University of Aberdeen United Kingdom

History and Music, MA

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

Embark on the MA History and Music at the University of Aberdeen, a distinctive undergraduate degree designed for students passionate about understanding the human experience through both historical narratives and sonic expression. This programme delves into the critical analysis of past events and the evolution of musical forms, preparing you to engage with complex societal changes and cultural developments. You will explore diverse historical periods and geographical regions, alongside foundational music studies, equipping you with a unique interdisciplinary perspective essential for a wide range of academic and professional pursuits.

This full-time, four-year on-campus programme at the University of Aberdeen balances compulsory core courses with a wide array of optional modules, allowing you to tailor your studies in both history and music. You will develop essential research skills through modules like 'Making History' and 'Introduction to Music Studies', culminating in a significant independent dissertation in your final year, which can focus on either discipline. You will graduate with a robust analytical toolkit and a profound understanding of historical context and musical analysis, ready for careers in heritage, education, research, or the creative industries.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This MA program offers a comprehensive exploration of both history and music, spanning foundational academic skills and specialized subject matter. Students will engage with historical methodologies and musical analysis, delving into diverse areas such as ethnomusicology, global music history, and specific historical periods and conflicts. The curriculum culminates in advanced research through dissertations in either discipline or interdisciplinary projects like film and music studies.

1 YEAR 1

Academic writing for language & literature Compulsory
Getting started at the University of Aberdeen Compulsory
Making history Compulsory
Introduction to music studies Compulsory

2 YEAR 2

Introduction to ethnomusicology
Analysing music
Global music history
Scottish folklore and oral tradition
Analysing music
Introduction to ethnomusicology
Global music history

3 YEAR 3

Thinking history Compulsory

4 YEAR 4

Special Sub: Enlightenment compared: Ireland, Scotland, Central Europe
Special Subject: History of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict
Special Sub: The child as subject in the British world
Special Sub: Court society in late medieval Europe (C. 1300 – C. 1500)
Special Sub: European constitutional monarchies in the long 19th century
Special Sub: Britain and revolutionary Russia 1917-1924
Special Subject: Myths of the North
Dissertation in history
Dissertation in music
History in practice II
Film and music
Literature and music

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 28,115.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 28,115.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 28,115.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 28,115.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 112,461.00

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

Living Costs

Food & Groceries USD 2,256.00 - USD 3,867.00
Transport USD 725.00 - USD 1,009.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,386.00 - USD 1,732.00
Estimated Total USD 4,367.00 - USD 6,262.00

Living cost estimates are based on Old Aberdeen campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

97%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Amusement & Recreation ServicesCurriculum & Instructional DesignEarly Childhood & Primary EducationEducation Policy & AdministrationEducational Support ServicesEvent Promotion & ManagementMusic & Performing ArtsSports & AthleticsTheme Parks & LeisureVocational & Technical Training

Top Employers Hiring for this course

National History Museum

National Trust

University of Aberdeen

University of Edinburgh

Why Study History and Music, MA at University of Aberdeen

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Aberdeen in United Kingdom

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 History and Music, MA at University of Aberdeen

Can I work while studying?

International students in degree programs can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is needed.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To apply, English proficiency is required with minimum scores: Duolingo overall 105, TOEFL overall 78, IELTS overall 6.0, or PTE overall 59. Ensure you meet these standards before submission.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates may pursue careers as music historians, cultural researchers, archivists, educators, or community arts coordinators.

What will I actually study in this course?

History at Aberdeen offers the opportunity to immerse yourself in rich study of all aspects of human adventure in the past, exploring the medieval, early modern and modern periods in Scotland, Europe, America, Asia and Africa. You will study at a university steeped in 500 years of history. You can study this course with Music to give you a unique range of learning and opportunities and careers.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The History and Music MA program has an intake in September. Make sure to apply before the deadline to secure your spot.
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