Study Fee: Click here to view the t(/study-fee)uition and subscription options.(/study-fee)(/study-fee) Monthly study plans start from €499 per month, depending on the program and level of academic support selected.

Study Method: This program is delivered 100% online, allowing students to study from anywhere in the world with flexible scheduling. Students may also have the option to attend the graduation ceremony in Switzerland, subject to visa approval and travel regulations.

Study Language: The program is delivered in English. Students are expected to have sufficient English language proficiency to complete the coursework and academic requirements.

Applications can be submitted online through our admission portal.(/apply)(/apply) Applicants may also contact or visit our offices in different regions, including: • Europe: Switzerland • GCC: Dubai (UAE) • Asia: Bishkek Our admissions team will guide you through the application and enrollment process.

Programs are offered through a flexible monthly subscription system, allowing students to progress at their own pace while maintaining access to academic resources and support services.

This program has a minimum study period depending on the academic level and program structure. Students may complete the program at their own pace while maintaining an active monthly subscription.

Admission Requirements

Applicants should meet the academic entry requirements for the respective program level. Typical requirements may include: • A previous academic qualification relevant to the program level • A copy of passport or national ID • Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume • Completed online application form Additional documents may be requested depending on the program and the institution delivering the program.

Certification / Degree Awarded

Upon successful completion of all academic requirements, students will receive the corresponding certificate or academic degree issued by the responsible institution within the VBNN Smart Education Group network.

Doctorate in Music

Feb 20
2 min read

This doctorate study program is a 100% research-based academic pathway designed for experienced musicians, scholars, composers, music educators, and cultural leaders who seek to contribute original knowledge to the field of Music. Positioned at a study level equal to EQF Level 8 and aligned with the Third European Cycle, the program emphasizes advanced scholarly inquiry, critical reflection, and high-level research competence within diverse musical traditions and contemporary artistic practices.

With a minimum duration of 18 months and flexible extension options, the program is structured to accommodate professionals and international researchers who wish to pursue rigorous doctoral-level research while maintaining academic and professional commitments.

The academic structure consists of seven modules:

Four advanced research modules focusing on research design, qualitative and quantitative methodologies in music studies, advanced music analysis, academic writing for publication, and research innovation.
Two general doctoral-level modules strengthening interdisciplinary perspectives, ethics in research, philosophy of art, higher education pedagogy, and leadership in cultural and academic contexts.
One specialized module in Music, addressing advanced themes such as musicology, composition and creative research, performance studies, ethnomusicology, music technology, contemporary music industries, or cultural policy in music.

The program culminates in independent thesis and research activities that require candidates to produce an original scholarly contribution to the discipline. Research may be theoretical, analytical, historical, interdisciplinary, or practice-based, encouraging innovation and intellectual depth.

This doctorate study program is designed to cultivate academic independence, methodological excellence, and the ability to critically engage with music as an art form, cultural expression, and global industry. It prepares graduates for senior roles in academia, research institutions, conservatories, cultural organizations, creative industries, and policy development in the arts sector.

Participants develop advanced competencies in research leadership, scholarly publication, complex musical analysis, and the integration of artistic creativity with scientific inquiry—positioning them at the forefront of contemporary music scholarship and innovation.