COURSE CURRICULUM

The Musicology MA is designed to provide students with a thorough grounding in musicological theory, research, and practice, combining critical, aesthetic, and applied approaches to the study of music. Core modules such as Issues in Musicology, Applied Research Methodologies, and Critical and Aesthetic Theory develop students’ understanding of key debates, theoretical frameworks, and research methods in the field, equipping them to analyse music from historical, cultural, and contemporary perspectives. The program also emphasizes practical and applied skills, allowing students to explore musicological questions through hands-on projects, archival work, or creative practice. Optional modules provide flexibility to tailor the degree to individual interests, with choices including a dissertation, applied musicology project, composition studies, short recital, case studies in music psychology, and industry-focused modules such as The Recording Industry Now. Through these options, students can specialise in areas ranging from performance and composition to research, pedagogy, or music industry practice. The course encourages the development of independent and critical thinking, as well as practical skills in analysis, presentation, and communication, enabling students to undertake substantial projects that reflect their academic interests and career aspirations. Graduates gain the knowledge and expertise to pursue further research, professional roles in music and cultural institutions, or careers in applied musicology, performance, and education.