Taught course
Advanced Artist Diploma in Music Performance
Entry requirements
Academic Requirements
Candidates for the Advanced Artist Diploma are normally expected to hold a Masters degree in Music, or its overseas equivalent.
English Language Requirements
The language of study at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland (RCS) is English. All applicants whose first language is not English will be required to provide evidence that their English language level meets the entrance requirements.
The required IELTS level for this programme is 6.0 overall with a minimum score of 5.5 in each component.
Full details of the English language tests and equivalencies we accept can be found on our English Language Requirements page.
Months of entry
September
Course content
The one-year Advanced Artist Diploma is designed to enable singers and instrumentalists to make a significant and original contribution to their chosen artistic sphere, and demonstrate outstanding public performance skills commensurate with those of a professional artist.
The performance strand will offer you the time and space to develop your artistry through a largely autonomous programme of study, supported by supervision in the principal study. You will have the opportunity to take part in a wide range of School of Music activities alongside the wider artistic environment of the Conservatoire.
The Advanced Artist Diploma is a doctoral level award validated by the University of St Andrews at SCQF level 12, equivalent to level 8 on the FHEQ.
The AdvArtDip is available to performers in the following disciplines:
- All string, woodwind and brass instruments, solo, chamber or orchestral
- Guitar and harp
- Timpani and percussion, including marimba
- Piano solo and collaborative, harpsichord, organ, accordion
- Traditional performance
- Jazz performance
It is not available for Conducting, Composition, Piano for Dance, or Repetiteurship.
Information for international students
You can find information for international students on our dedicated webpage.
Fees and funding
UK students
7320
International students
14471
Tuition Fees
For academic year 2025/26:
Home: £7,320
International: £14,471
Please note these fees are subject to change.
Funding & Scholarships
Please note, this programme is not eligible for US Federal Loans or for Government funding support, so must be self-funded by the applicant.
You can find out about the funding and scholarships available for studying at RCS by visiting our dedicated page:
Cost of Living & Programme Costs
In addition to tuition fees, it is estimated that you will need between £11,200 and £15,300 per year to live in Glasgow, plus programme costs. Much will depend on your lifestyle and whether your course runs for three or four terms.
Programmes within the School of Music have a range of associated costs related to the specific activities required and advised by the programme team. You can find an indication of these costs here.
Qualification, course duration and attendance options
- AdvDip
- full time12 months
- Campus-based learningis available for this qualification
Course contact details
- Name
- Admissions
- admissions@rcs.ac.uk