The Doctor of Philosophy in Music Performance at UCSI University is a research-led doctoral programme centred on advanced performance practice and critical enquiry.
Malaysia
UCSI University
PhD
Liberal Arts
In-person
3 Years
US$8,748
N/A
QS World University Rankings: 2023 284, 2024 300, 2025 265, 2026 269, 2027 282
The Doctor of Philosophy in Music Performance at UCSI University is a research-led doctoral programme centred on advanced performance practice and critical enquiry. It places performance at the core of the degree, with doctoral study shaped around solo and collaborative performance work, scholarly investigation, and the development of original artistic thinking. The programme is conducted in English and is based at UCSI’s Institute of Music in Kuala Lumpur.
Study combines high-level performance work with research supervision and independent doctoral development. Candidates progress through recitals, a lecture-recital, and a thesis, building the ability to interpret performance challenges through research and to present work at a professional level. The course is aimed at musicians seeking to deepen both artistic practice and scholarly understanding within a PhD framework.
Course
Music Research Methods
Graduation requirements
3 Creative Work Projects
- Recital 1 (50-60 minutes performance)
- Recital 2 (50-60 minutes performance)
- Lecture-Recital (60 minutes performance and 2,000 words document)
1 Research Project
- 1 thesis (20,000 - 40,000 words)
Submission and Viva
The Doctor of Philosophy in Music Performance at UCSI University is a research-led doctoral programme centred on advanced performance practice and critical enquiry.
Doctor of Philosophy in Music Performance takes 3 years and is delivered in person.
Doctor of Philosophy in Music Performance centres on independent research with academic supervision and formal progress milestones.
Academic entry requirements vary by qualification and may include Master’s Degree, Equivalent master’s qualification accepted by HEP. or other accepted pathways. English evidence may include IELTS 6.5.
The estimated international tuition fee is US$8,748 per year.
| Curriculum | Required Score |
|---|---|
| Master’s Degree | Conditional admissionMaster’s Degree accepted by the HEP Senate |
| Equivalent master’s qualification accepted by HEP Senate | Equivalent qualificationOther qualification equivalent to a Master's Degree, as accepted by the HEP Senate |
| Government-recognised equivalent master’s qualification in related field | Equivalent qualificationOther qualification equivalent to a Master's Degree in a related field recognised by the Government of Malaysia |
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Music audition requirement | Audition requirementCandidates must meet the Music Audition Requirements for the Institute of Music postgraduate programme |
| Proposal requirements | Thesis proposalOne thesis proposal of 500-1,000 words is required, with scope of research, literature review and supporting references. Required components include background of study, significance of study, research aims/goals, research methods, research questions and reference list Creative work proposalsTwo creative work proposals are required: proposed repertoire for Recital 1 and Recital 2, plus a Lecture-Recital proposal of 250-500 words covering the literature or performance to be studied and presented |
| English proof note | English proofIf native language or prior degree studies are not in English, proof of English language proficiency is required. If English was the medium of instruction at the previous institution, a supporting document is required |
| International student commencement | Visa requirementSuccessful international applicants will be able to proceed with the programme once the visa requirement is approved and received by the music office |
| Test | Score |
|---|---|
| Cambridge Linguaskills (International students) | 176 |
| IELTS (International students) | Band 6.5 |
| Cambridge English Qualifications and Tests (OET) (International students) | 300 |
| TOEFL (International students) | 79 |
| Pearson Test of English (International students) | 63 |
| MUET (International students) | Band 4.5 |
| Certified Intensive English Programme (CIEP) by ELS (International students) | 109 |
| Details | Fee |
|---|---|
| Year 1 | US$8,748 |
| Year 2 | US$8,748 |
| Year 3 | US$8,748 |
| Estimated total | US$26,243 |
Fee amounts are estimates based on university-published international student fee information available at the time of publication. Actual fees may change by intake and may vary because of exchange rates, taxes, or university updates.