PhD Program FAQs
The number of credits varies dependent upon the degree(s) an applicant has already received.
- Entering with a bachelors degree in music: 62-63 credits*
- Entering with an MM in Conduc ng degree from Messiah University: 42 – 44 credits*
- Entering with an MME from Messiah University: 35 credits*
- Entering with a graduate degree from another ins tu on: will vary based on approval of transfer credits
*an addional 5 credits may be required if extended me is needed to finish the Dissertaon
Visit our Ph.D. in Music Education page to view the cost per credit.
On average, PhD students will enroll in 9 – 15 credits per year. This will depend on credit limitations that may exist as part of an employer credit reimbursement program, for instance.
A course plan will be created upon entrance to the program. The PhD program is meant to be flexible, and there are several elective courses from which to choose. Once a student makes those elective choices, a personalized Course Plan will be developed. We have developed a framework for your reference which can be made available upon request at gradmusic@messiah.edu.
In the Fall and Spring we offer 8 - and 16-week online courses. In-person Summer Intensives are three weeks in length with one week of on-campus atendance. Online Summer courses vary in length.
Yes, the majority of your credits will count towards your PhD with a few exceptions.
It will depend on the University, the coursework, and how long ago the course was taken, but it is likely that credits can be transferred. There is a process in place to get transfer credits approved once you have been accepted as a student.
Depending on the courses you choose and those that you bring into the program, the PhD can be completed
fully online. All fall and spring courses are completed online. Summer Intensives have a one-week, in person
component, but options for many online courses are available.
Applications are taken for Fall, Spring, and Summer start terms. As long as the application open you can apply. Due to overwhelming response, we had to close the inaugural Fall start term in less than a week.
PhD students are eligible to apply for federal financial aid. Our Graduate Financial Services department can
answer any questions you may have. They can be reached at: gradfinancialserv@messiah.edu.
Services department can answer any questions you may have. They can be reached at:
gradfinancialserv@messiah.edu.