The University of Sheffield
Prospective Postgraduates

World Music Studies - MA

Department of Music, Faculty of Arts and Humanities

Choose from all aspects of the study of music, including composition, performance, history, ethnomusicology, education and psychology.

About the course

2 years part time distance learning

Explore research in world music and ethnomusicology in this unique programme that combines practical, applied and theoretical perspectives. It's relevant whether you're a musician, an educator or you work in the music media and industry.

Entry requirements

For this course you'll need at least a 2:1 or equivalent in music, or a combined degree with a substantial music component.

Other qualifications may be acceptable depending on your background, for instance a degree in anthropology, drama, education, psychology or another subject, equivalent life experience, or a performance diploma from a conservatoire or academy.

English language requirements for overseas students

IELTS, minimum score 6.5 overall with 6 in each component (or equivalent).

Entry requirements for international students 

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Course content

  • Research Skills
  • Music of the World
  • Approaches to Fieldwork
  • Case Studies in Ethnomusicology
  • Special Topic in World Music
  • 15,000-word dissertation

Teaching

  • Lectures
  • Seminars
  • World music performance workshops
  • Email tutorials with supporting course texts and guidance notes

Assessment

  • Coursework
  • Dissertation
  • Sample radio programme
  • Folio of fieldwork materials

Fees and funding

University and Faculty funding is available each year. The closing date for applications is mid-January. The department has a small number of tuition studentships available. The closing date for these is the end of April. Contact us for further details.

Financial information for postgraduate taught courses

Any questions?

If you'd like to know more about any aspect of our courses, contact us:

E: j.m.burrows@sheffield.ac.uk
T: +44 (0)114 222 0470

Caroline Bruce, MA Psychology of Music

Why your masters matters

We offer a variety of specialist courses, taught by expert staff. We are among the UK’s top five music departments, and our teaching and research have both been rated as excellent.

We're influential in music psychology and education, Messiaen studies, acoustic and electronic composition, performance studies and the ethnomusicology of East Asia. Our Centre for Applied and Interdisciplinary Research in Music (CAIRM) supports research collaborations.

Performance is an important part of our work and you’ll have the chance to participate in orchestras, music theatre, contemporary music, folk and world traditions. We have strong links with our community, giving you the chance to make music outside the University.

Distance learning courses

Most of the teaching in these unique degrees is delivered by post, telephone, email or online. You'll need to attend the University in person for either one or two residentials per year.

Apply now

You can apply for postgraduate study using our Postgraduate Online Application Form. It is a quick and easy process.

Postgraduate Online Application Form