The Doctor of Philosophy in Music Education program at UNC Greensboro is a supportive and collegial community where students engage in the advanced study of music teaching, learning, and research. Each doctoral student completes core studies in music education and research and pursues electives in music and other disciplines, allowing for a personalized curriculum that suits students’ career aspirations while maintaining academic and scholarly excellence.
About the School of Music
The School of Music at UNC Greensboro was ranked #1 in the U.S. by Best Value Schools in 2025.
The UNCG School of Music offers the only comprehensive degrees in music education and music performance in the State of North Carolina, from the undergraduate level through doctoral study.
The school is a member of the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM).
Doctor of Philosophy in Music Education Program Distinctions
The PhD program is part of a School of Music deeply committed to music education. The program’s core principle is that music instruction should be universally accessible.
The program is highly regarded for its balance of deep scholarly research and practical pedagogical training.
The PhD program at UNCG offers a highly personalized curriculum:
- Tailored Timelines: Full-time students can move through coursework and graduate in six semesters.
- Flexible Electives: Out of the 54 required credit hours, students complete 18 hours of electives.
- Cognate Options: Students can design a customized “cognate” or minor area of study in outside fields approved by their committee.
“It’s easy to describe it in numbers, but change can be brought about when you put readers into the shoes of the person experiencing it.”
–Dr. Quinton Parker ’21 Ph.D. in Music Education
The PhD in Music Education Student Experience
Ph.D. students collaborate with world-class faculty and researchers who are passionate about music education.
Doctoral candidates may perform in diverse ensembles ranging from classical chamber music to modern jazz.
Students belong to a supportive and collegial community to engage in advanced study of music teaching, learning, and research.
After Graduating with a PhD in Music Education
The PhD in Music Education prepares students for careers as college-level teachers, school administrators, and other leadership positions in the profession.
- Tenure-Track University Professor
- Music Education Coordinator
- Researcher
- District Arts Administrator / Fine Arts Director
- Curriculum Specialist
- Educational Director for Arts Organizations
- Corporate Arts Consultant
- Policy Advocate / Think Tank Analyst
How To Apply to The PhD in Music Education
Students interested in the PhD in Music Education complete UNCG’s undergraduate admission process and the School of Music application/audition process.
Frequently ASked Questions About the PhD in Music Education
Program Details
Degree Type: Doctoral
College/School: College of Visual and Performing Arts
Program Type: Majors & Concentrations
Class Type: In Person
Catalog Name: Music Education, Ph.D.
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Contact Us
Dr. Tami Draves
tjdraves@uncg.edu