Research degrees

Studying for a research degree at Durham is an unrivalled opportunity to work on an original piece of research with the regular support of an expert supervisory team. Most of your time will be spent on your own project - a thesis in musicology or ethnomusicology, or a portfolio of compositions. Alongside that you will follow an individually-tailored programme of skills development, and take an active part in the Department's rich and varied programme of research events.

The excellent communication with and support from my supervisor and all the staff members, as well as the friendly and collaborative atmosphere within the postgraduate community of the Music Department afforded me with enthusiasm for working hard on my research project. In addition, the interaction with such a community of talented and knowledgeable people was another important source of motivation for me. Needless to say, I applied for a PhD in the same department, and I felt incredibly honored to be offered a place and also to be granted an AHRC funding for the three years of the degree

Maria Kouvarou, PhD student in the Department of Music

The options available are set out in the table below. Please get in touch with us, and a member of staff in your area will be happy to discuss the available options with you.

For more information, download the Postgraduate Research Students Handbook 2012-2013