BMus (Hons) Music

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Next Intake TBA

Course Overview

The BMus (Hons) Music at University College Cork offers you a comprehensive exploration of music's theory and practice, equipping you to understand its societal role and to actively create music. This undergraduate degree is ideal if you wish to combine your passion for music with another Arts subject, providing a unique blend of academic rigour and creative expression. You will delve into areas such as Western music, Irish traditional music, world music, composition, and performance, developing a nuanced appreciation for diverse musical landscapes. This programme fosters the creative edge essential for standing out in the arts and cultural sectors.

You will study this degree full-time on campus over four years, engaging with core modules in music theory, culture, and society, alongside a wide array of elective options. Throughout your studies, you will have opportunities for solo and ensemble performances, composition, and potentially advanced music technology, culminating in a major study or research project in your final year. By completing the BMus (Hons) Music at University College Cork, you will graduate with a versatile skill set, prepared for diverse career paths in performance, education, musicology, composition, and the broader cultural industries.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Bachelor of Music (Honours) program offers a comprehensive exploration of music across various cultures and historical periods. Students will engage with Western music traditions, Irish traditional music, world music, and contemporary genres like popular music and hip hop. The curriculum includes theoretical studies, performance practice, composition, music technology, and ethnomusicology, culminating in a major research project or recital.

1 Year 1

Western Music, Culture and Media
Irish Traditional Music Studies and Introduction to World Music
Gamelan and Ensemble
Solo Performance and Ensemble Studies
Composition
Music Theory and Aural Skills

2 Year 2

Music Theory 2
Music in Culture and Society (must take)
Exploring Early 18th-century Music
Applied Ethnomusicology
Popular Music in East Asia
Uillean Pipes in Irish Traditional Music
The Canon(s) of Irish Traditional Music
The Harmonic Language of Irish Traditional Music
Let the Music Play
Music Education
Music in Community
Planet Rap: Global Hip Hop and Postcolonial Perspectives
Punk: Histories and Subcultures
Music Perception and Cognition
Sounds Like Listening
Song-Writing 2
Improvisation: Concept, Culture and Practice
Loop: Repetition and Variation in Music
Organising Musical Materials
Applied Musicianship at the Keyboard I
Harmony and Counterpoint
The Language of Jazz
Choral Studies 2
Keyboard Musicianship II
Foundations of Music Technology
Studio Production Techniques 1
Chamber Music Ensemble Studies 2
Early Music Ensemble Studies 2
Renaissance Vocal Ensemble Studies 2

3 Year 3

Exploring Early 18th-century Music
Gender and Sexuality in Music
Applied Ethnomusicology
Popular Music in East Asia
Uillean Pipes in Irish Traditional Music
The Canon(s) of Irish Traditional Music
The Harmonic Language of Irish Traditional Music
Revival to Riverdance
Navigating the Irish Music Industry
Let the Music Play
Music Education
Music in Community
Music Perception and Cognition
Planet Rap: Global Hip Hop and Postcolonial Perspectives
Punk: Histories and Subcultures
A Cultural History of Love Songs
Major Study
Recital
Sounds Like Listening
Song-Writing 2
Improvisation: Concept, Culture and Practice
Loop: Repetition and Variation in Music
Organising Musical Materials
Music Theory 2
Applied Musicianship at the Keyboard I
Harmony and Counterpoint
The Language of Jazz
Choral Studies 2
Keyboard Musicianship II
Foundations of Music Technology
Studio Production Techniques
Chamber Music Ensemble Studies 2
Irish Traditional Music Ensemble Studies

4 Year 4

Senior Research Forum (must take)
Major Study
Exploring Early 18th-century Music
Gender and Sexuality in Music
Applied Ethnomusicology
Popular Music in East Asia
Uillean Pipes in Irish Traditional Music
The Canon(s) of Irish Traditional Music
The Harmonic Language of Irish Traditional Music
Revival to Riverdance
Navigating the Irish Music Industry
Let the Music Play
Music Education
Music in Community
Music Perception and Cognition
Planet Rap: Global Hip Hop and Postcolonial Perspectives
Punk: Histories and Subcultures
A Cultural History of Love Songs
Recital
Sounds Like Listening
Song-Writing 2
Improvisation: Concept, Culture and Practice
Loop: Repetition and Variation in Music
Organising Musical Materials
Music Theory 2
Applied Musicianship at the Keyboard I
Harmony and Counterpoint
The Language of Jazz
Choral Studies 2
Keyboard Musicianship II
Foundations of Music Technology
Studio Production Techniques
Chamber Music Ensemble Studies 2
Irish Traditional Music Ensemble Studies

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

11% off
First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 19,413.00 USD 21,762.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 21,762.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 21,762.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 21,762.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 84,701.00 USD 87,051.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 777.00 - USD 1,595.00
Food & Groceries USD 2,807.00 - USD 4,491.00
Transport USD 702.00 - USD 1,684.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,404.00 - USD 2,105.00
Estimated Total USD 4,913.00 - USD 8,280.00

Living cost estimates are based on Cork Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

93%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Accreditation & Assessment ServicesAdvertising & Media SalesBroadcasting & TelevisionCurriculum & Instructional DesignEarly Childhood & Primary EducationEdTech & E-LearningEducation Policy & AdministrationFilm & Television ProductionPublic Broadcasting & DocumentarySports & Athletics

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Department of Education and Youth

Music Generation Ireland

RTE

Virgin Media

Why Study BMus (Hons) Music at University College Cork

What makes this program stand out

Moderate Application response time

University College Cork typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 weeks, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at University College Cork in Ireland

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about BMus (Hons) Music at University College Cork

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and 40 hours during breaks. No separate work permit is required.

What English language score do I need for this course?

Applicants must meet specific English test requirements: Duolingo scores of 110 in comprehension, conversation, and production, and an overall score of 120; TOEFL scores must include a minimum of 19 in listening, reading, and speaking, with an overall score of 90. IELTS requires an overall score of 6.5 with no individual score lower than 6.0.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as Music Educators, Sound Engineers, Music Therapists, or Performers.

What will I actually study in this course?

The BMus (Hons) Music degree allows for the study of Music alongside an Arts subject, enriching your academic experience. Students will engage in both the theory and practice of music, including performance opportunities in solo and ensemble settings.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The next intake for the BMus (Hons) Music program is in September. Ensure you apply in advance to secure your spot.
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