MA in Sound and Music
Interdisciplinary master’s programme exploring composition, instrument design, musicology, performance, and recording through collaborative research.
Best for:Best for creative professionals and graduates with a passion for music, sound design, or performance who seek to deepen their expertise through interdisciplinary research and collaboration.
Overview
The MA in Sound and Music at Queen’s University Belfast offers specialised study across diverse music disciplines, including composition, instrument design, musicology, performance, and recording. This programme fosters interdisciplinary collaboration, enabling students to explore a broad range of topics through both individual research and group projects. It is designed for graduates with a background in music, performing arts, art and design, media production, ethnomusicology, or creative technologies. The curriculum blends theoretical and practical approaches, encouraging creative experimentation and scholarly inquiry in sound and music studies.
What you'll do
- Develop specialised skills in a chosen music discipline such as composition, instrument design, musicology, performance, or recording.
- Engage in collaborative projects that integrate diverse music and sound-related fields.
- Conduct individual research projects under academic supervision, culminating in a thesis or creative portfolio.
- Participate in workshops, seminars, and performances that foster interdisciplinary learning.
- Explore innovative approaches to sound and music through creative experimentation and scholarly inquiry.
Requirements
Degree required: Normally a minimum of a 2.2 Honours degree or equivalent qualification in a relevant subject, including music, performing arts, art and design, media production, ethnomusicology, or creative technologies. Extensive relevant professional experience may also be considered.
Degree offered: MA (Master of Arts)
Language: English; IELTS score of 7.0 with no less than 6.0 in any component, or equivalent qualification acceptable to the University (taken within the last 2 years).
Instruction: English
- Demonstrable skills in a relevant music or sound-related discipline (e.g., composition, performance, instrument design, or recording).
- Ability to produce original creative work (e.g., compositions, performances, or sound installations).
- Strong written and verbal communication skills for academic and creative discourse.
- Applicants with extensive relevant professional experience may apply via Recognition of Prior Experiential Learning (RPEL) and must submit a statement with a sample of original work and contextual paragraph.
- RPEL applicants must provide a link to an online recording (e.g., performance, sound installation, instrument design, or composition) not exceeding 10 minutes.
- International students must meet UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) English language requirements for visa purposes.
Funding & terms
Programme and admissions
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- Intake
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- Prerequisites
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- Tuition
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How to apply
Deadline: 2026-08-14
Applicants are advised to apply as early as possible through the university’s official application portal. The application process involves submitting academic transcripts, a personal statement, and any required supporting documents. For RPEL applicants, a statement with a sample of original work and a contextual paragraph must be included. International students must also provide proof of English language proficiency.
- CV or curriculum vitae
- Personal statement or application essay
- Academic transcripts (Bachelor’s degree and any relevant Master’s degree)
- Two letters of recommendation (if applicable)
- Proof of English language proficiency (IELTS or equivalent)
- RPEL statement with sample of original work and contextual paragraph (for relevant applicants)
Contact
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