Computer Music

Entry requirements

For entry to postgraduate level, you should normally possess:

• a first or upper second (2:1) degree with honours or professional qualification, recognised as being equivalent to degree standard; or
• an ordinary degree, foundation degree, higher national diploma, or university diploma, accompanied by substantial experience in an appropriate field.

Months of entry

September

Course content

Today, computers are absolutely essential for music. And future developments in computing and Artificial Intelligence will have an impact on all professions that involve music. Whether you’re a graduate from the arts and humanities, science and/or technology, we’ll help you to harness computing technology to develop your passion for music.

Immersed in a thriving research centre, our future-facing programme offers the opportunity to study what it takes to make an impact to the future of the music professions.

Key features:

• Work as part of a global research centre – the Interdisciplinary Centre for Computer Music Research (ICCMR) – with staff, PhD students and post-doctoral researchers from all over the world.
• Balance your work commitments and further education with the opportunity to study part time for a Master level qualification.
• Gain the skills necessary to progress towards studying for a doctorate degree.
• Develop a negotiated Master’s project to develop your own research interests. Projects can range from developing approaches to composition and performance using computers, to inventing new systems for music and audio production for a variety of applications.
• Enjoy access to music rehearsal and recording facilities, including individual practice rooms, a professional recording environment, digital audio workstations, and instrumental facilities ranging from Steinway and Bosendorfer pianos to valve guitar amps, electronic keyboards, and analogue synthesisers.
• A range of societies and groups are on offer for students to participate, such as a gospel choir, concert band, ukulele society, gamelan group, orchestra, and many more.
• The teaching team recognises and supports musicians from a variety of backgrounds and promotes stylistic freedom, exploration, and creative risk-taking.
• Plymouth offers a vibrant cultural scene, and beautiful rural surroundings and sea coast. Plymouth promotes tolerance and diversity. The University is located at the heart of the city centre. It is not in a remote campus separating students from the city’s vibrant life.

Information for international students

If you are an overseas applicant you can check the comparability of your qualifications with Ecctis, which provides an advisory service.

English language requirement

If English is not your first language, you must have proficiency in written and spoken English (normally a minimum test score of 6.5 for IELTS, or equivalent). Given the nature of the programme, you’ll be expected to read and engage with complex theoretical texts and debates for which fluency in English is essential.