COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Music by Research is a graduate program designed to develop advanced research skills, deepen understanding of contemporary musical practice, and cultivate expertise in a chosen discipline. Students are enrolled in the Research Project (MMus) for the duration of their candidature, which typically spans one and a half years full-time, with the possibility of a six-month extension. The program emphasizes independent research while providing access to supervision and guidance from experienced academics. Candidates are expected to participate in research seminars, intensive research weekends, and, where relevant, performance classes, ensuring that both scholarly and practical aspects of their discipline are supported throughout the course. The final submission varies according to the student’s chosen discipline and may include a written thesis, a combination of creative and written work, or a folio of compositions or performances. In Composition, students produce a folio of works totaling 45–60 minutes and a dissertation of approximately 10,000 words, which together constitute the thesis. Interactive Composition students develop a 60-minute creative project incorporating music and other media. Jazz and Improvisation students submit a combined performance and written work equivalent to 40,000 words. Music Performance candidates prepare a live recital of 60–70 minutes with an integrated written component of 8,000–10,000 words. Music Psychology, Music Therapy, and Musicology/Ethnomusicology students undertake significant research projects with theses ranging from 30,000 to 40,000 words, or, in some cases, smaller theses accompanied by electives or critical studies. This program allows students to explore areas such as performance science, psychology of music, compositional practice, and ethnomusicology, integrating theory with practice. By completing the Master of Music by Research, graduates gain expertise in research methodologies, critical thinking, creative practice, and scholarly writing, preparing them for careers in professional performance, academic research, or further doctoral study. The course ensures that each student develops a highly specialised and original contribution to their chosen field while engaging with the wider research and artistic community.