:format(webp)/799x0:4001x3202/prod01/channel_5/courses/media/maynooth/content-assets/course-images/Branded20Jumper.jpg)
MA MUSIC, CULTURE AND PRACTICE
- Qualification
- Master Of Arts Degree
- CAO/MU Apply code
- MHT69
- Award Type and NFQ level
- TAUGHT MASTERS (9)
- Study Mode
- Part time
- Closing Date
- 27 August 2027
Overview
Our innovative MA in Music, Culture, and Practice is grounded in cutting-edge academic and creative research, positioning students at the forefront of scholarly exploration.
Collaborating with esteemed international scholars in the Department's key disciplines of musicology and/or performance, students explore a core curriculum that focuses on honing research and creative skills in these areas.
This is complemented by a diverse range of electives that cater to individual specialisation in musicology or performance, or while also allowing students to maintain a more diverse programme of study. This comprehensive degree equips students with the tools required to pursue musicological and/or practice-based research, to foster specialisation and to nurture independent scholarship.
Immersed in a vibrant and collaborative research culture, students will enrich their academic experience by regularly interacting with visiting seminar speakers, performers, and composers. A distinctive feature of our programme is the inclusion of an elective placement component, providing students with practical experiences that enhance their academic and professional growth.
Course structure
Duration: 2 years part-time
The programme consists of a mandatory core totalling 60 ECTS, incorporating a specialised individual component in the form of a Capstone Project (thesis, performance, or other agreed research artefact).
Additionally, three 10-ECTS modules—Research Methods, Writing About Music, and Creative Collaboration and Dissemination—are designed to be ‘pathway flexible’, accommodating a diverse range of entrants under the music umbrella, including musicologists, performers, and composers.
These unique modules foster interaction among different learners, cultivating core academic skills while simulating real-world professional scenarios that integrate academic discourse with creative work.
Notably, the Writing About Music module employs a distinctive delivery method, primarily through online evening classes complemented by two on-campus workshops. This module is accessible to external applicants as a microcredential, enhancing the potential for building professional networks among students. Industry specialists play a crucial role in delivering this module, engaging students in activities such as music journalism, broadcasting, publicity, arts administration, and funding.
Augmenting these core modules are 30 ECTS of elective modules, providing students the flexibility to specialise (e.g., in musicology or performance) or mix and match modules to maintain breadth.
A unique feature is the Placement Module, organised in collaboration with external industry partners like Irish National Opera, Irish Traditional Music Archive, and the Contemporary Music Centre, which offers students invaluable professional experiences and connections to potential employers. Contact time for each module is detailed in the module descriptors.
Disclaimer
The modules below are indicative of the content associated with this course of study.
The modules are subject to change as the curriculum is revised and reviewed annually.
Important: The information on this page is for prospective students, MU current students and staff should use Programme Directory.
Year 1
Year 2
Careers after your Masters
Our graduates typically go on to successful careers in the Creative Arts, in Music Industry, Music Broadcasting, Music Journalism, Music Administration and/or Teaching in established institutions in Ireland and internationally.
Entry Requirements
Applicants must hold a minimum of a Bachelor Honours degree (NFQ Level 8) or equivalent with a minimum of Second-Class Honours, Grade 2 (2:2) in Music or a cognate discipline.
If you do not meet the standard entry requirements then you may be eligible to apply under the University's Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy. Please click here for further information.
Applicants for whom English is not their first language are required to demonstrate their proficiency in English in order to benefit fully from their course of study. For information about English language tests accepted and required scores, please see here.
How to apply
Applications must be made via the MU Apply portal. Please click here to start your application.
When making your application, please ensure you prepare any documents listed below. You may be required to submit documents in two stages. You will be required to upload and submit the following documents with your application:
- Full academic transcripts for all semesters/ years completed to date
- Graduation Certificate if you have graduated
- A copy of your passport
- Up to date CV
If English is not your first language, you may be required to upload evidence of English language proficiency. For information please click here.