Triangle

Research overview

The department offers exceptional research-led teaching, with inspiring facilities for performance, composition, music technology, and musicology. The department benefits currently from a partnership with the BBC Concert Orchestra, through which world-class performance, composition, and production experiences are offered. The Music Department enjoys a close relationship with Lakeside Arts, the University of Nottingham’s public arts programme.

The MRes offers four distinct specialisms, each supported by world-leading experts:

  • Musicology
  • Composition (acoustic or digital)
  • Performance
  • Music technology

The Department of Music has world-leading expertise (64% outputs rated 4*, REF 2021) and research synergies across the following areas:

  • Popular music, film music, electronic music, traditions of music and dance, musical theatre, opera, jazz, sacred music, 19th-c. orchestral music, early and medieval music, twentieth-century music
  • Performance studies, performance practice, improvisation, embodiment
  • Computer music, mixed reality, AI, coding, audio engineering, sound art, music technologies
  • Acoustic, acousmatic, electroacoustic, electronic, and digital composition
  • Practice-based, archival, digital, material, analytical methodologies
  • Geographies of Western Europe (esp. Britain, Germany, Italy), North America, Asia
  • Politics, identity, environment, ethnicity, mobility and exchange
  • Transnational, colonial, postcolonial perspectives
  • Social justice
  • Community music
  • Social practice
  • Participatory arts

Your department

  • Department of Music website
  • The department was ranked 7th among the Russell Group universities for research outputs in the Research Excellence Framework 2021. 

"The thing I've enjoyed the most is the community that the music department has. When you’re able to make friends with your lecturers I think that’s a really important thing and it’s something that’s quite unique to music, as we’re a small department. It’s really lovely."

Amber Frost, MRes Music

Course content

Students will normally specialise in one of the following areas:

  • Musicology
  • Composition (acoustic or digital)
  • Performance
  • Music Technology

Depending on your specialism, you will then choose an appropriate assessment option in the modules 'Specialised Studies 1 (autumn)' and 'Specialised Studies 2 (spring)', and be working on your Special Project throughout the year.

You will select one pathway at the beginning of the year and follow it through to the end of the course.

Musicology

Create an extended piece of original research, usually relating to other coursework and supported by experts from the department. The final outcome will be a dissertation, editorial or analytical project of approximately 30,000 words (or similar).

Performance

Work to develop a capacity for instrumental or vocal performance, towards a professional standard. You will be assessed by a 50-60 minute practical recital and 30 minute lecture recital with submitted script.

Composition

You'll be supported to develop extensive creative originality, and appreciation of the practical realities of, contemporary composition. The assessment is through a portfolio of original compositions (30 minutes) and a critical commentary of 5000 words.

Technology

Develop your capacity for digital composition, arranging, recording and/or sound manipulation in the studio towards a professional standard. The assessment is a 60-70 minute recording project and a critical commentary of 5000 words.

 

This module is worth 120 credits.

Your opportunity for in-depth work on a specialised topic, working with staff members in an area of their expertise. There are four strands corresponding to the department's research strengths:

  • Contemporary Music
  • Music on Stage and Screen
  • Ethnomusicology/Cultural Study of Music
  • Performance and History

You will select one of these as your specialised topic for the Autumn semester.

This module is worth 20 credits.

Your opportunity for in-depth work on a specialised topic, working with staff members in an area of their expertise. There are four strands corresponding to the department's research strengths:

  • Contemporary Music
  • Music on Stage and Screen
  • Ethnomusicology/Cultural Study of Music
  • Performance and History

You will select one of these as your specialised topic for the Spring semester.

This module is worth 20 credits.

This module introduces you to the wide range of interdisciplinary research happening in the Faculty of Arts. We invite you to ‘think outside the box’ in relation to your own research, while learning key research techniques and methods. The module aims to:

  • introduce the ideas, practices, complexities, and opportunities of interdisciplinary research in the arts
  • enable you to practice critical self-reflexivity about the conventions and expectations of your own disciplines in relation to those of others
  • train you in core research skills necessary for graduate-level study
  • develop your confidence in communicating research findings to non-specialist audiences

You will build on your existing research skills gained from your university career to date. Furthermore, you will develop a more nuanced understanding of your own research practice, inspiring you to explore different approaches questions. In addition, you will develop an understanding of professional practice in areas such as:

  • academic publishing
  • knowledge exchange
  • dissertation planning and writing
  • professional communication

This module is worth 20 credits.

The above is a sample of the typical modules we offer but is not intended to be construed and/or relied upon as a definitive list of the modules that will be available in any given year. Modules (including methods of assessment) may change or be updated, or modules may be cancelled, over the duration of the course due to a number of reasons such as curriculum developments or staffing changes. Please refer to the module catalogue for information on available modules. This content was last updated on 04 December 2024.

Due to timetabling availability, there may be restrictions on some module combinations.

Entry requirements

All candidates are considered on an individual basis and we accept a broad range of qualifications. The entrance requirements below apply to 2025 entry.

QualificationMRes
Degree

2:1 (or international equivalent) in music or a related subject

Portfolio

Depending on which specialism you want to follow, you will also need:

  • Composition: portfolio of two compositions with at least one notated (one can be electro/acoustic)
  • Performance: 20 to 30 minutes of contrasting repertoire, submitted as a recent unedited video performance (online or DVD)
  • Music technology: portfolio of audio recordings lasting between 40 to 60 minutes (CD or uncompressed 24-bit audio download)
  • Musicology: an example of your written work, 3000 to 5000 words long
Additional information

All applicants must also submit a brief research proposal, containing:

  • proposed title
  • aims, objectives, methods
  • summary of content
  • outline bibliography

Guidance on writing a research proposal.

QualificationMRes
Degree

2:1 (or international equivalent) in music or a related subject

International and EU equivalents

We accept a wide range of qualifications from all over the world.

For information on entry requirements from your country, see our country pages.

Portfolio

Depending on which specialism you want to follow, you will also need:

  • Composition: portfolio of two compositions with at least one notated (one can be electro/acoustic)
  • Performance: 20 to 30 minutes of contrasting repertoire, submitted as a recent unedited video performance (online or DVD)
  • Music technology: portfolio of audio recordings lasting between 40 to 60 minutes (CD or uncompressed 24-bit audio download)
  • Musicology: an example of your written work, 3000 to 5000 words long
Additional information

All applicants must also submit a brief research proposal, containing:

  • proposed title
  • aims, objectives, methods
  • summary of content
  • outline bibliography

Guidance on writing a research proposal.

IELTS6.5 (no less than 6.0 in any element)
English language requirements

As well as IELTS (listed above), we also accept other English language qualifications.

This includes TOEFL iBT, Pearson PTE, GCSE, IB and O level English.

Meeting our English language requirements

If you need support to meet the required level, you may be able to attend a presessional English course. Presessional courses teach you academic skills in addition to English language. Our Centre for English Language Education is accredited by the British Council for the teaching of English in the UK.

If you successfully complete your presessional course to the required level, you can then progress to your degree course. This means that you won't need to retake IELTS or equivalent.

For on-campus presessional English courses, you must take IELTS for UKVI to meet visa regulations. For online presessional courses, see our CELE webpages for guidance.

Visa restrictions

International students must have valid UK immigration permissions for any courses or study period where teaching takes place in the UK. Student route visas can be issued for eligible students studying full-time courses. The University of Nottingham does not sponsor a student visa for students studying part-time courses. The Standard Visitor visa route is not appropriate in all cases. Please contact the university’s Visa and Immigration team if you need advice about your visa options.

We recognise that applicants have a variety of experiences and follow different pathways to postgraduate study.

We treat all applicants with alternative qualifications on an individual basis. We may also consider relevant work experience.

If you are unsure whether your qualifications or work experience are relevant, contact us.

Applying

We encourage you to get in touch with a member of academic staff about your research proposal before submitting an application. They may be able to help you with your proposal and offer support to find funding opportunities in your area.

You will have a supervisor who will offer expert guidance, support and feedback throughout your course.

Supervisors and their research specialisms

Our step-by-step guide contains everything you need to know about applying for postgraduate research.

How to apply

Fees

QualificationMRes
Home / UK£5,350
International£23,000

Additional information for international students

If you are a student from the EU, EEA or Switzerland, you may be asked to complete a fee status questionnaire and your answers will be assessed using guidance issued by the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA).

These fees are for full-time study. If you are studying part-time, you will be charged a proportion of this fee each year (subject to inflation).

Additional costs

All students will need at least one device to approve security access requests via Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). We also recommend students have a suitable laptop to work both on and off-campus. For more information, please check the equipment advice.

Students specialising in performance for their MRes course are entitled to receive 18 hours of practical tuition and a subsidy towards the cost of hiring an accompanist for recital and lecture-recital assessments. Additional costs may be incurred for maintaining their own instruments.

Funding

Thanks to the generosity of our alumni and partners we sometimes have specific funding available for Music postgraduate students.

Funding for Music postgraduate students

There are also funding opportunities which are only open to students within the Faculty of Arts.

Postgraduate funding for Faculty of Arts students

School of Humanities masters scholarships

Aimed at UK and international students intending to progress on to PhD research. The scholarships cover:

Full details and application form

There are many ways to fund your research degree, from scholarships to government loans.

Check our guide to find out more about funding your postgraduate degree.

Postgraduate funding

Support

The department's lively research culture offers the chance to hear visiting scholars and practitioners from elsewhere in the UK and from overseas. Events include:

  • regular research seminars
  • professional concerts
  • colloquia
  • conferences

Research in progress

These sessions for staff and postgraduates give you the space to present your developing work in a friendly and constructive environment. They also allow you to broaden your knowledge of the subject and gain a better sense of how research develops as part of an interactive process.

Research centres

The department hosts two research centres that you are encouraged to get involved in. They offer opportunities for research, performance and event support.

Nottingham Forum for Artistic Research (NottFAR)

NottFAR features performances and composers from our staff and high profile guests from around the UK and abroad. Performances are both on-campus and at major venues in Nottingham such as the Royal Concert Hall and Rough Trade.

Centre for Music on Stage and Screen (MOSS)

Promotes the interaction of history, theory and practice in the study of opera, ballet, melodrama, film, video and other multi-media performance genres. It encourages multi-disciplinary and inter-institutional collaboration.

Performance opportunities

There are numerous opportunities to get involved in performing for both players and singers including:

  • University-wide orchestra and choir
  • Over 20 dedicated ensembles covering all types of music
  • A lively and wide-ranging musical culture in the city of Nottingham

Find out more about performance opportunities

Language learning

You can make full use of the Language Centre facilities for both research-specific learning and personal interest. 

Find out more about our postgraduate support and community.

Researcher training and development

The Researcher Academy is the network for researchers, and staff who support them. We work together to promote a healthy research culture, to cultivate researcher excellence, and develop creative partnerships that enable researchers to flourish.

Postgraduate researchers at Nottingham have access to our online Members’ area, which includes a wealth of resources, access to training courses and award-winning postgraduate placements.

Graduate centres

Our graduate centres are dedicated community spaces on campus for postgraduates.

Each space has areas for:

  • studying
  • socialising
  • computer work
  • seminars
  • kitchen facilities

Student support

You will have access to a range of support services, including:

  • academic and disability support
  • childcare services
  • counselling service
  • faith support
  • financial support
  • mental health and wellbeing support
  • visa and immigration advice
  • welfare support

Students' Union

Our Students' Union represents all students. You can join the Postgraduate Students’ Network or contact the dedicated Postgraduate Officer.

There are also a range of support networks, including groups for:

  • international students
  • black and minority ethnic students
  • students who identify as women
  • students with disabilities
  • LGBT+ students

SU Advice provides free, independent and confidential advice on issues such as accommodation, financial and academic difficulties.

Where you will learn

Record, compose, research and experiment

We also have strong links with venues and spaces in the rest of Nottingham.

Careers

Whether you are considering a career in academia, industry or haven't yet decided, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Expert staff will work with you to explore PhD career options and apply for vacancies, develop your interview skills and meet employers. You can book a one-to-one appointment, take an online course or attend a workshop.

International students who complete an eligible degree programme in the UK on a student visa can apply to stay and work in the UK after their course under the Graduate immigration route. Eligible courses at the University of Nottingham include bachelors, masters and research degrees, and PGCE courses.

Our graduates go on to many different careers. Examples include:

  • Music management
  • Programme controller
  • Composer
  • Civil Service Fast Stream
  • Marketing
  • Law
  • Accountancy
  • Airline pilot

We have a good track record of students progressing on to our PhD programmes in music, composition and performance. 

Three Faculty of Arts masters students share what they got out of their advanced study.

50% of postgraduates from SCHOOL/COURSE NAME secured graduate level employment or further study within 15 months of graduation. The average annual salary for these graduates was £25,000.*

*HESA Graduate Outcomes 2019/20 data published in 2022. The Graduate Outcomes % is derived using The Guardian University Guide methodology. The average annual salary is based on data from graduates who completed a full-time postgraduate degree with home fee status and are working full-time within the UK.

The department enjoys a close relationship with a number of performance venues in the local area, providing opportunities for public engagement and real world experience.

Portrait of Nick Baragwanath smiling at camera with sheet music and metronome
This is a course for students with a real passion for music, whether as performers, composers, or scholars. It allows you to choose your own learning path and to focus on what most interests you, from classical to popular and world musics. As a way to gain advanced skills in music, there are few more flexible masters courses in the UK.”
Professor Nick Baragwanath

Related courses

Music PhD

Immerse yourself in your musical passion with expert supervision from internationally recognised researchers.
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Music Performance PhD

For advanced performers wishing to undertake practice-led research at the highest level.
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Music Composition PhD

Develop your knowledge and skills in composition with original research.
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Research Excellence Framework

The University of Nottingham is ranked 7th in the UK for research power, according to analysis by Times Higher Education. The Research Excellence Framework (REF) is a national assessment of the quality of research in UK higher education institutions.

  • 7th among the Russell Group universities for research outputs
  • 80% of our publications, compositions and recordings rated as 'world leading' or 'internationally excellent'
  • 90%* of our research is classed as 'world-leading' (4*) or 'internationally excellent' (3*)
  • 100%* of our research is recognised internationally
  • 51% of our research is assessed as 'world-leading' (4*) for its impact**

*According to analysis by Times Higher Education ** According to our own analysis.

This content was last updated on 04 December 2024. Every effort has been made to ensure that this information is accurate, but changes are likely to occur between the date of publishing and course start date. It is therefore very important to check this website for any updates before you apply.