Doctor of Philosophy in Music, Emphasis Theory (PhD)
CanadaCourse at a Glance
- PhDDegree level
- Vancouver, CanadaLocation
- September 2027Intakes
- Music TheoryField of study
- EnglishLanguage of instruction
- VancouverCampus
- Doctor of Philosophy in Music, Emphasis Theory (PhD)Awards
- $10,082Fees
- AvailableScholarship
About this programme
Theories of music describe ways that listeners, composers, and performers conceive of the elements of their art. Study of theory, then, informs all aspects of musical learning at UBC.
Read more
Our faculty include internationally known researchers who contribute to theories of rhythm and meter, music cognition, computer applications, music theory pedagogy, and the analysis of a diverse range of recent art music and traditional music from across the world. Students in our graduate programs are mentored professionally through intensive seminars, teaching assistantships, research assistantships, and conference participation. We welcome research of an interdisciplinary nature, involving musicology, ethnomusicology, mathematics, linguistics, and other musically pertinent areas. For specific program requirements, please refer to the departmental program website
Is this course right for you?
Our counsellors check your profile against this programme's entry criteria and tell you where you stand — before you pay anything.
What we look at
- Your subject background and grades
- Your English score, or how to get one
- Budget, including living costs
University & programme
Canada- Listed from the catalogueNot yet staff-verified — ask us to confirm the details.
- English requirementIELTS Overall 6.5
- Study modeDissertation
Admissions checklist
Entry requirements
Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies minimum: a bachelor's degree with a minimum overall average in the B+ range (76% at UBC); individual programmes may set higher minimums. Applicants from a university outside Canada where English is not the primary language of instruction must submit an English language proficiency test taken within the last 24 months. · English: IELTS 6.5 (no band below 6.0); TOEFL iBT 90; Duolingo English Test 125 · English test waiver: Applicants whose degree is from a university where English is the primary language of instruction are not required to submit an English language proficiency test (UBC Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies English language requirement). · GRE/GMAT: The GRE is not required. · Application fee: CAD 168.25 (international applicants); CAD 118.50 (Canadian citizen / permanent resident / refugee / diplomat)
The usual set for this level. Your counsellor confirms the exact list for this university.
- Academic transcripts
- English test score (IELTS/TOEFL)
- Passport copy
- Statement of purpose (optional)
- Recommendation letters (optional)
Cost & scholarships
- Tuition$10,082 CAD / year≈ $7,413 / year
- Application feeNo application fee for this programme
- Living costsVary by city — see the destination guide.
- ScholarshipsInternational Tuition Award (ITA) CAD 3,200.00 per year for eligible individuals, as published in the programme fee table.
Application timeline
Typical timings. Deadlines differ per university and intake.
- 1Prepare documents1–2 weeks
- 2Submit application1–3 weeks
- 3Receive offer letter2–6 weeks
- 4Apply for visa4–8 weeks
Application deadline: September 2027 intake - international applicants: 1 December 2026
Visa & support journey
- Offer letterFrom the university
- Visa guidanceExpert support
- Pre-departureAccommodation & travel
- Ongoing supportEven after you arrive
Student stories
Real students. Real results.
- Average rating
- 4.9
- Google reviews
- 360+
- Rated five stars
- 95%
Average rating
Google reviews
Rated five stars
“I would like to express my gratitude for the excellent assistance provided during my student visa process. The team was responsive, knowledgeable, and supportive at every stage, from document preparation to submission guidance. Their clear communication and professional approach made the process much easier and more efficient.”
1 / 8
Nihad K, 5 out of 5 stars
Every review below is a real Google review — see all of them
Frequently asked questions
How much does Doctor of Philosophy in Music, Emphasis Theory (PhD) cost?
CAD 10,082 / year.
What English score does it need?
IELTS 6.5 overall is the score listed for this programme.
When does it start?
Intakes listed for this programme: September 2027.
What are the entry requirements?
Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies minimum: a bachelor's degree with a minimum overall average in the B+ range (76% at UBC); individual programmes may set higher minimums. Applicants from a university outside Canada where English is not the primary language of instruction must submit an English language proficiency test taken within the last 24 months. · English: IELTS 6.5 (no band below 6.0); TOEFL iBT 90; Duolingo English Test 125 · English test waiver: Applicants whose degree is from a university where English is the primary language of instruction are not required to submit an English language proficiency test (UBC Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies English language requirement). · GRE/GMAT: The GRE is not required. · Application fee: CAD 168.25 (international applicants); CAD 118.50 (Canadian citizen / permanent resident / refugee / diplomat)
Is there a scholarship?
International Tuition Award (ITA) CAD 3,200.00 per year for eligible individuals, as published in the programme fee table.
Ready to apply?
Get expert guidance and take the first step towards your global education.
Free counselling · No application fee to enquire · Reply within 24h