Music

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a 2:2 degree or equivalent professional experience or learning in a related field.

Applications from all candidates will be considered on their merits in the light of the nature and scope of the programme.

A detailed admissions procedure will be forwarded on application.

IELTS: Score of 6.5 or above.

A high level of achievement in undergraduate studies at a university elsewhere such as North America: Minimum overall GPA of 3.3 on a 4.0 scale.

Months of entry

September

Course content

This course can be studied 1 year full-time or part-time over 2 years. The course is delivered through evening classes and one-to-one tutorials at mutually convenient times.

Our MA Music course is ideal if you’re a musician who’s interested in developing your music practice and increasing your profile as a professional artist.

On this course you’ll discover ways of taking your music practice in different directions. You’ll be given the freedom to experiment with bold, new ideas and acquire the skills required by professional artists.

There will be opportunities to carry out projects which will lead to your work being presented to the public. The flexible modules on offer allow you to explore everything from instrumental and studio composition to interdisciplinary and multimedia pieces, installation art, community projects and more.

During your time with us you’ll build up an impressive portfolio of musical works while developing other valuable skills in arts promotion, managing and archiving public events, project management and more.

Why study with us

• This course is taught by professional artists who are established leaders in their fields.
• Working alongside established musicians, you’ll learn how to make the most of opportunities as a practicing musician and advance your career.
• You’ll have access to specialist equipment, rehearsal rooms, studios, the library and other University facilities.

What you'll do

• You’ll have the chance to get involved in our annual cJAM employability event, which gives you face-to-face time with up to 30 industry professionals offering valuable work placement opportunities.
• You can get involved in organising and taking part in events organised by the music team such as the Preston Jazz & Improvisation Festival and the Something for Everyone community arts workshops.
• You could have your music released through one of our associates or on the University’s own X-Periments in Sound record label.

Learning and assessment

The course is delivered through a combination of evening classes and one-to-one tutorials at mutually convenient times.

Throughout your studies you’ll be asked to carry out directed reading and listening, participate in discussions and attend workshops. These will enable you to take your existing music in different directions and prepare you to perform in front of an audience.

You’ll typically be assessed on your portfolio of music, an arts project, and a research project. You’ll work with your tutors to set targets and agree on deadlines for yourself.

You’ll learn alongside a diverse variety of music practitioners and be supported by tutors whose expertise covers a wide variety of music practices.

Further information

The course is geared towards students who prepare their work through devising, composition, studio composition or improvisation. You’ll typically perform your own music, either solo or as part of an ensemble.

However, we also welcome applicants who prefer to direct other musicians, as well as anyone with an interest in audio art, multimedia art or interdisciplinary performance.

The MA in Music can be used as the first year of the DProf in Creative Practice for those students who want to continue studying to doctorate level.

Information for international students

Visit our website for further information.