BSc Acoustics and Music Technology
The University of Edinburgh, a prestigious institution in the United Kingdom, offers a ...
MMus Musicology
Central Campus
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The MMus Musicology program at the University of Edinburgh is an advanced postgraduate degree that combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills in music research. The program offers students a deep understanding of the diverse ways in which music has been composed, performed, and experienced throughout history. Students will engage with various methodologies, including music analysis, ethnomusicology, cultural studies, and music history. The curriculum provides opportunities to explore different musical traditions from Western classical music to contemporary genres and global music cultures. The program’s interdisciplinary approach allows students to broaden their perspective and develop a nuanced understanding of music's role in society, culture, and history.
Curriculum: The MMus Musicology curriculum is designed to provide a balanced combination of academic study, research skills development, and practical application. Core modules include "Musicological Research Methods," where students are introduced to the key methodologies and tools for conducting research in musicology, and "Music and Society," which examines the cultural contexts in which music is produced, consumed, and understood. Other modules allow students to explore topics such as "Music Analysis," "Ethnomusicology," "The History of Music," and "The Philosophy of Music." In addition, students are encouraged to specialize in areas of particular interest through elective modules or through their dissertation project, which allows them to undertake in-depth research in a specific area of musicology. The program culminates in the completion of a dissertation, allowing students to contribute original research to the field of musicology.
Research Focus: The University of Edinburgh has a long-standing reputation for excellence in musicological research, with faculty members who are experts in a range of disciplines, including music history, ethnomusicology, music theory, and contemporary music studies. The university’s Department of Music fosters a vibrant research community, and students benefit from exposure to a wide variety of ongoing research projects, both within the department and in collaboration with international institutions. The university is home to several research centers, including the Institute for Advanced Studies in the Humanities, which explores the relationship between music and other cultural and social phenomena. Students in the MMus Musicology program are encouraged to pursue their own research interests, supported by the expertise of the faculty and access to the university's extensive music collections, archives, and resources.
Industry Engagement: The MMus Musicology program at the University of Edinburgh offers extensive opportunities for industry engagement, helping students develop practical skills and build professional connections in the music world. The university’s Department of Music has strong links with local and international cultural organizations, music festivals, and academic institutions. Students may have the chance to participate in collaborations with music institutions, archival research, and music curation projects. Additionally, the program includes opportunities for students to engage with professional musicians, curators, and music critics through guest lectures, workshops, and seminars. These experiences provide students with valuable networking opportunities and help them gain insights into the practical aspects of working in the music industry, whether in research, criticism, curation, or education.
Global Perspective: The University of Edinburgh’s MMus Musicology program offers students a global perspective on music, with opportunities to study a wide variety of musical traditions from around the world. The program emphasizes the importance of understanding music within its cultural and historical context, encouraging students to engage with global music practices, from Western classical music to contemporary popular music and ethnomusicological traditions. The university’s diverse faculty and international research collaborations provide students with a broad, global understanding of music and its significance across cultures. Students are also encouraged to explore global perspectives in their dissertation research, with the potential to examine music from various cultural, historical, and social contexts.
Location
Central Campus
Score
IELTS: 7
Tuition Fee
£ 28800
Postgraduate entry requirements:
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Academic Qualifications: Prospective postgraduate applicants to the University of Edinburgh are typically required to have achieved a minimum academic qualification of approximately 60%, based on their previous academic achievements and qualifications.
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English Language Proficiency:
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IELTS (International English Language Testing System): Minimum overall score of 7.0, with at least 6.0 in each component (Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing).
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TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): Minimum score of 100 on the internet-based test (iBT), with at least 20 in each component (Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing).
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PTE (Pearson Test of English): Minimum overall score of 70, with at least 59 in each component (Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing).
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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 Edinburgh offers a range of scholarships and funding opportunities specifically designed to support international students pursuing undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs. These scholarships aim to promote diversity, academic excellence, and global engagement.
Global Scholarships: The University of Edinburgh offers Global Scholarships to outstanding international undergraduate students. These scholarships provide financial assistance towards tuition fees and living expenses, enabling talented students from around the world to access quality education at Edinburgh.
Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships: International postgraduate students pursuing research-based programs (Ph.D., MSc by Research) can apply for Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships. These scholarships provide full or partial funding for tuition fees and living expenses during the research program.
School-specific Scholarships: Some academic schools and departments within the university offer scholarships targeting international students in specific disciplines or programs. These scholarships may be merit-based or need-based and vary in terms of eligibility criteria and funding amounts.
Commonwealth Scholarships: The University of Edinburgh participates in various Commonwealth scholarship schemes, providing opportunities for students from Commonwealth countries to study in the UK. These scholarships are funded by the UK government and other organizations.
External Funding Sources: International students are encouraged to explore external funding sources, such as government scholarships, private organizations, and international foundations, to support their studies at the University of Edinburgh.
It is important to note that scholarship availability, criteria, and application deadlines may change from year to year.
Graduates of the MMus Musicology program at The University of Edinburgh are well-equipped to pursue diverse and rewarding careers in the field of musicology, as well as related areas within the broader cultural sector. With their advanced knowledge of music history, critical analysis skills, and research expertise, graduates are prepared for roles in academia, arts administration, cultural heritage, media, and more.
Academic Research and Teaching: Graduates may pursue careers in academia as researchers or lecturers at universities, colleges, or conservatories. They conduct original research, publish scholarly articles and books, and teach courses in music history, theory, analysis, or performance practice, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in the field of musicology.
Archivist or Librarian: Graduates can work as archivists or librarians in music libraries, archives, or cultural institutions, preserving and managing collections of musical scores, recordings, manuscripts, and other materials. They catalog, digitize, and provide access to resources, assisting scholars, performers, and the general public in their research and exploration of music history and culture.
Curator or Museum Professional: Graduates may work as curators or museum professionals in music museums, galleries, or cultural heritage organizations, curating exhibitions, organizing events, and managing collections of musical instruments, artifacts, and memorabilia. They develop exhibition concepts, interpretive materials, and educational programs, engaging with diverse audiences and promoting appreciation for music history and heritage.
Arts Administrator or Cultural Manager: Graduates can pursue careers as arts administrators or cultural managers in orchestras, opera companies, festivals, or arts organizations. They plan and coordinate concerts, events, and educational programs, manage budgets and resources, and liaise with artists, funders, and stakeholders, contributing to the vibrancy and sustainability of the cultural sector.
Music Journalist or Critic: Graduates with strong writing and communication skills may work as music journalists or critics for newspapers, magazines, websites, or radio stations. They write reviews, interviews, and feature articles about concerts, recordings, and trends in music, informing and engaging audiences with insightful commentary and analysis.
Music Editor or Publishing Professional: Graduates can work as music editors or publishing professionals for music publishers, record labels, or online platforms. They acquire, edit, and produce musical editions, scores, recordings, and multimedia content, collaborating with composers, performers, and producers to bring musical works to audiences worldwide.
Music Consultant or Advisor: Graduates may work as music consultants or advisors for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or private companies. They provide expertise on music policy, education, or outreach initiatives, develop cultural programs and funding schemes, and advocate for the value of music in society.
Freelance Scholar or Consultant: Graduates with entrepreneurial spirit may establish their own consulting firms or freelance practices, offering services such as research, writing, editing, or project management to clients in the music industry, academia, or cultural sector. They may also pursue grant funding, fellowships, or residencies to support their independent scholarly or artistic projects.
