They should total approximately sixty minutes of playing time. Each doctoral student in composition must elect work in two cognate fields, the first of which is a combination of music theory and musicology. This must include a total of at least 15 hours of graduate course work in music theory and musicology or at least five courses totaling a minimum of 12 hours. The second cognate may be any related field of special interest to the student, such as performance or a field of the humanities. The second cognate requirement may be satisfied through course work elections or through a combination of recitals, projects, papers, and course work approved by the composition advisor and an advisor in the cognate field.
Performance is recommended if the student has already arrived at a high level of proficiency.
Studies in non-musical fields should relate to the student's interests as a composer and musician. They should provide broad knowledge, insight, and awareness of the relationships between music and other relevant disciplines. Preliminary Examinations Preliminary examinations, both oral and written, are required prior to admission to candidacy. These examinations cover not only the student's field of specialization and the cognate fields but also the broad general field of music and the relationships between music and other disciplines. The examinations are not necessarily based upon the specific individual courses taken by the student, although course work will be exceedingly helpful in preparing for the exams.