The Ph.D. program in electronic music and multimedia focuses on the analysis and production of original multidisciplinary works of art, exploring the use of digital music and sound in combination with video, performance, and text. The program consists of advanced examinations of theoretical, technical, cultural, and aesthetic issues surrounding music and multimedia production, centering on the use of interactive technologies and gestural control in performance. Research and production are supported by the department's Multimedia and Electronic Music Experiments (MEME) studios, with extensive resources in interactive software and hardware.

Additional resources: Multimedia and Electronic Music Experiments (MEME) studios, video and audio recording equipment, multimedia lab.

Completion requirements: A.M.: Eight courses selected in consultation with advisor; expertise in one programming language; qualifying review; thesis in the form of an audio CD, an electronic performance, a work for DVD, an internet production, or an art/sound installation. Students entering the program without the A.M. earn that degree as part of their progress toward the Ph.D. We do not encourage applicants who seek the A.M. as a terminal degree.

Ph.D.: In addition to the courses required for the A.M., five additional courses for a total of thirteen. Required courses include a minimum of four graduate-level seminars offered by the electronic music and multimedia program. After completion of all coursework in the third year, the candidate will take a three-hour oral preliminary examination. Passing the preliminary examination authorizes the candidate to proceed to the doctoral dissertation, which is completed during the fourth and fifth years.

ADMISSION INFORMATION

Admission requirements: Three or four examples of your best creative work required and must be sent to the Graduate School; examples can include music CDs, videos, DVDs, scores, CD-ROMs, web sites, or other artwork. Please include brief notes about your work and anything else that may help guide in the evaluation process. Writing sample not required. Candidates are evaluated primarily on their creative work.

GRE General: Required

GRE Subject: Not required

Application deadline: January 1

FACULTY