MA CONTEMPORARY MUSIC PRACTICES

Grounded in cutting-edge academic and creative research, our innovative MA in Contemporary Music Practices positions students at the forefront of scholarly exploration and artistry. Collaborating with esteemed international scholars in the Department's key disciplines of composition, performance, and music technology, students explore a core curriculum that focuses on honing practical, creative and research skills in these areas.

This is complemented by a diverse range of electives that cater to individual specialisation in composition, performance, or music technology, or equally allow students to maintain a more diverse programme of study as relevant to reflect their practice.

This comprehensive degree equips students with fundamental intellectual and practical tools required to pursue practice-based research, to foster specialisation and to nurture independent scholarship. Immersed in a vibrant and collaborative research culture, students regularly interact with visiting seminar speakers, performers, and composers, enriching their academic experience. A distinctive feature of our programme is the inclusion of an elective placement component, providing students with practical experiences that enhance their academic and professional growth.

Click here for brochure MA in Contemporary Music Practices

Honours degree with a minimum of Grade 2.2. Applicants may be required to attend for audition and interview.

Experienced music professionals who do not hold a primary or higher degree are also eligible to apply via the University's Recognition of Prior Experiential Learning Initiative. Evidence of creative activity and/or graduate-level writing ability may be requested as part of the application process for such applicants.

Minimum English language requirements:
Applicants for whom English is not their first language are required to demonstrate their proficiency in English in order to benefit fully from their course of study. For information about English language tests accepted and required scores, please see here. The requirements specified are applicable for both EU and International applicants.

Maynooth University's TOEFL code is 8850

IELTS : 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in each band

Duolingo English Test (DET) : The minimum requirement will be a DET score of 120 - with at least 110 in each individual subscore. 

Pearson Test of English : 63 with no less than 59 for each item in the Communicative Skills section

TOEFL internet-based test  : iBT: 90 with no less than 21 in writing and at least 19 in every other section

The course leads to a wide variety of career paths in music industry, music journalism, composition, broadcasting, administrative and teaching positions within a broad range of music institutions and organisations in Ireland and internationally.