Applied Psychology of Music MA

at University of Leeds

Core modules throughout the year will develop your knowledge of music psychology, as well as your understanding of research methods. You’ll focus on case studies in different areas of the subject, gaining a sense of the key issues, debates and theories. You’ll become confident in evaluating and using quantitative and qualitative techniques to collect data.
 

At the same time, you’ll select from optional modules that allow you to pursue your interests in different areas of music such as aesthetics, musicology, audience engagement, composition, performance, applied musicology, or electronic and computer music. For some of these modules, we may need to see evidence of your ability before you begin – see ‘How to apply’ for more information.
 

By the end of the course, you’ll be able to demonstrate the knowledge and skills you’ve gained when you submit your dissertation – an independent piece of research, with an empirical component, on a topic of your choice within music psychology.

Modules

Year 1

Compulsory modules

• Dissertation    
• Case Studies in the Applied Psychology of Music   
• Empirical Research Techniques    

A bachelor degree with a 2:1 (hons) in music, psychology or related discipline. We will consider other relevant experience if you can demonstrate a good level of musical understanding or practical experience when you apply.

English language requirements

IELTS 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in any component.
 

Documents and information you need

• Your degree certificate and transcript, or a partial transcript if you’re still studying. Please provide official translations if applicable.

• If English is not your first language, you’ll need to provide evidence of your English language qualification.

• A fully referenced essay or dissertation, in English, of a minimum of 2,000 words (preferably 4,000) on a music psychology topic. Applicants may be asked to provide a second example of their writing, to provide a fuller assessment of their potential.

• A personal statement in response to the questions asked in the supporting statement section of the application form.

• References may be requested.

• If you are an international applicant and have previously studied in the UK on a Student Visa, please provide a copy of your Visa (and Residence Permit if applicable) to cover all the dates of your time in the UK, a copy of your CAS summary, and a copy of your completion/award certificate if applicable.

• Please note that there are some optional modules available as part of our courses for which new students may be required to provide an example of their work, audition, or liaise with the relevant Module Leader first in order to assess suitability for entry on to the optional module. Assessment for optional modules with pre-requisites is not part of the admissions process. Offer holders are normally contacted by the School regarding optional modules in advance of their studies.

• Applicants are often invited for interview as part of the admissions process.

Fees

• UK: £9,750 (total)
• International: £22,250 (total)
   

This course will allow you to gain a range of transferable skills in research, analysis, interpretation and oral and written communication.
 

All of these can be applied in musical as well as non-musical contexts.
 

Recent graduates have gone on to launch careers within the fields of music education, music advertising, business development, marketing and administration, and artist management. Others have also continued with their research at PhD level.