The MPhil in Music is a nine-month freestanding programme offering advanced training in key areas of musical studies, while at the same time providing preparation for doctoral research. Its main aims are to equip students with research skills and experience beyond the first-degree level:
critical awareness of issues and trends, informed by current research, across a broad spectrum of music studies;
the opportunity to acquire or develop research skills and expertise relevant to a specified area of musical scholarship;
experience in carrying out focused research under close supervision; and
the opportunity for composers to acquire or develop the technical skills required to bridge the gap between undergraduate work and composition at a professional level.
Teaching consists of seminars and individual supervisions, self-directed study and (where relevant) practical instrumental or vocal tuition and composition workshops. Students are also expected to participate in the research culture of the Faculty, in particular by attending its programme of research colloquia, and skills training sessions.
All students electing the dissertation option give a short (approximately 20 minutes) presentation on the topic of their dissertation in the Easter term.
Written feedback is provided for all assessed work. Oral feedback is provided for seminar and class presentations. Students can expect to receive an online feedback report each term as a way to monitor progress.
Music Studies: students either submit a 12,500-15,000 word dissertation or a 50-60 minute recital with an accompanying 7,500 word essay.
Composition: students on this pathway do not submit a dissertation but submit a portfolio of four compositions totalling either 25-30 minutes (Standard Project) or 35-45 minutes (Extended Project) in length.
At the discretion of the Examiners, an oral examination of the dissertation or equivalent and the general field of knowledge in which it falls may be required.
All students must submit a proposal on the dissertation, recital, or composition portfolio of not more than 1,500 words and give a presentation on the dissertation.
Music Studies: students submit a portfolio of abstracts (not more than 1,500 words) and three essays of not more than 3,500 words each.
Applicants for this course should have achieved a First class Honours Degree .
If your degree is not from the UK, please check International Qualifications to find the equivalent in your country.
University Minimum Academic Requirements
Score : Grade A & B (overall score of 193, with no element lower than 185 plus a Language Centre assessment)
Score : Grade A, B, or C (with at least 200 with no element lower than 185).