Entry requirements

Academic Requirements

As the second cycle of higher education, postgraduate study represents a continuation of learning, training and/or experience rather than a beginning.

However, we recognise that traditional application processes, which show a bias towards prior learning and achievement, can perpetuate existing societal inequities, favouring those who already benefit. For this reason, we embrace the principles of widening access and participation and, whilst prior qualifications and experience may be taken into account, our application process places emphasis on students’ values, potential and readiness for Master’s level study.

This is in accordance with the RCS Admissions Policy (including the Contextualised Admissions Policy).

In fully supporting learners from diverse backgrounds, students may be required to complete successfully additional modules in criticality and academic writing, offered by the RCS, prior to commencing the Masters.

English Language Requirements

The language of study is English. Applicants whose first language is not English will be required to provide evidence of proficiency in English. We accept the International English Language Testing System score (IELTS) (if applicable) Level 7.0 with a minimum score of 7.0 in speaking and with a minimum score of 6.5 in all parts.

Full details of the English language tests and equivalencies we accept can be found on our English Language Requirements page.

Accreditation of Prior and Experiential Learning (APEL)

In some cases, applicants to the programme may already have achieved academic credit on another programme of study and are seeking to reduce the number of modules they will need to study on the programme. Applications for APEL will normally be decided prior to the applicant’s admission to the Royal Conservatoire.

Months of entry

August, September

Course content

This MA programme is for people with a strong interest or established practice in music. It can be studied as blended learning (online and intensive weekends at RCS) or fully online. This programme will develop your thinking and encourage your curiosity about the role music plays in our lives. You will gain a rich understanding of its significance and influence on the human mind.

Over the 2-year programme you will be supported by the RCS music psychology team to explore three key areas of music psychology: developmental, performance and social. In addition, you will develop robust research skills before embarking on your own bespoke research project.

The programme is designed to fit alongside professional work schedules, with flexible lecture and seminar times to ensure no matter where you are in the world you can attend and feel part of this growing community.

We are looking for individuals from all walks of life ready to challenge their perceptions, explore the intersections of music and psychology, and make a positive impact on the world. You should be open to new and diverse views and be hungry to be part of the next generation of dynamic creative practitioners, looking to shape the future of music psychology.

We warmly invite you to come and join our diverse and international community of learners.

Information for international students

Please visit our international student page.

Fees and funding

UK students

£8,077

International students

£8,077

Tuition Fees

For academic year 2025/26:

Home: £8,077

International: £8,077

Please note these fees are subject to change.

Funding & Scholarships

You can find out about the funding and scholarships available for studying at RCS by visiting our dedicated page.

Cost of Living & Programme Costs

This course can be studied fully online. For any students who would like to move to Glasgow to pursue hybrid learning on the programme, it is estimated that you will need between £11,200 and £15,300 per year to live here, though much will depend on your lifestyle.

Qualification, course duration and attendance options

MA
part time
24 months
- Distance learningis available for this qualification
- Online learningis available for this qualification

Course contact details

Name: Admissions
Email: admissions@rcs.ac.uk

Visit website

Psychology (Music)