Funding

Every student accepted into the D.M.A. in Composition program at Cornell receives four years of guaranteed funding, including financial support for three summers. Every student is given a fellowship for the first year; the remaining semester of fellowship is usually taken in the fourth year, or may be deferred if outside funding is procured by the student. The remaining 2.5 years of funding are in the form of teaching assistantships. Student Health Insurance is provided under fellowship and teaching assistantships. Partners, spouses, and dependants can be included for additional charges.

Although it is possible to complete the D.M.A within four years, most students require more time. When possible the department may offer additional semesters of teaching, but such support is not guaranteed. Many students seek outside fellowships beginning in their fourth third year. There are also a few dissertation fellowships available through various Cornell programs.  Entering students are encouraged to apply for Javits, Mellon, or other outside fellowships as another means of extending their graduate support.  For a list of external and internal graduate fellowships (searchable by keyword, program name, or deadline) see the Graduate School Fellowship Database.

The Department of Music offers a wide variety of teaching experiences, and students are free to request a specific teaching assignment. The faculty makes every effort to match interest and skill to course offerings.  Learn More »