Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Popular Music -Electric Guitar, Munster Technological University

Cork, Ulster

48 Months

Check Eligibility

About this course

If you're passionate about playing the electric guitar and want to explore popular music genres like rock, pop, blues, and more, this programme could be just right for you. Offered at MTU Cork School of Music, it immerses students in performance, music technology, and various aspects of popular music culture. The course emphasizes practical performance through small ensemble groups, supported by lectures, classes, and labs that develop skills in areas like musicianship, harmony, music technology, songwriting, and musical arrangement. Students will learn to perform across diverse styles like hip hop, jazz, reggae, and electronic music, and are encouraged to develop their own live and recorded projects. The programme also touches on community music and music therapy, along with modules on arts marketing and professional promotion for holistic artist development.

Why this course is highly recommended

If you're drawn to the electric guitar and want a dedicated programme that combines performance with technical skills, this course offers a comprehensive learning experience. Its vibrant ensemble environment and access to music technology and songwriting modules make it ideal for aspiring musicians wanting real-world exposure and practical skills. The course supports broader career prospects beyond performance, such as composition, multimedia music, and arts promotion, making it suitable for students with diverse musical interests and ambitions.

Specialisation

This programme focuses specifically on Electric Guitar within the context of popular music, offering a specialized stream for guitar players. Students will engage deeply with performance, ensemble work, music technology, and songwriting, tailored around the electric guitar's role in various genres. The course also provides the opportunity to develop skills in musical arrangement, directing, and personal music projects, all centered on this instrument.

Course fees

Application fees

1st year tuition fees

12.19L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants need to meet the minimum CAO points of 446 for 2024 (round 1) and satisfy the minimum entry requirements, including six subjects in the Leaving Certificate with specific grades. Additionally, all applicants must sit the CSM’s entrance test, and there is a vetting process through An Garda Síochána which is mandatory for participation.

English language test

IELTS

TOEFL

PTE

DUOLINGO

110

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme have opportunities in various musical fields such as performing, songwriting, composing for multimedia, and recording. They can also pursue careers in theatrical or TV productions, music therapy, arts promotion, festival organization, and industry management. The skills gained also make graduates attractive to employers outside of traditional music roles, thanks to their digital proficiency, musical IQ, and interpersonal skills.

FAQs

What are the entry requirements?

You need to score 446 CAO points in 2024 (round 1), meet the minimum subject requirements, and successfully pass the entrance test held by the school.

Is there a specific audition process?

Yes, all applicants must sit the CSM's entrance test, with sample papers available online to prepare.