MBA Masters of Business Administration
The MBA in Leadership at Bath Spa University is structured to provide a comprehensive u...
MA Commercial Music
Newton Park
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The MA Commercial Music program at Bath Spa University is typically a one-year full-time or two-year part-time course. It is designed to cater to individuals with diverse musical backgrounds and career aspirations within the commercial sector, including performance, production, songwriting, music business, and related fields. The program encourages students to develop their unique creative voice while gaining a deep understanding of the industry's structures, trends, and challenges. A significant component involves practical project work, collaborative opportunities, and the development of a professional portfolio. The culmination of the program often involves a major project that showcases the student's skills and creative vision, preparing them for their chosen career path.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the MA Commercial Music program is designed to be both rigorous and relevant to the demands of the modern music industry. Core modules typically delve into advanced music production techniques, songwriting and composition for commercial contexts, music business and marketing strategies, and the impact of digital technologies on music creation and consumption. Students often engage with topics such as intellectual property, music law, artist management, and the evolving landscape of music distribution and streaming. The program frequently incorporates workshops and masterclasses led by industry professionals, providing practical insights and networking opportunities. Students are encouraged to explore their own musical interests and develop specialized skills through elective modules or project-based learning. Collaboration is a key element, with opportunities to work with fellow students on recording projects, live performances, and entrepreneurial ventures. The curriculum aims to foster not only creative excellence but also business acumen and entrepreneurial thinking.
Research Focus: While the MA Commercial Music program is primarily vocational in its orientation, it is underpinned by a research-informed environment within Bath Spa University's School of Music and Performing Arts. The academic staff often includes active researchers and industry practitioners who bring their current knowledge and insights into their teaching. This ensures that students are exposed to the latest developments in music technology, industry trends, and academic discourse surrounding commercial music. Students are also encouraged to engage in critical inquiry and research through assignments and their final major project, developing their analytical and problem-solving skills within their chosen area of specialization. The university's broader research strengths in music, technology, and creative industries contribute to a stimulating intellectual context for the program.
Industry Engagement: A significant strength of the MA Commercial Music program at Bath Spa University is its strong and proactive engagement with the commercial music industry. The program fosters close links with recording studios, production companies, music publishers, live music venues, and other relevant organizations. Students often benefit from guest lectures, workshops, and masterclasses led by established artists, producers, managers, and industry executives. Opportunities for internships, work placements, and collaborative projects with industry partners may also be available, providing invaluable real-world experience and networking opportunities. The program's location within a vibrant creative region can also facilitate connections with the local music scene. This direct interaction with the industry ensures that the curriculum remains current and that graduates are well-prepared for the practical realities of working in commercial music.
Global Perspective: The MA Commercial Music program at Bath Spa University incorporates a global perspective by examining the international music market, exploring diverse musical traditions, and analyzing the global flows of music production and consumption. The curriculum may address issues such as the impact of globalization on music industries, the challenges and opportunities of reaching international audiences, and the role of digital platforms in connecting musicians and listeners worldwide. The university's diverse international student body also contributes to a global learning environment, fostering cross-cultural exchange and collaboration. Furthermore, the program may explore international copyright laws and the global music business landscape, preparing graduates to operate effectively in an increasingly interconnected global music industry.
Location
Newton Park
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 17835
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 65% or equivalent.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 or 7.0 with no individual component below 6.0.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 75.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 59.
- DET: A minimum overall score of 120.
- Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
Bath Spa University understands that financing higher education can be a challenge for international students, and to make studying in the UK more accessible, the university offers a range of scholarships. These scholarships are designed to support international students and recognize their academic achievements, helping to reduce the financial burden of tuition fees and living expenses.
International Scholarships: Bath Spa University offers a variety of international scholarships to help non-UK students cover part of their tuition fees. These scholarships are available for both undergraduate and postgraduate international students. The scholarships are typically awarded based on academic merit and the applicant’s potential to contribute to the university community.
Postgraduate Scholarships: International postgraduate students are also eligible for a range of scholarships, which may vary based on the course of study. These scholarships help to support students at the beginning of their master’s degree programs and can be highly competitive. Scholarships are awarded based on previous academic achievements, research proposals, and the applicant's personal statement.
Alumni Scholarships: Bath Spa University values its alumni community, and in recognition of this, it offers scholarships for international students who are former students of the university or have attended a Bath Spa University partner institution. The Alumni Scholarship is designed to reward those who have previously been part of the university and are returning to continue their studies.
Country-Specific Scholarships: Bath Spa University also provides country-specific scholarships for international students from particular regions. These scholarships are designed to encourage students from specific countries to study at Bath Spa University and contribute to the diverse international student community. Students from certain countries may be eligible for specific funding opportunities based on their nationality. The university’s website provides up-to-date information on country-specific scholarship availability.
Merit-Based Scholarships: Many of Bath Spa University's scholarships are merit-based, meaning they are awarded to students who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement or outstanding potential in their chosen field of study. Merit scholarships are typically awarded during the application process, and students do not need to apply separately for these awards.
External Scholarship Opportunities: In addition to the university’s internal scholarships, international students at Bath Spa University can also apply for external scholarships offered by government agencies, private organizations, or charitable foundations. Bath Spa University regularly updates a list of external scholarship opportunities that are available to international students. These scholarships may cover tuition fees, travel costs, and living expenses.
The MA Commercial Music program at Bath Spa University equips graduates with a versatile and highly relevant skillset, positioning them for a wide array of dynamic careers within the contemporary music industry. The program's comprehensive approach, blending creative development with business acumen and technological proficiency, ensures graduates are well-prepared for diverse professional paths.
Music Producer/Engineer: Working in recording studios or independently to oversee and execute the technical and creative aspects of music production, including recording, mixing, and mastering for various commercial genres.
Songwriter/Composer for Commercial Media: Creating original music for film, television, advertising, video games, and other commercial platforms, often working on a freelance basis or with production houses.
Artist Manager: Representing and guiding the careers of musicians, overseeing business aspects such as contracts, bookings, marketing, and overall career strategy.
Music Marketing Manager: Developing and implementing marketing campaigns for artists, labels, or music-related businesses, utilizing digital platforms, social media, and traditional marketing strategies to reach target audiences.
Music Business Entrepreneur: Launching and managing their own music-related ventures, such as independent record labels, publishing companies, music tech startups, or artist development agencies.
Live Sound Engineer: Working in live music venues or touring with artists to manage and optimize the sound quality for performances.
Music Editor for Film and TV: Selecting, synchronizing, and editing music for visual media, ensuring the soundtrack effectively enhances the storytelling.
Music Licensing Specialist: Working for music publishers or licensing agencies to negotiate and manage the use of music in various commercial contexts, such as film, TV, and advertising.
Music Journalist/Critic: Writing about music for online and print publications, offering critical analysis, conducting interviews, and covering industry news and trends.
Music Technology Specialist/Consultant: Working with music software, hardware, and digital platforms, providing technical support, training, or consulting services to musicians and music industry professionals.
