Candidates for both the MMus and MA are normally expected to hold a good honours (at least 2:2) degree, or its overseas equivalent, in a subject area relevant to the demands of the programme.
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
Our conducting programmes provide you with the comprehensive and integrated training required of a professional conductor.
You will concentrate on the technique and craft of conducting through diverse practical experience with the Royal Conservatoire orchestras, our opera department, and various classical and contemporary ensembles.
Our extensive professional links in Glasgow and across Scotland offer unmatched opportunities to work with and observe the Royal Scottish National Orchestra, the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, the Red Note Ensemble, the Orchestra of Scottish Opera and the Scottish Chamber Orchestra. Students at the RCS have masterclasses each year under the guidance of Professor Martyn Brabbins and other conductors with the BBC SSO and RSNO.
Under the guidance of Professor Martyn Brabbins and Conducting Lecturer Michael Bawtree, you will have individual and group lessons, aural classes, discussion forums with industry professionals and the chance to engage with the extensive and varied opportunities that Glasgow – Scotland’s largest and most musically vibrant city – has to offer.
In addition to the MMus/MA programme, the Royal Conservatoire also offers a highly prestigious two-year Conducting Fellowship.
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
MMus
full time
24 months
Campus-based learningis available for this qualification
part time
48 months
Campus-based learningis available for this qualification
MA
full time
12 months
Campus-based learningis available for this qualification
The MMus is the standard two-year programme undertaken by most students.
The MA is a shortened version of the programme for students who wish to get a Masters degree in a single year of study.
The first three terms of the MMus and MA are identical: MA students complete a further module in term 4 to complete the degree in a single year. There is no difference in the nature of the degrees: both concentrate mainly on performance rather than academic work.
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The MMus in Conducting can be studied part-time across three or four years. The possible patterns are:
Stage 1 full time, Stage 2 part time over two years (three years total)
Stage 1 part time over two years, Stage 2 full time (three years total)
Stage 1 part time over two years, Stage 2 part time over two years (four years total)
No MA programme may be taken part-time. Please note international students on student visas are not permitted to undertake any of the part-time routes.
Your part-time programme will be negotiated individually, but will typically involve spreading your Principal Study tuition over two years, with B assessment/s in the first part-time year and the A assessment as the culmination of the second. Supporting Studies activities will be distributed across the two years, while any Options chosen will occupy a single part-time year.
Please note, if you wish to apply to undertake this programme part-time there will be a separate instance on UCAS.
