Popular Music MA

Entry requirements

Applicants will normally hold a 2:2 in Music or similar field. Where applicants are not progressing directly from a degree, professional experience and expertise may be taken into account. Applicants will be expected to attend an audition and/or interview in order to demonstrate their suitability for the course.

Months of entry

October

Course content

Advance Your Artistry in Popular Music

The MA in Popular Music at the University of Chester is designed for musicians, composers, producers, and musicologists aiming to deepen their creative practice and theoretical understanding. Whether you're an emerging artist or an experienced practitioner, this course offers a dynamic environment to refine your skills and explore new dimensions of popular music and performance.​

Tailored Learning Experience

This modular course allows you to shape your study around your interests. Core modules provide a foundation in research methodologies and analytical approaches and optional modules enable you to delve into specific areas of interest. The final phase culminates in a substantial project - be it a large-scale performance, workshop, lecture, or event - that will showcase your unique contribution to the field.

Expert Guidance and Support

Throughout the course, you'll be matched with staff who share your interests and can guide you in your explorations and discoveries. Teaching methods include lectures, tutorials, seminars, and workshops, fostering an environment that encourages both independent and collaborative learning. Assessment methods are diverse, encompassing performances, essays, practical presentations, lecture demonstrations, oral assessments, and portfolios of original music.

Industry Standard Facilities at Creative Campus, Kingsway

Your studies will take place at our Creative Campus, Kingsway, a vibrant hub for the arts. The campus boasts 6,920 square metres of floor space, including a 200-seat lecture theatre, rehearsal and performance studios, a learning resource centre, subject-specific IT labs (housing 200 Macs and PCs) and a catering outlet. You'll also have access to fully equipped rehearsal and performance studios, an outdoor performance space, intimate indoor venues, sound and video editing suites, computer suites, video cameras, lighting rigs, and the latest technology for recording (for both live sound and film). These facilities provide an inspiring setting for you to create, collaborate, and showcase your work.​

Flexible Study Options

The MA Popular Music course offers flexibility to suit your schedule, with options for full-time study over one year or part-time study over two years.

Career Opportunities and Progression

Graduates of this course have pursued careers as performing musicians, composers, producers, educators, and researchers. Alumni have found employment in further and higher education, as peripatetic teachers for county music services, and in private schools. The course encourages autonomous work on large-scale projects, enabling you to situate your unique role within the industry. The division's 'Creative Futures' week of visiting industry professionals provides excellent networking opportunities for students developing their emerging careers. Additionally, the University's Careers and Employability service offers various employability-enhancing experiences, including curriculum support, employer contact, tailored group sessions, individual advice, and guidance.

Ready to Take the Next Step

Discover more about the course and how to apply: https://www.chester.ac.uk/study/how-to-apply/postgraduate/

Information for international students

https://www.chester.ac.uk/international/

Fees and funding

https://www.chester.ac.uk/student-life/fees-and-finance/postgraduate-funding/