PhD in Ethnomusicology (4 Years)

Tuition costs 17,988 CAD per year. Applications for the Sep 2027 intake are due by Mar 1, 2027.

The PhD in Ethnomusicology at Memorial University of Newfoundland is a 4-year program for individuals interested in researching music as a cultural practice. This PhD degree offers a unique opportunity to explore music in various cultural contexts. The program's main advantages include its interdisciplinary approach and access to the Research Centre for the Study of Music, Media, and Place.

The curriculum includes coursework in contemporary approaches to theory and method in ethnomusicology, as well as ethnographic and historical studies of music and culture. Students will develop skills in ethnographic fieldwork and media production, including radio and video. The program also features a Sundanese gamelan degung and a Music & Culture Lecture Series, providing students with hands-on experience and exposure to world-renowned scholars.

Graduates of this program can pursue careers as Music Professors, Cultural Animators, Music Researchers, Ethnomusicologists, or Arts Administrators. They can work in academia, cultural institutions, or the public sector, applying their knowledge of music as a cultural practice to various settings. The program's strong research focus and interdisciplinary approach prepare students for a range of careers in the music and cultural industries.

Memorial University of Newfoundland in St. John's is an accessible, research-focused public institution with deep ties to its region and a global outlook. Founded in 1925, it serves roughly 18,000 students and offers more than 260 programs spanning arts, sciences, engineering, business and education. The campus combines modern facilities with a scenic Atlantic setting, making it appealing for international students seeking hands-on learning in a supportive environment.

Academically, Memorial is noted for ocean sciences, environmental sustainability and Indigenous studies, supported by dedicated research centres such as the Marine Institute and Labrador Institute. Small-class teaching and active faculty mentorship help students engage in applied research and community projects. Professional placements, co-op options and interdisciplinary collaboration are common, giving graduates practical experience and connections to local and global employers.

Student life in St. John’s blends vibrant culture, outdoor activities and a welcoming community, with services tailored for international students, including advising, housing assistance and orientation programs. Costs of living are often lower than larger Canadian cities, while campus supports address academic and personal needs. Prospective students should highlight research interests and relevant experience when applying, and explore funding and scholarship opportunities to make the most of what Memorial offers.