Musicology

The programme is delivered by staff with strong international research reputations, active as scholars, performers, and composers. Their diverse expertise includes areas such as: music and film; opera studies; source studies; European art music in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries; music in Ireland; ethnomusicology; popular music; music, gender, and sexuality; analysis; and more. Beyond the modules, seminars, and showcase outlined in the Course Structure, MA in Musicology students may also attend conferences, concerts, and other events that Music Department staff regularly organise. Students also benefit from a first-rate library, access to the University's language courses, and close proximity to Dublin, enabling access to a further range of research libraries and archives.

The programme comprises seven modules in total: six group-seminar modules (three per semester) and a year-round thesis module for which students are allocated individual supervisors. You will encounter a rich spectrum of musicological topics, themes, and approaches in the programme, which reflects the variety of staff research interests. In addition, a year-round research seminar series provides an opportunity to hear guest lectures by visiting musicologists, composers, and performers. Students also present their work in progress during the Research Seminars and Colloquia.



You will take 90 credits in total: Thesis (30 credits, submitted at the end of August) and six 10-credit modules in Semesters 1 and 2: (1) Research Methods (including Work Placement in Sem. 2); (2) Individual Project; (3) Music in Ireland; (4) Music and Gender; (5) Music and Screen Media; and (6) Sound, Images, Spaces.

Normally a minimum II.1 honours degree in music is required. Applicants without this qualification will be requested to supply a short piece of sample writing on music and/or attend an interview.



International applicants must have a recognised primary degree which is considered equivalent to Irish university primary degree level.



International applicants whose first language is not English may be requested to submit samples of written material.



Applicants for whom English is not their first language are required to demonstrate their proficiency in English in order to benefit fully from their course of study. For information about English language tests accepted and required scores, please see here. The requirements specified are applicable for both EU and International applicants.



Maynooth University's TOEFL code is 8850

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, 2 years part-time

In general, there are two levels of fees payable. EU students from EU countries including Ireland pay a subsidised level of fees for both taught courses and research programmes. Tuition fees for students from outside the EU are not subsidised and are thus somewhat higher than for EU students.

Commences September

MA Musicology students develop a portfolio of critical, analytical, and communication skills, while the programme also trains students to work independently and manage their time effectively. These skills serve graduates well in a wide range of employment situations, including areas specific to music such as arts administration and events management. The MA in Musicology is also an excellent option for those considering further postgraduate study.