COURSE CURRICULUM

The BA in Music program is structured across four years to develop students’ performance, creativity and academic understanding through a mix of core modules and electives. In Year 1, students focus on foundational performance skills, Irish World Academy practicum modules, and critical studies of Irish, world, popular, and Western art music, alongside elective choices such as languages, literature, songwriting, and dance. Year 2 builds on this with more advanced performance modules, studies in global pop, music theory, technology, and vocational studies, while continuing elective exploration in areas like composition, ensemble work, and cultural studies. In Year 3, students undertake a cooperative education work placement, gaining real-world experience, followed by further performance development, research skills in ethnomusicology, and modules exploring arts and health, supported by elective options. Year 4 emphasizes advanced performance, professional skills, and independent research through a final year project completed over two semesters, alongside continued practicum work. Throughout the program, students can tailor their learning through a wide range of electives including music composition, interdisciplinary arts, languages, and digital media. Overall, the course combines practical training, academic study, and professional preparation to support diverse careers in the global music and creative industries.