MA in Composition and Creative music practice, University of Limerick

12 Months

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About this course

The MA Composition and Creative Music Practice is a flexible postgraduate programme offered in both full-time and part-time formats. Over one year full-time or two years part-time, it aims to develop students' individual artistic practices by exploring cross-genre, cross-arts, and cross-cultural creativity. The course welcomes students from all musical backgrounds, whether traditional, folk, popular, world, classical, or sound art, with or without music notation. Its focus is on creating acoustic and/or electronic music through composition, improvisation, and performance practices. The programme encourages experimentation and collaboration, supporting diverse traditions and creative processes, from oral/aural to score-based approaches, toward producing innovative sound artworks and music.

Why this course is highly recommended

If you're a creative musician or artist eager to develop a distinctive artistic voice and collaborate across disciplines, this programme is ideal. It nurtures innovation by blending different musical and artistic traditions, encouraging exploration at the intersections of various music genres and cultural expressions. The course’s inclusive and interdisciplinary nature is perfect for those seeking to expand their creative practices within a supportive academic environment.

Specialisation

This course emphasizes interdisciplinary and progressive approaches to creative music. Students can engage with traditional, experimental, and global musical practices, working across genres and arts. The program supports the development of both acoustic and electro-acoustic music, sound art, and improvisation, fostering a unique blend of composition, performance, and sound exploration tailored to individual artistic interests.

Course fees

Application fees

16.85L

1st year tuition fees

16.85L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants need a primary degree in a suitable discipline with first or second class honours, or an equivalent qualification recognized by the National Qualifications Authority of Ireland (Level 8). Alternatively, professional experience demonstrating equivalent capability is acceptable. Additionally, applicants must submit relevant transcripts, certificates, a CV, a portfolio of work, and, if applicable, proof of English language proficiency.

English language test

IELTS

6.5

TOEFL

PTE

DUOLINGO

120

Want to learn more about the admission process, eligibility criteria, and acceptance rates for international students? Visit the University of Limerick admission page for complete details.

Career prospects

Graduates will be equipped to pursue careers as composers, sound artists, improvisers, performers, educators, or arts-practice scholars. The programme’s diverse training enables students to forge their own artistic paths and work within various sectors of the music and arts community.

FAQs

What are the language requirements for international students?

International students need to provide an English translation of their qualifications and a certificate of English language competency if their qualifications are not obtained in an English-speaking country.

Can I enroll in the part-time programme if I need a visa?

The two-year part-time version of the programme is only available to those eligible for visa-free study in Ireland due to visa requirements.