Thesis Proposal
The thesis is original scholarship and makes a distinct contribution to knowledge. It shows familiarity with previous work in the field and demonstrates the ability to plan and carry out research, organize findings, and defend the approach and conclusions in a scholarly manner. It is succinct and reflects the standards of the discipline, recognizing the value of music and music research beyond the 鈥渁cademia鈥�.
Dissertation Proposal
A dissertation proposal will be prepared for presentation and discussion, under guidance of the supervisor(s), usually following the successful completion of the comprehensive examinations and required courses. At the time of submission of the proposal, a date will be suggested for the Proposal Oral Presentation which is to occur in the same semester. The goal of the dissertation proposal is to provide an opportunity for the student and committee to constructively feed back on the research protocol and ensure:
- The research questions are relevant, specific and achievable;
- The project has a feasible, reasonable and realistic design and timeline, appropriate for a Ph.D. thesis;
- The student has the opportunity to review the thesis work and receive feedback at an early stage of research design development;
- The student has an opportunity to gain experience in developing and presenting a research protocol.
Format of the dissertation proposal
A complete dissertation proposal consists of the following elements:
- The main body of the proposal (2 pages, Arial 11 pt., double space, submitted as PDF) should include the following elements:
- Title; Research question or objectives; Rationale (theoretical and practical relevance of the project, review of previous work and existing gaps, and new knowledge to be obtained); Research design; Contributions and applications; knowledge mobilization and translation strategy.
- 1-page proposed Table of Contents for the thesis (this may differ from the structure of the proposal)
- A reference list including all sources listed in the main body of the proposal (2-3 pages).
- Completed Ph.D./D.Mus. Dissertation Proposal Form including confirmation of REB Ethics Submission/Approval if required.
Oral Presentation Proposal
The proposal should be submitted in the semester (excluding summer) immediately following the candidate's completion of their comprehensive examinations. The primary readerships of the proposal are the main supervisor(s) and members of Proposal Oral Presentation committee. After submission, you should agree with your supervisor(s) a date to discuss and approve the proposal which is to occur in the same semester.
The oral presentation committee will consist of three members:
- The candidate鈥檚 supervisory committee
- A third committee member from another area who will serve as Committee Chair.
The oral presentation will consist of