Master of Arts -Music

The Master of Arts in Music program at the University of Canterbury is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of music theory, history, composition, performance, and research methodologies.

Curriculum: The curriculum covers a broad spectrum of musical genres, historical periods, and theoretical frameworks. It includes modules on music theory, composition, musicology, performance, and interdisciplinary studies. Students explore diverse musical cultures and genres, enhancing their understanding of music as an art form.

Research Focus: The program emphasizes research skills, offering students opportunities to conduct in-depth research projects in musicology, ethnomusicology, composition, or performance practice. It encourages critical thinking and independent study through research-based coursework.

Industry Engagement: Students have opportunities for industry engagement through performances, collaborations with local and international artists, workshops, and internships with music institutions or organizations. This engagement helps students develop practical skills and professional networks within the music industry.

Global Perspective: The curriculum incorporates a global perspective, exposing students to various musical traditions, cultures, and practices worldwide. This approach broadens students' cultural understanding and encourages them to explore music within a global context.

Postgraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs usually need a bachelor's degree or an equivalent qualification from a recognized institution. The entry requirement may specify a minimum score of 50% or higher in the previous academic degree.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall score of 6.5 or 7.0, with no band below 6.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 90 with no individual section below 19.
• PTE: Overall score of 58, with a minimum of 50 in each section.

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

Work experience: Some postgraduate courses may require relevant work experience in the field.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

The University of Canterbury is dedicated to providing support to international students through various scholarship programs designed to recognize academic excellence, diversity, and specific areas of achievement. These scholarships aim to ease the financial burden and promote educational opportunities for talented individuals from around the world.

UC International First Year Scholarships: Geared towards high-achieving international students beginning their first year of study at UC. These scholarships acknowledge exceptional academic performance and assist students in their initial year of education at the university.

UC Master's Scholarships: For high-achieving international students pursuing Master's degrees at UC. These scholarships provide financial support to assist students in their postgraduate studies and promote research excellence.

UC Doctoral Scholarships: Aimed at international students undertaking Ph.D. studies at UC. These scholarships offer financial assistance and opportunities for research excellence in various fields of study.

Specific Field Scholarships: Additionally, UC offers specialized scholarships catering to students entering specific fields or disciplines. These scholarships encourage innovation and excellence in targeted areas of study.

Graduates from the Master of Arts in Music program at the University of Canterbury possess a diverse skill set that opens doors to various career paths in the music industry and related fields. 

Musician/Performer: Graduates can pursue careers as professional musicians, performing solo, in ensembles, orchestras, bands, or as session musicians, showcasing their instrumental or vocal skills in concerts, events, or studio recordings.

Music Educator/Teacher: Graduates can become music educators, teaching in schools, universities, or private music institutions, imparting knowledge in music theory, history, performance, and composition.

Composer/Arranger: Graduates can work as composers or arrangers, creating original musical compositions, arrangements for various purposes such as films, commercials, video games, or musical productions.

Music Producer/Sound Engineer: Graduates can pursue roles as music producers or sound engineers, working in recording studios, managing recording sessions, mixing, and producing music for artists or media productions.

Music Therapist: Graduates can become music therapists, using music as a therapeutic tool to help individuals with disabilities, mental health issues, or special needs, improving their well-being through music interventions.

Arts Administrator/Manager: Graduates can work in arts administration or management roles in music organizations, concert halls, festivals, or cultural institutions, overseeing operations, marketing, and event management.

Music Journalist/Critic: Graduates can become music journalists or critics, writing about music, concerts, and albums for publications, websites, or media outlets, sharing insights and critiques about the music industry.

Arts Entrepreneur: Graduates can establish their music-related businesses, such as music schools, studios, production companies, or music-related startups, leveraging their expertise and creativity.