Leeds Beckett University United Kingdom

Popular Music and Culture MA

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 1 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The Popular Music and Culture MA at Leeds Beckett University offers you a vibrant space to explore the multifaceted world of contemporary music and its societal impact. This Master's degree is ideal if you are passionate about understanding the historical contexts, cultural significance, and industry dynamics of popular music, from local scenes to global trends. You will delve into critical analysis, examining how music is produced, consumed, and represented across various media. This programme equips you with advanced research skills to critically engage with music’s role in shaping and reflecting cultural identities worldwide.

This full-time, one-year MA is delivered on campus, immersing you in a rich academic environment. Your studies will encompass modules on popular music analysis, music industries in context and practice, and research methodologies, culminating in a substantial final individual project. You will engage with real-world music industry issues and develop your own negotiated skills, preparing you for diverse career paths. Graduates from Leeds Beckett University are well-prepared for roles in music journalism, curation, industry management, cultural heritage, and further academic research, armed with a deep understanding of popular music's cultural and economic significance.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Master's program offers a comprehensive exploration of popular music and its intricate relationship with culture. Students will engage with diverse theoretical frameworks and critical approaches to understand the production, consumption, and social impact of popular music across various historical periods and global contexts. The curriculum is designed to foster advanced analytical skills and a nuanced understanding of how music shapes and reflects societal values, identities, and power structures.

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

16% off
First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 20,912.00 USD 24,925.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 20,912.00 USD 24,925.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 462.00 - USD 3,620.00
Food & Groceries USD 2,417.00 - USD 4,833.00
Transport USD 806.00 - USD 1,611.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,128.00 - USD 2,095.00
Estimated Total USD 4,351.00 - USD 8,539.00

Living cost estimates are based on Leeds Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

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

Common Graduate Roles

Amusement & Recreation ServicesCorporate Training & DevelopmentEarly Childhood & Primary EducationEdTech & E-LearningMedia Production & EditingMedia Research & AnalyticsMusic & Performing ArtsPublic Broadcasting & DocumentarySpecial & Inclusive EducationVocational & Technical Training

Top Employers Hiring for this course

British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)

ITV

Leeds Beckett University

Stagecoach Performing Arts

The Music Consortium

Yorkshire Dance

Why Study Popular Music and Culture MA at Leeds Beckett University

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Moderate Application response time

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

Life at Leeds Beckett University 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 Popular Music and Culture MA at Leeds Beckett University

Can I work while studying?

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

What English language score do I need for this course?

For English proficiency, you can meet the requirements with scores such as a TOEFL overall score of 79 or an IELTS overall score of 6. Make sure your individual component scores also meet the specified thresholds.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Career opportunities include music journalist, cultural studies researcher, live music promoter, music producer, and ethnomusicologist.

What will I actually study in this course?

This course allows you to join a vibrant research community exploring the interconnectedness of popular music and cultures worldwide. You'll engage with modes of popular music and analyze its history and cultural significance.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The intake month for the Popular Music and Culture MA is September. Make sure to prepare your application materials in advance for a timely submission.
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