MA Music and Cultural History

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 1 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Next Intake TBA

Course Overview

The MA Music and Cultural History at University College Cork offers a progressive pathway for those seeking to explore the dynamic intersections of music, society, and culture beyond traditional musicology. This one-year postgraduate degree is ideal for students eager to combine established scholarly practices with contemporary approaches, drawing on the expertise of internationally recognised academics. You will delve into critical areas such as sound studies, music and popular culture, and the multidisciplinary debates within musicology and ethnomusicology, preparing you to engage with complex cultural phenomena.

This full-time, on-campus Masters programme is structured across two parts, beginning with 90 credits of taught modules including essential research skills and specialised topics. You will develop core musicological competencies, critically analyse musical texts, and engage with diverse research areas. The second part involves a substantial 30-credit Research Project in Music and Cultural History, allowing you to pursue an in-depth investigation tailored to your interests. Upon completion, you will graduate with advanced research capabilities, ready for doctoral studies or careers in cultural heritage, media, or the creative industries.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This MA program in Music and Cultural History offers a comprehensive exploration of music's role within broader cultural contexts. Students will develop essential research skills alongside in-depth study of performance, sound, and multidisciplinary debates in musicology and ethnomusicology. The curriculum delves into music's intersections with popular culture and cinema, examining historical trends and contemporary issues. The program culminates in a substantial research project, allowing students to pursue specialized interests within music and cultural history.

1 Part I

Research skills Compulsory
Performance studies Compulsory
Sound studies & musicology Compulsory
Multidisciplinary debates in musicology and ethnomusicology Compulsory
Music and popular culture Compulsory
Music and cinema Compulsory
Musicology: history and trends Compulsory
One further module in music or a related area as appropriate to the student's research specialization Compulsory

2 Part II

Research project in music and cultural history Compulsory

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 21,762.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 21,762.00

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

Agricultural Research & DevelopmentAgricultural Technology & Precision FarmingLive Events & ConcertsLivestock & Animal HusbandryMining Technology & InnovationMuseums & Cultural HeritageMusic & Performing ArtsSports & AthleticsStreaming & Digital ContentTheme Parks & Leisure

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Department of Education and Youth

IAC Archeology

Music Generation Ireland

National Parks and Wildlife Service

RTE

Rubicon Archaeology Group LTD

Virgin Media

Why Study MA Music and Cultural History 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 MA Music and Cultural History 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 in Ireland. No separate work permit is required, but students must be enrolled full-time in a program lasting at least one year.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet English language requirements, you can provide scores from tests like Duolingo (overall 120), TOEFL (overall 90), IELTS (overall 6.5), or PTE (overall 63). Ensure you check each test's specific score requirements for reading, writing, listening, and speaking.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Potential job titles include Musicologist, Cultural Historian, Archivist, Music Educator, and Research Analyst.

What will I actually study in this course?

This MA program offers a comprehensive study of musicology, focusing on critical skills such as research techniques and musical text analysis. It also explores contemporary issues like politics in music and the interaction of music with other media.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The MA Music and Cultural History program has an intake in September. Make sure to prepare your application ahead of this date to secure your spot.
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
 
Account
  • New student?

Search for universities & courses

ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️