Bachelor of Arts in World Music

The Bachelor of Arts in World Music at the University of Limerick provides students with a unique opportunity to explore the diverse and rich musical traditions from around the globe. This interdisciplinary program combines theoretical study with practical experience, offering students a comprehensive understanding of world music cultures, performance techniques, and scholarly approaches. Through a combination of coursework, ensemble participation, fieldwork, and performance opportunities, students develop the knowledge, skills, and cultural sensitivity necessary to engage with and contribute to the global music landscape.

Curriculum: The curriculum of the Bachelor of Arts in World Music program is designed to provide students with a broad foundation in ethnomusicology, music theory, musicology, performance practice, and cultural studies. Core modules cover topics such as the history of world music, musical analysis, fieldwork methods, improvisation, composition, and ensemble performance. Students have the flexibility to tailor their studies to their interests, with elective modules available in areas such as African music, Asian music, Latin American music, Celtic music, and global fusion.

Research Focus: The University of Limerick has a strong research focus in ethnomusicology and world music studies, with faculty members conducting cutting-edge research in areas such as musical globalization, cultural identity, music and migration, ritual and performance, and music technology in non-Western contexts. Students in the Bachelor of Arts in World Music program have the opportunity to engage with research projects, seminars, and conferences, exploring topics such as music and social change, musical transmission, diaspora communities, and intercultural collaboration.

Industry Engagement: The Bachelor of Arts in World Music program fosters strong connections with the music industry and cultural organizations, providing students with opportunities for performance, collaboration, and professional development. Students engage with local and international musicians, ensembles, festivals, and venues, participating in masterclasses, workshops, and residency programs. Industry partnerships and guest artist programs enhance students' understanding of career pathways and opportunities in the global music profession.

Global Perspective: The Bachelor of Arts in World Music program embraces a global perspective, recognizing the diversity and interconnectedness of musical cultures worldwide. Students explore a wide range of musical traditions, styles, and genres from different cultural contexts, learning to appreciate and critically engage with music as a universal human phenomenon. Through study abroad programs, exchange opportunities, and collaborations with international artists, students gain firsthand experience of music in its cultural and global dimensions.

Undergraduate Entry Requirements 

Application Fee: € 50

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 70% or above in their previous academic qualifications.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 or 6.5 with a minimum of 5.5 in each component.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 90 with a minimum of 21 in each section.
• PTE: Overall score of 61 with a minimum of 59 in each section.
• DET: Overall score of 120 with no section score below 110 is required.

Students must provide:

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

It's important to note that entry requirements can vary by program and may change over time. Additionally, some programs may have additional requirements, such as interviews, portfolios, or work experience.

The University of Limerick (UL) is supporting the academic aspirations of international students by offering various scholarship opportunities that recognize academic excellence, talent, and diverse backgrounds.

Merit-Based Scholarships: UL provides a range of merit-based scholarships for international students based on academic achievements, varying from undergraduate to postgraduate levels. These scholarships are awarded to high-achieving students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance.

Country-Specific Scholarships: The university also offers scholarships specifically tailored to students from certain countries or regions. These scholarships aim to encourage diversity and attract exceptional talent from different parts of the world, providing financial support to deserving candidates.

Sports Scholarships: UL values sporting achievements and offers scholarships to international students who excel in sports. These scholarships support athletes pursuing their academic goals while representing the university in various sporting events.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts in World Music program at the University of Limerick possess a unique blend of cultural understanding, musical proficiency, and academic knowledge, preparing them for diverse career opportunities in the global music industry and beyond. 

World Musician: Graduates can pursue careers as professional musicians specializing in world music genres, such as African drumming, Indian classical music, Brazilian samba, Celtic folk music, or Middle Eastern oud playing. They may perform solo, as part of an ensemble, or collaborate with musicians from different cultural backgrounds.

Ethnomusicologist: Graduates with a passion for research and scholarship can pursue careers as ethnomusicologists, studying the music of different cultures, communities, and regions. They may work in academia, museums, cultural institutions, or research organizations, conducting fieldwork, documenting musical traditions, and contributing to the understanding of global music cultures.

Music Educator: Graduates can pursue careers as music educators, teaching world music classes, workshops, or ensembles in schools, community centers, music academies, or cultural organizations. They may develop curriculum, lead rehearsals, organize performances, and foster cultural exchange through music education.

Cultural Ambassador: Graduates can work as cultural ambassadors, promoting intercultural understanding and dialogue through music. They may organize cultural events, festivals, or concerts, curate music programs, or facilitate cultural exchange programs between different communities, countries, or regions.

Music Producer or Composer: Graduates with technical skills and creativity can pursue careers as music producers or composers, creating original music that draws on world music influences. They may work in recording studios, film production companies, television networks, or advertising agencies, composing music for films, commercials, or multimedia projects.

Music Journalist or Critic: Graduates with strong writing and communication skills can work as music journalists, critics, or bloggers, covering world music performances, artists, albums, and trends for print publications, online platforms, or cultural websites. They may write reviews, interviews, features, or essays on global music topics.

Cultural Program Coordinator: Graduates can work as cultural program coordinators, planning and organizing music festivals, concert series, or cultural exchange programs that feature world music performances. They may liaise with artists, venues, sponsors, and community partners to curate diverse and engaging cultural events.

Arts Administrator: Graduates with organizational skills and leadership abilities can work in arts administration, managing world music organizations, festivals, or cultural centers. They may oversee programming, marketing, fundraising, or operations, contributing to the promotion and sustainability of global music initiatives.

Tour Manager or Booking Agent: Graduates with business acumen and industry knowledge can work as tour managers or booking agents, organizing tours and performances for world music artists. They may negotiate contracts, arrange travel logistics, and coordinate concert schedules for artists performing internationally.

Music Therapist: Graduates interested in the therapeutic applications of music can pursue careers as music therapists, using world music techniques and instruments to address physical, emotional, cognitive, or social needs in diverse populations. They may work in hospitals, clinics, schools, or community settings, facilitating music therapy sessions and promoting healing and well-being through music.