (M.Mus.) Performance: Collaborative Piano (Thesis) (45 credits)
The M.Mus. in Performance; Collaborative Piano program focuses on the pianist as a collaborative musician in art song, instrumental, and opera répétiteur settings, including coaching responsibilities as well as collaboration with other musicians. ...
For more information, see Master of Music (M.Mus.) Performance: Collaborative Piano (Thesis) (45 credits).
Master of Music (M.Mus.) Performance: Conducting (Thesis) (45 credits)
The M.Mus. in Performance; Conducting program allows students to specialize in instrument or choral conducting. The program provides for concentrated podium time, interactions with world-class conductors, score study and the development of rehearsal technique. A range of seminars provides for the in-depth study of performance practice and the development of...
For more information, see Master of Music (M.Mus.) Performance: Conducting (Thesis) (45 credits).
Master of Music (M.Mus.) Performance: Early Music (Thesis) (45 credits)
The Master of Music in Performance; Early Music program offers early music instrumentalists and vocalists instruction and performance experiences of a rich variety, as well as studies in historical performance practice. ...
For more information, see Master of Music (M.Mus.) Performance: Early Music (Thesis) (45 credits).
Master of Music (M.Mus.) Performance: Jazz Performance (Thesis) (45 credits)
The M.Mus. Performance; Jazz program is flexibly designed to offer specialization in Jazz Composition, Jazz Performance, or Jazz Orchestra, including jazz pedagogy, composition, and arranging. A recital and a recording of original music are the principal thesis requirements. ...
For more information, see Master of Music (M.Mus.) Performance: Jazz Performance (Thesis) (45 credits).
Master of Music (M.Mus.) Performance: Opera and Voice (Thesis) (45 credits)
The M.Mus. in Performance; Opera and Voice program blends performance training with humanities-based scholarship in a vibrant musical environment. The program provides opportunities to develop artistry in a variety of solo and operatic repertoires. ...
For more information, see Master of Music (M.Mus.) Performance: Opera and Voice (Thesis) (45 credits).
Master of Music (M.Mus.) Performance: Orchestral Instruments, Guitar (Thesis) (45 credits)
The M.Mus. Performance; Orchestral Instruments, Guitar program provides instrumentalists and guitarists with the opportunity to hone their artistry and expressive, interpretive skills. The program combines performance with seminars in performance practice in the broader humanistic and scientific contexts of music and artistic research-creation. ...
For more information, see Master of Music (M.Mus.) Performance: Orchestral Instruments, Guitar (Thesis) (45 credits).
Master of Music (M.Mus.) Performance: Organ (Thesis) (45 credits)
The M.Mus. in Performance; Organ program provides organists with the opportunity to hone their artistry and interpretive skills. The program combines performance with seminars in historically informed performance practice, music and liturgy, counterpoint, improvisation, and continuo playing, among other options. ...
For more information, see Master of Music (M.Mus.) Performance: Organ (Thesis) (45 credits).
Master of Music (M.Mus.) Performance: Piano (Thesis) (45 credits)
The M.Mus.; Performance Piano program blends performance training with humanities-based scholarship in a vibrant musical environment. The program provides opportunities for chamber music and a range of recital options including solo and chamber music performance, sound recording, and creative interdisciplinary projects. ...
For more information, see Master of Music (M.Mus.) Performance: Piano (Thesis) (45 credits).
Doctor of Music (D.Mus.) Music: Composition
The D.Mus. in Music; Composition offers private instruction with some of Canada's most accomplished composers as well as studies in different compositional methods and technologies. ...
For more information, see Doctor of Music (D.Mus.) Music: Composition.
Doctor of Music (D.Mus.) Music: Performance Studies
The Doctor of Music (D.Mus.); Performance Studies focuses on practice through in-depth research in areas linked to performance. The program includes a doctoral project that is completed through artistic research or research papers choices. Live performance requirements are part of both choices.
For more information, see Doctor of Music (D.Mus.) Music: Performance Studies.
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) Music (Composition, Music Education, Musicology, Music Technology, Sound Recording, Theory, Interdisciplinary Studies and Applied Performance Sciences)
The Ph.D. in Music is offered in eight different topic areas: Musicology, Music Theory, Music Technology, Music Education, Sound Recording, Composition, Interdisciplinary Studies and Applied Performance Sciences. ...
For more information, see Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) Music (Composition, Music Education, Musicology, Music Technology, Sound Recording, Theory, Interdisciplinary Studies and Applied Performance Sciences).
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) Music: Gender and Women's Studies
This program is open to doctoral students who are interested in cross-disciplinary research that focuses on issues centrally related to gender, sexuality, feminist theory, and/or women’s studies. This program is offered in collaboration with the Æ»¹ûÒùÔº Institute for Gender, Sexuality, and Feminist Studies that includes faculty and graduate students from across the...
For more information, see Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) Music: Gender and Women's Studies.
Graduate Diploma (Gr. Dip.) Performance (30 credits)
A one-year graduate performance diploma that allows excellent musicians to refine their technique and master repertoire through intensive coaching, practice, and performance projects. Designed as a polishing diploma, the program prepares musicians for professional careers as soloist, opera singers, collaborative pianists, chamber, jazz and orchestral musicians or...
For more information, see Graduate Diploma (Gr. Dip.) Performance (30 credits).
Post-Graduate Artist Diploma (Post-Grad Artist Diploma) Performance (30 credits)
The Post-Graduate Artist Diploma in Performance is a third-cycle, one-year post-Master’s program that enables an intensive focus on the pursuit of performance goals at the highest level, through repertoire expansion and refinement of artistry, including intensive coaching, practice, and varied performance projects. Admission is by audition, with candidates having...
For more information, see Post-Graduate Artist Diploma (Post-Grad Artist Diploma) Performance (30 credits).
Graduate Certificate (Gr. Cert.) Performance Choral Conducting (15 credits)
The Graduate Certificate in Performance - Choral Conducting is designed for choral conductors wishing to perfect their technical, pedagogical, and musical skills. This flexible program allows conductors to develop their craft while maintaining their professional activities. The program includes group tutorial instruction in conducting, ensemble participation, and...
For more information, see Graduate Certificate (Gr. Cert.) Performance Choral Conducting (15 credits).
Schulich School of Music Admission Requirements and Application Procedures
Schulich School of Music Admission Requirements and Application Procedures
Admission Requirements
Admission Requirements
Master’s Degrees
Applicants for the master's degree must hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent (as determined by Æ»¹ûÒùÔº), typically with a Major in music, including considerable work done in the area of specialization.
Applicants found to be deficient in their background preparation may be required to successfully complete one or more undergraduate courses.
All applicants (except those for Performance, Musicology, and Sound Recording) will be required to take placement examinations.
All M.Mus. Performance applicants are required to pass an audition. Applicants can attend a live audition or submit recorded material.
Conducting, voice, and jazz applicants who apply for the live audition option must submit screening material for pre-selection. Following a review of these materials, selected applicants will be invited to attend a live audition. For more information, see mcgill.ca/music/admissions/graduate/graduate-auditions.
Specific admission and document requirements for each program are outlined at mcgill.ca/music/admissions/graduate.
Certificate in Performance: Choral Conducting
Applicants for the Certificate in Choral Conducting must hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent (as determined by Æ»¹ûÒùÔº), typically with a Major in music, including considerable work done in the area of specialization.
All applicants for the Certificate in Choral Conducting are required to pass an audition. Applicants can attend a live audition or submit recorded material.
Applicants who apply for the live audition option must submit screening material for pre-selection. Following a review of these materials, selected applicants will be invited to attend a live audition. For more information, see mcgill.ca/music/admissions/graduate/graduate-auditions.
Specific admission and document requirements for each program are outlined at mcgill.ca/music/admissions/graduate/how-apply/application-materials.
Graduate Diploma in Performance
Applicants for the Graduate Diploma in Performance must hold a B.Mus. or a B.A. degree with a Major or an Honours in music, a Licentiate, or an M.Mus., including considerable work in the area of specialization. All diploma applicants are required to pass an audition. Applicants can attend a live audition or submit recorded material. Voice and jazz applicants who apply for the live audition option will be required to submit screening material for pre-selection. Following a review of these materials, selected applicants will be invited to attend a live audition; see mcgill.ca/music/admissions/graduate/graduate-auditions. Specific admission and document requirements for each program are outlined at mcgill.ca/music/admissions/graduate/how-apply/application-materials.
Post-Graduate Artist Diploma
Applicants for the Post-Graduate Artist Diploma must hold a M.Mus. or D.Mus. in music, including considerable work in the area of specialization. All diploma applicants are required to pass an audition. Applicants can attend a live audition or submit recorded material. Specific admission and document requirements are outlined at mcgill.ca/music/admissions/graduate/how-apply/application-materials.
D.Mus. Degree
Applicants for the D.Mus. degree in Composition must hold an M.Mus. degree in Composition, or its equivalent, and must submit scores and/or recordings of their compositions at the time of application.
Applicants for the D.Mus. degree in Performance Studies must hold an M.Mus. degree in Performance, or its equivalent, and are required to submit screening material, samples of written work, and a statement of proposed artistic research interests by the specified application deadlines. Following a review of these materials, selected applicants will be invited to attend a live audition.
Ph.D. Degree
Applicants for the Ph.D. degree in Composition must hold an M.Mus. in Composition or equivalent and must submit scores and/or recordings of their compositions at the time of application, and a written description (no more than two pages) of the research path(s) they wish to follow.
Applicants for the Ph.D. degree in Music Education, Music Technology, Musicology, Sound Recording, Music – Gender and Women's Studies, or Theory must hold a master's or a bachelor's degree equivalent to a Æ»¹ûÒùÔº degree in Music Technology, Music Education, Musicology, Theory, or Sound Recording. Applicants with a bachelor's degree will normally be admitted to the M.A. program for the first year and may apply for admittance to the Ph.D. program after the completion of one full year of graduate coursework. Qualified applicants who have already completed an appropriate master's degree will be admitted to the second year of the Ph.D. program.
English Language Proficiency
For graduate applicants whose mother tongue is not English, and who have not completed an undergraduate or graduate degree from a recognized Canadian or American (English or French) institution or from a recognized foreign institution where English is the language of instruction, documented proof of English proficiency is required prior to admission. For a list of acceptable test scores and minimum requirements, visit
Application Procedures
Application Procedures
Æ»¹ûÒùԺ’s online application form for graduate program candidates is available at mcgill.ca/gradapplicants/apply.
See University Regulations & Resources > Graduate > Graduate Æ»¹ûÒùÔº and Application Procedures > Application Procedures for detailed application procedures. Please also consult mcgill.ca/music/admissions/graduate for detailed application procedures and document requirements.
Application Dates and Deadlines
Application Dates and Deadlines
Application opening dates are set by Enrolment Services in consultation with Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies (GPS), while application deadlines are set by the Schulich School of Music and may be revised at any time. Applicants must verify all deadlines and documentation requirements well in advance on the appropriate Æ»¹ûÒùÔº departmental website; please consult the list at mcgill.ca/gps/contact/graduate-program.
Information on application deadlines is available at mcgill.ca/gradapplicants/how-apply/application-steps/application-deadlines.
Admission to graduate studies is competitive; accordingly, late and/or incomplete applications are considered only as time and space permit.