Irish Traditional Music

The MA is anchored by a final capstone project (choosing from options in performance, recording, and thesis) and provides specialist training in the areas of student choice.



One year full-time (90 credits in total), with and for part-time study to be option examined.



Three main strands of study (performance, portfolio (recording), thesis) allowing the student to explore practice, creativity and research according to their own specialisms.



60 credits for taught modules drawn from extant taught PG programmes in the Department with the option of electives drawn from other programmes more widely in the Faculty.



30 credits for a Capstone Project.



There will be the possibility for a 60-credit taught PG Dip exit route that negates the requirement of the 30-credit capstone project or admits the inclusion of a smaller project within the taught offering.)



Students will be mentored by the programme director(s), who will help in the module choice, and coordinate the supervision of the MA Capstone Project.



By the end of the programme, students should be able to:



- Engage actively in the performance, composition and or/recording of Irish traditional music;



- Demonstrate a range of standard and specialised research tools or their equivalent;



- Discuss a range of cultural topics related to Irish traditional music in national and international contexts;



- Produce original work in the form of high-quality written texts, artistic performances, or artistic works;



- Assess the impact of academic and/or artistic works in a given area of specialisation

Undergraduate degree in traditional music; undergraduate degree in music and prior experience and expertise in Irish traditional music (or other related traditional and folk musics); undergraduate degree in a related subject (e.g. Irish, History) and significant experience in traditional music in an area such as performance, research, education, broadcasting, production, or administration; or professional involvement in some area of traditional music.

Applications are open for the 2025/6 academic year. Visit our online application portal to start your application.

We are here to support you throughout the admissions process.



For queries on your postgraduate course options please contact pgstudies@mu.ie

For queries or support on your application process please contact pgadmissions@mu.ie



If you are an international (Non-EU) applicant please contact internationaladmissions@mu.ie

1 year full-time or 2 years part-time

Commences in September

The MA in Irish Traditional Music helps students develop critical, analytical, and communication skills, and also trains students to work independently and manage their time effectively. These skills are beneficial to graduates in a wide range of employment situations, including areas specific to music such as performance and recording work, arts administration and events management. It is also an excellent option for those considering further postgraduate study.