Music: Further study

A 2011 HESA survey of 2010 graduates indicates that six months after graduation 26% of music graduates went on to do further study or a combination of work and further study.

Some graduates choose to study an area related to their first degree or one that allows them to specialise, for example in composition. Others pursue a range of qualifications, in areas such as music performance, direction and instrumental/vocal teaching, awarded by bodies such as The Associated Board of Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM) . When thinking about further study, you may consider a purely academic music qualification or degree options in community music, cultural management or musicology.

Some music graduates gain experience and then take further qualifications in order to move into music therapy or related fields such as nursing. Teaching is another popular option requiring further vocational study.

These trends show only what previous graduates in your subject did immediately upon graduating. Over the course of their career - the first few years in particular - many others will opt for some form of further study, either part time or full time. If further study interests you, start by thinking about postgraduate study in the UK and search courses and research to identify your options.

For details relating to finance and the application process, look at funding my further study.