Wilfrid Laurier University - Faculty of Graduate Studies

Music (PhD)

Wilfrid Laurier University - Faculty of Graduate Studies

Faculty:Faculty of Music
Degree:Doctorate
Field of Study:Music Performance, General
Music Theory and Composition
Music, General
Music, Other
Length:4 Year(s)
Cost per year:*
National: $5,244

Please visit the Laurier website for more information on tuition and fees.
All costs are estimates and subject to change.

Careers:Conductors, Composers and ArrangersMusicians and Singers

Description:

Built around themes of music, health, community and culture, this four-year degree will benefit students interested in mastering their research skills and looking to make their mark in the fields of music therapy or community music.

Unique not only in Canada, but also internationally, the program curriculum is based on a Doctoral Action Plan, Problem-Based Learning, Peer Learning, and various Doctoral Special Seminar Topics (DSST).

Research pursuits are limitless, but may include music and wellness, music performance and transforming communities, music therapy interventions, music and the brain, global music practices, activism in health and well-being, music and aging, and music-medicine.

Prerequisites:

Grade for Entrance Previous Year (%)*77
Test Scores:
  • Test of English as a Foreign Language (Internet Based) or Pearson Test of English (Academic) or International English Language Testing System (academic or immigration)
Additional Admission Requirements:
  • Letter(s) of Reference
  • Resume/Curriculum Vitae
  • Portfolio

Successful applicants must have completed a master's program in areas such as Music, Music Education, Fine Arts, Music Therapy, or Community Music with a minimum average of A-. Applicants holding an honours undergraduate degree in in Music/Music Therapy/Community Music and a master's degree in allied fields such as Social Work, Psychology, Pastoral Counselling, Music Education, Early Childhood Music, Pedagogy, Leisure Studies, or other related fields may be considered.


The application process will consist of an interview, three (3) academic reference letters, a completed Statement of Intent** and an example of graduate-level writing.


Your Statement of Intent describes what you will investigate, why your topic is important, and how do you plan to conduct your research. It should include a title, introduction, literature review, research design (paradigm, research methods, data collection/analysis plan) and references. (2000 words)


Applicants to this program will indicate either (a) Community Music or (b) Music Therapy as their primary field of proposed study. Documented field experience in the applicant's area of study will be considered an asset.


Applicants whose language of instruction was not English must furnish evidence of proficiency in English prior to admission, in accordance with university requirements.


Students who may not come from traditional music degrees but demonstrate life experience in pertinent aspects of Community Music or Music Therapy along with a strong application may be eligible for admission under the university's existing alternate admission plan provision.


** In addition to submitting the digital copy of the Statement of Intent, applicants must submit a link to [email protected] with a 5-10 minute video, summarizing your Statement of Intent. The purpose of the video is to introduce yourself, why do you want to do PhD at Laurier, and would be a good candidate for the programme.

* The entrance grade may change from year to year. Please contact the school for further information.

* We make every attempt to provide accurate information on prerequisites, programs, and tuition. However, this information is subject to change without notice and we highly recommend that you contact the school to confirm important information before applying.

Modified on December 17, 2025