MA Psychology of Music

Program Overview

The MA Psychology of Music at the University of Sheffield provides an in-depth exploration of the psychological processes involved in music perception, production, and engagement. This program is offered by the Department of Music, renowned for its interdisciplinary approach and expertise in both musicology and psychology. It combines theoretical learning with practical research, preparing students to engage with a wide range of topics, from the cognitive mechanisms underlying music perception to the use of music in therapeutic settings. The program is designed for those interested in pursuing careers that merge the fields of psychology, music, and health, offering the opportunity to develop critical skills in both psychological theory and musical application. Students will have the opportunity to conduct original research and engage with leading experts in the field, benefiting from the university's strong research focus and collaborations with professionals in music therapy and cognitive neuroscience.

Curriculum: The MA Psychology of Music program at the University of Sheffield offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers the foundational theories and research methods in both psychology and music. Core modules include Music Perception and Cognition, Music Therapy and Psychology, and Research Methods in Music Psychology. Students will explore how humans perceive music, how music impacts emotion, and how music can be used to address psychological issues in therapeutic contexts. The curriculum also includes a research project or dissertation, where students can pursue an area of interest within the field of music psychology, applying their theoretical knowledge to real-world problems. Elective modules may cover topics such as Psychology of Musical Development, Music and Emotion, and Neuroscience of Music, allowing students to tailor their studies to their specific interests and career goals. The program emphasizes hands-on learning and research skills, preparing students for careers in both academic and applied psychology, as well as the music industry.

Research Focus: The MA Psychology of Music program at the University of Sheffield is deeply rooted in research, with a strong emphasis on understanding the psychological processes involved in music. The university is home to internationally recognized researchers in the field of music psychology, and students are encouraged to engage with ongoing research projects. Key research areas include music perception, music cognition, the therapeutic use of music, music and emotion, and the role of music in education and development. Students will have the opportunity to conduct original research in these areas, applying psychological theories and methods to better understand how music affects human behavior and mental processes. The program's research focus is aligned with the university's commitment to advancing knowledge in the intersection of psychology and music, providing students with the tools they need to contribute to the field's development.

Industry Engagement: The MA Psychology of Music program at the University of Sheffield offers strong industry engagement opportunities, giving students practical experience in both the music and psychology sectors. The university has close links with music therapy organizations, healthcare providers, and the wider music industry, allowing students to gain insights into how music psychology is applied in real-world settings. Students may have the opportunity to work on projects in collaboration with professionals in music therapy, education, or the music industry, gaining valuable experience and networking opportunities. Additionally, the program’s research component allows students to collaborate with leading researchers and professionals in the field of music psychology, further enhancing their industry knowledge and career prospects.

Global Perspective: The MA Psychology of Music program at the University of Sheffield has a global perspective, reflecting the international nature of the field. Music psychology is a discipline that is studied and applied worldwide, and the program integrates global trends and research findings into its curriculum. The university attracts students from around the world, offering a diverse and multicultural learning environment where students can engage with different cultural perspectives on music and psychology. The global scope of the program ensures that graduates are well-prepared to work in international settings, whether in academic research, music therapy, or applied music psychology roles. With the growing recognition of the importance of music in mental health and development, graduates of the MA Psychology of Music program are equipped to contribute to global advancements in the field.