MBA Master of Business Administration
The MBA program at the University of Sheffield offers a comprehensive curriculum design...
MA Composition
Western Bank
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The MA Composition program at the University of Sheffield provides students with a comprehensive platform to develop their compositional skills through practical experience, theoretical study, and critical engagement with contemporary music. The program is designed to nurture students' creativity and expand their compositional capabilities, offering opportunities for collaborations with performers and access to state-of-the-art recording and studio facilities. Students also benefit from expert guidance from faculty members who are active composers, musicians, and researchers in the field of contemporary music. The program allows students to specialize in a variety of compositional approaches, from orchestral and chamber music to electroacoustic and multimedia compositions.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the MA Composition program combines intensive composition practice with theoretical and analytical study. Core modules include Composition Techniques, Music Technology, and Advanced Orchestration, providing students with the skills necessary to compose in a variety of styles and for different ensembles. Additionally, students engage in critical discussions about contemporary music, musical aesthetics, and compositional trends through modules such as Contemporary Music Analysis and Research Methods in Music. A key aspect of the program is the individual composition project, where students create original works that are performed and recorded, often in collaboration with musicians and other composers. Students also have the option to explore music technology and production techniques, making them versatile composers capable of working in multiple contexts.
Research Focus: The research focus of the MA Composition program at the University of Sheffield is on pushing the boundaries of contemporary composition and exploring new approaches to music creation. The program emphasizes innovation and experimentation, encouraging students to engage with a wide range of musical styles, from traditional to cutting-edge technologies in music composition. The university’s Department of Music is renowned for its research in contemporary composition, offering students access to ongoing projects, masterclasses, and lectures by prominent composers and musicians. Students are encouraged to engage with research topics that align with their compositional interests, exploring areas such as experimental music, sound art, and the integration of technology in music.
Industry Engagement: The University of Sheffield’s MA Composition program has strong links with the music industry, providing students with opportunities for real-world experience and professional development. Students benefit from collaborations with performance ensembles, orchestras, and music festivals, allowing them to have their works performed and recorded. The program also offers networking opportunities with industry professionals, including composers, performers, and music producers, through workshops, seminars, and performance events. These industry connections help students build relationships within the music industry and enhance their career prospects upon graduation. The university’s state-of-the-art music production facilities and the opportunity to work with musicians and ensembles ensure that students are well-prepared for a career as professional composers.
Global Perspective: The MA Composition program at the University of Sheffield integrates a global perspective on contemporary music composition. The university’s international collaborations and partnerships with music institutions, festivals, and composers around the world give students access to a wide range of musical influences and opportunities. Students are encouraged to engage with global trends in composition, including exploring music from different cultural and artistic traditions. The program also fosters international connections, offering students the chance to attend and perform at international music festivals, collaborate with composers worldwide, and present their works to global audiences. This international outlook ensures that graduates are equipped to work in a diverse and interconnected global music industry.
Location
Western Bank
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 24400
Postgraduate Entry Requirements:
- Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 60%-70% or equivalent.
- English language proficiency is required, and applicants must provide evidence of their English language skills through an approved language test.
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 with no individual component below 6.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 88, with at least 19 in Listening, 20 in Reading, 22 in Speaking, and 19 in Writing.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 61 with no individual score below 56.
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.
Postgraduate students may be eligible for the following scholarships:
Postgraduate Taught Merit Scholarship: This scholarship is available to UK, EU, and international students who have a conditional or unconditional offer to study a full-time or part-time postgraduate taught course at the University of Sheffield. The scholarship is worth 50% of the tuition fee for each year of study.
International Merit Postgraduate Taught Scholarship: This scholarship is available to international students who have a conditional or unconditional offer to study a full-time postgraduate taught course at the University of Sheffield. The scholarship is worth 50% of the tuition fee for each year of study.
Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scheme: This scholarship is available to students from eligible developing Commonwealth countries who have a conditional or unconditional offer to study a full-time postgraduate taught course at the University of Sheffield. The scholarship covers the full tuition fee, airfare to and from the UK, and a monthly stipend.
Graduates of the MA Composition program find themselves well-prepared for diverse and rewarding careers in music composition, performance, teaching, and arts administration.
Composer: Graduates can work as composers, creating original music for various settings, such as concerts, film, television, and multimedia projects.
Music Arranger: With expertise in composition, graduates may pursue careers as music arrangers, adapting existing music for different instruments or ensembles.
Music Educator: Graduates can explore careers in music education, teaching composition, and music theory at schools, colleges, or private studios.
Performer: Some graduates choose to be performers, showcasing their own compositions or collaborating with other musicians.
Arts Administration: Graduates may work in arts administration, organizing concerts, festivals, or cultural events.
