MA Music

Why choose this course?

If you have a broad range of musical interests and would prefer not to specialise your studies, this course is ideal. It aims to develop a range of musical and critical skills and knowledge; encourage initiative, creativity, critical evaluation and independence of thought; develop a systematic understanding of relevant musical knowledge and a critical awareness of contemporary issues; and provide knowledge of research practices, enabling you to undertake a substantial individual dissertation or composition project.

What you will study

The core modules on this Music MA concentrate on research methods and colloquia, and will introduce you to a broad range of issues in music. Subjects are based in music education, performance, composing for media, and music production.

Teaching and assessment

Our Music MA allows you to design your own programme of study to match your interests, strengths and career aspirations. You select three optional modules from a wide range of music topics and/or closely related subjects. You undertake a variety of forms of assessment, including essays, critiques, position papers, ensemble performances, a portfolio of compositions/recordings, practical projects, recording projects, presentations, research papers and a dissertation.

After you graduate

A high proportion of Music MA graduates go on to work in the music profession itself, in related areas or in teaching - or enrol for further study (eg PGCE, MPhil or PhD). For those students who are already in employment and undertake the course part-time, the award may accelerate promotion and open up new opportunities.