Overview

The Computer-Based Music Theory and Acoustics programme at Stanford University offers a multidisciplinary approach to the study of sound, music theory, and technological innovation. Students engage in high-level research that bridges the gap between artistic expression and scientific analysis within a world-class academic environment.

This doctoral course is specifically designed for researchers who wish to explore the intersection of music and technology. It provides a rigorous framework for investigating how computational methods can be applied to traditional music theory and the physical properties of sound. Candidates are expected to demonstrate high potential for original scholarship.

Why Computer-Based Music Theory and Acoustics at Stanford University?

The programme is hosted by the Department of Music through the Center for Computer Research in Music and Acoustics, known as CCRMA. This world-renowned multidisciplinary facility attracts doctoral students from various fields, including Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Psychology.

Students benefit from the expertise of faculty members who hold positions across multiple departments, allowing for unique interdisciplinary supervision. For instance, faculty specialisations enable primary thesis advising for students in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, fostering a collaborative atmosphere that transcends traditional departmental boundaries.

The university provides exceptional facilities for research, including the CCRMA Stage, the Braun Music Center, and specialised music libraries. These resources support diverse research topics such as music perception, signal processing, human-computer interaction, and inter-media synthesis, ensuring students have the tools required for cutting-edge discovery.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 21180 per semester
National fee: USD 21180 per semester
Local fee: USD 13240 per semester

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is designed to provide a deep understanding of both the scientific and theoretical aspects of music. Modules may include:

Music Perception
Music-Related Signal Processing
Human-Computer Interaction
Synthesis
Inter-media
Computer-Based Music Theory
Acoustics

Careers with Computer-Based Music Theory and Acoustics

Graduates from this doctoral programme are prepared for advanced roles in both academia and the private sector. The interdisciplinary nature of the training allows alumni to pursue careers in fields such as audio engineering, software development, and psychological research related to sound perception.

Many former students find opportunities within major technology companies, research laboratories, and higher education institutions. The skills acquired in computational analysis and acoustic science are highly valued in industries focused on digital media, consumer electronics, and musical instrument innovation.

Programme Structure

Courses included:

CCRMA Colloquium

Fundamentals of Computer-Generated Sound

Psychophysics and Music Cognition

Intermedia Workshop

Music, Computing, Design I: Art of Design for Computer Music

Audio Signal Processing Part I: Spectrum Analysis

Audio Signal Processing Part II: Digital Filters

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 24 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-22 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-10 00:00:00

Language

English

TOEFL^® IBT

100

Schedule TOEFL®

Credits

45 alternative credits

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Stanford, United States

Disciplines

Music Sound Engineering View 34 other Masters in Sound Engineering in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

100

Schedule TOEFL®

Other requirements

General requirements

Applicants must hold, or expect to hold before enrollment at Stanford, a bachelor’s degree from a U.S. college or university accredited by a regional accrediting association.
Applicants from institutions outside the U.S. must hold the equivalent of a U.S. bachelor’s degree from a college or university of recognized standing. See minimum level of study required of International applicants.
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) scores are required of all applicants whose first language is not English.
International students enrolled must be able to read English with ease, understand rapid idiomatic English as used in lectures and group discussions.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

42360 USD / year

≈ 42360 USD / year
Out-of-State

42360 USD / year

≈ 42360 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

42360 USD / year

≈ 42360 USD / year

Additional Details

per quarter

Living costs

Stanford

United States

1100 - 1600 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

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Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Computer-Based Music Theory and Acoustics.

Available Scholarships

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