Music Technology

Comprising taught and research components, the programme is modular and structured over three semesters. The taught component of the programme (Semesters 1 and 2) consists of five mandatory modules in each semester.



Important features of the Masters programme are the balancing of theory and practice, and technological competence and musical creativity. At the core of the programme is hands-on training at computer music workstations where students are exposed to computer-based musical composition, sound synthesis and manipulation, programming and development, and music production.



The Department’s Music Technology Centre is a state-of-the-art teaching, learning and research environment dedicated to the musical applications of technology. It comprises fully-equipped and networked music labs, a recording studio, and a multichannel room.

Semester 1

Acoustics and Psychoacoustics

Sound Synthesis and Manipulation

Recording Techniques and Technologies

Electroacoustic Music 1

Computer Programming for Musicians



Semester 2

Sound Design for Interactive Applications

Multimedia Music Production

Electroacoustic Music 2

Computer Programming for Audio Applications

Research Practice and Work-placement



Semester 3

Following successful completion of the taught component, the student pursues a major research project, the Masters Project, under the supervision of one of the course tutors. The pathway chosen by the student will strongly influence the focus (Artistic or Scientific/Technological) of the research component, which in turn will determine the award title of Master of Arts in Music Technology, or Master of Science in Music Technology. Projects are normally in one of the following areas: music software development, composition portfolio, or dissertation.

This programme is designed for anyone who wishes to develop their research into Music Technology. Applicants should fulfil the standard Level 9 entry requirements for entry to a programme in DkIT. They should have a knowledge of the production of audio and a passion for music technology is also necessary, or hold a Level 7 or 8 qualification in the area. Applicants will be required to submit an approved portfolio of relevant digital audio/visual work. Graduates of other creative disciplines will be assessed for entry through the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) process on a case by case basis. Candidates will be interviewed where deemed appropriate.



Second class honours degree in Music/Multimedia or Computing/Engineering/Science (in certain circumstances - e.g. where technological and/or musical competencies are particularly strong - degrees in other disciplines may also be accepted).



For Mature applicants (over the age of 23 at the time of application) relevant industry or related experience may be accepted in lieu of degree. As part of the selection process, all shortlisted applicants will be required to attend a selection interview.



Acceptance for the programme is based on a combination of musical ability, technological capacity and academic record. These competencies are assessed from the completed application form (and accompanying portfolio of creative work if included) submitted by the applicant and from a subsequent interview. Shortlisting of applicants for interview, based on the submitted application form and portfolio, may take place.



Dundalk Institute of Technology recognises that knowledge, skills and competencies can be acquired from a range of learning experiences, including formal, non-formal and informal. Through the DkIT Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy., the Institute commits to giving value to all relevant learning, irrespective of mode or place of learning. Recognition of prior learning will provide opportunities for access, transfer and progression to education and training and for the achievement of an award. Processes and practices for the recognition of prior learning are detailed in the Institute's RPL Policy.

Apply directly to DkIT using our online applications system. Please remember to upload the required documentation (copies of your existing qualification(s), your CV, any other support documents etc) with your online application to expedite your application. To avoid disappointment early registration is recommended.

18 months full-time, on campus.

Graduates will have career opportunities in the digital media sector, the recording industry, multimedia development, internet/web music and audio, sound design, audio R&D, music education, radio and television, composition and arranging, music production, music software design, music therapy clinics and music instrument technology.



Students can also progress to further studies and undertake research postgraduate studies at PhD level.