MA Music (Popular Music Research)

Postgraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Postgraduate applicants are expected to hold an undergraduate degree with a standard of at least 55%-60% in a relevant or related subject. This requirement ensures a solid academic foundation for advanced studies.

English Language Proficiency: 

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 or 7.0 with no individual component below 6.
• TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 100 on the TOEFL is accepted, with no sub-score in any section falling below 21.
• PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 69 with no individual score below 62.
• Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.

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.

Goldsmiths, University of London, is renowned for its vibrant academic community, creative atmosphere, and commitment to excellence in the arts, humanities, and social sciences. The university offers a range of scholarships for international students, providing financial support and opportunities for academic and personal development.  

Excellence Scholarships: Goldsmiths offers Excellence Scholarships to exceptional international students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievements. These merit-based scholarships provide partial tuition fee waivers and are available across various undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

Goldsmiths International Postgraduate Scholarship: This scholarship is specifically designed for international students pursuing postgraduate studies at Goldsmiths. It covers a portion of the tuition fees for the duration of the program. The selection criteria include academic excellence and the potential to contribute to the university's diverse and inclusive community.

Chevening Scholarships: Goldsmiths participates in the prestigious Chevening Scholarship program, which is funded by the UK government. Chevening Scholarships are awarded to outstanding individuals with leadership potential, enabling them to pursue a one-year master's degree at Goldsmiths. Recipients are selected based on their academic and professional achievements, as well as their commitment to making a positive impact in their home countries.

Commonwealth Shared Scholarships: Goldsmiths participates in the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship scheme, offering opportunities for students from eligible Commonwealth countries to pursue postgraduate studies in various fields. These scholarships cover tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs, promoting access to higher education for talented individuals from Commonwealth nations.

Santander Universities Scholarships: Goldsmiths has partnerships with Santander Universities, providing additional scholarship opportunities for international students. These scholarships support various academic pursuits, including research projects, study abroad experiences, and entrepreneurial initiatives.

Research and Departmental Scholarships: International students pursuing research degrees (MPhil/Ph.D.) may have access to research and departmental scholarships within specific academic departments. These scholarships often support research expenses, conference attendance, and other related costs.

Graduates of the MA Music (Popular Music Research) program at Goldsmiths University possess a unique blend of research skills, critical thinking, and a deep understanding of popular music's cultural impact. This combination opens doors to a variety of exciting and diverse career paths within the realm of popular music.

Music Researcher or Analyst: Many graduates naturally transition into roles as music researchers or analysts, contributing to the ongoing exploration of popular music trends, audience preferences, and cultural influences. They may work for research institutions, media companies, or music analytics firms.

Music Journalist or Critic: Graduates can pursue careers as music journalists or critics, sharing insights into the world of popular music through various media channels. They may write reviews, conduct interviews, and contribute to publications, websites, or blogs dedicated to popular music.

Music Industry Consultant: With a deep understanding of the popular music landscape, graduates may explore roles as consultants within the music industry. They can provide expertise on market trends, audience engagement strategies, and assist artists and labels in navigating the ever-changing dynamics of the music business.

Curator or Programmer for Music Events: Graduates may choose to work as curators or programmers for music events, festivals, or cultural institutions. They can shape the musical content of events, ensuring a diverse and engaging lineup that reflects the latest trends and cultural influences in popular music.

Digital Content Creator: For those interested in multimedia, graduates can explore careers as digital content creators. They may produce podcasts, video content, or social media campaigns that explore and celebrate various aspects of popular music, reaching a broad and diverse audience.

Music Educator with a Popular Music Focus: Graduates can enter the field of education, becoming music educators with a focus on popular music. They may teach at schools, colleges, or community programs, introducing students to the rich cultural and artistic dimensions of popular music.