ObjectivesThe MMus (Master of Music) is a flexible degree programme allowing specialisation in performance, composition or musicology as well as advanced study of music and its criticism.
Entry requirementsIt is aimed at those who have a particular interest in pursuing their study of music to a higher level and equips students with a wide range of transferable skills.
Academic titleMMus in Performance, Composition or Musicology
Course descriptionObtaining the MMus opens up career possibilities both in music and in many other fields where skills in critical enquiry and a demonstration of advanced aptitude are essential.
It is available on either a full-time or a part-time basis, and attendance commitments are consolidated to one or two days a week so as to maximise flexibility and personal study time.
PROGRAMME CONTENT
Those undertaking the MMus will not only develop skills in their chosen specialist field of performance, composition or musicology but will also acquire a wide range of other, transferable skills in critical reasoning and intellectual inquiry.
Compulsory modules in Musicological Contexts and Research Methods and an extended written study, comprising a third of the total credits, offer those who pursue the MMus the chance to undertake closely guided research. Regular contact with academic staff ensures that supervision is productive and geared to each student’s needs and abilities.
Composition covers a broad spectrum of techniques from film scoring through concert music to educational music.
Likewise, the Musicology pathway offers a broad range of options from editing to critical musicological studies, depending on the student’s own interests.
CORE MODULES
-Musicological Contexts (20 credits)
-Research Methods (20 credits)
-Special Study (60 credits) – a dissertation of 7,000-10,000 words depending on the nature of the practical components
OPTIONAL MODULES
Performance
-Music Recital I (20 credits)
-Music Recital II (20 credits)
-Performance Studies I (20 credits)
-Performance Studies II (20 credits)
Composition
-Techniques of Composition I (20 credits)
-Techniques of Composition II (20 credits)
-Composition I (20 credits)
-Composition II (20 credits)
Musicology
-Musicology I (40 credits)
-Musicology II (40 credits)
ASSESSMENT
Depending on the pathway chosen, assessment will involve presentation, written submissions and, if selected, performance. There are no written examinations.
SPECIAL FEATURES
-Our Grade 5 rating at the last RAE in 2001 placed us among the top departments for research in the UK.
-We have state-of-the-art recording and editing facilities and a very well stocked music library collection.
-Our graduates have a good track record in obtaining employment within music.
-The course is supplemented by a range of international visiting speakers (composers, performers, academics), exposing students to a wide range of key figures in the field.
-We have a good staff–student ratio, and personal supervision is an essential part of the programme.