Courses / Course

Honours degree normally with a minimum of Grade 2.1 in music. Candidates are required to submit three examples of their compositional output (ideally as PDF scores, with recordings where available) with their application that demonstrate attainment equivalent to high 2.1 BA level skills. Candidates may be shortlisted for interview. International students whose first language is not English are required to present an English language exam certificate showing IELTS 6.5 (or equivalent).

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

Online application only http://www.pac.ie/maynoothuniversity

PAC Code
MHT56

The following information should be forwarded to PAC, 1 Courthouse Square, Galway or uploaded to your online application form:

Certified copies of all official transcripts of results for all non-Maynooth University qualifications listed MUST accompany the application. Failure to do so will delay your application being processed. Non-Maynooth University students are asked to provide two academic references and a copy of birth certificate or valid passport.

Applicants are required to upload THREE examples of their compositional output (preferably as PDF scores, with recordings where available). Applicants may also be required to produce evidence of their written work.

A portfolio of compositions supported by modules in contemporary compositional techniques, contemporary aesthetics and a range of electives from the MA in Creative Music Technologies (e.g. electroacoustic composition) and MA in Musicology (e.g. Music & Gender).

Course Duration: 2 years, part-time

Duration: 2 years part-time

Disclaimer
The modules below are indicative of the content associated with this course of study.
The modules are subject to change as the curriculum is revised and reviewed annually. Please check periodically for updates.

Year 1

MUSIC COMPOSITION The MA Composition at Maynooth University provides a supportive yet stimulating environment in which to develop your individual compositional style. The focus of the course is the creation of a professional portfolio of compositions, supported by regular one-to-one tuition from the experienced composers in the Department of Music. Core modules in contemporary compositional technique and the study of works and writings of other composers help broaden your compositional focus and allow you to develop your own voice in the exciting world of contemporary music. These activities are complimented by regular talks and consultations with visiting professional composers and opportunities for performance of your works by visiting performers and student ensembles. Click here for brochure MA in Composition September entry MUEP60C - MUSIC COMPOSITION Credits: 50 Not compulsory: Module Code Credits Semester Compulsory ACOUSTICS & PSYCHOACOUSTICS MU610A 10 1 CONTEMPORARY COMPOSITIONAL TECHNIQUES I MU633 10 1 ELECTROACOUSTIC COMPOSITION MU619A 10 2 INDIVIDUAL PROJECT MU624 10 Year-Long INTERACTIVE SYSTEMS MU617A 10 2 MUSIC AND GENDER MU649 10 2 MUSIC AND SCREEN MEDIA MU681 10 2 MUSIC IN IRELAND MU647 10 1 MUSIC RECORDING PROJECT MU621A 10 2 MUSICAL SIGNAL PROCESSING MU616A 10 2 SOFTWARE SOUND SYNTHESIS MU611A 10 1 SOUND RECORDING TECHNIQUES MU612A 10 1 SOUND, IMAGES, SPACES MU680 10 1 WRITING ABOUT MUSIC – CRITICISM, JOURNALISM, AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT MU678 10 2

Programme Director Dr Ryan Molloy
Tel +353 (0)1 708 3730
Email  ryan.molloy@mu.ie
Website https://www.maynoothuniversity.ie/music
Address Department of Music, Maynooth University, Maynooth, Co. Kildare, Ireland

General enquiries

To:	graduatestudies@mu.ie
* Message:
* Your email:
	Please type the above security code into the field below.
* Security code:

Course enquiries

To:	ryan.molloy@mu.ie
* Message:
* Your email:
	Please type the above security code into the field below.
* Security code:

Recent graduates have gone on to enjoy successful careers as composer (for media and art-music), arranger, performer/improviser, music copyist, essayist/critic, and in fields such as arts management and broadcasting amongst others. The skills developed in the MA in Composition are transferable to many diverse areas of employment beyond the creative industries, including primary, secondary and third-level education, research based careers (e.g. research and consultative work, not only in the arts but also general public sector organisations), and administrative or managerial roles. 

For example, non-arts-based companies also look for creative, independent employees and their particular skillset. Key skills are developed throughout the course, such as:

• Identifying, analysing and solving problems;
• Prioritising tasks, coping with complexity, setting achievable goals and taking action;
• Working independently and as a team;
• Communicating (both orally and in writing);
• Demonstrating confidence and motivation to start and finish the job, adaptability/flexibility, creativity, initiative, leadership, decision-making, negotiating and the ability to cope with stress;
• Applying and exploiting information technology;
• Demonstrating critical evaluation of the outcomes of the professional practice;
• Reflecting on and evaluate one's own practice.

Postgraduate options - The MA in Composition also prepares students for doctoral study in composition. 

For further information on Postgraduate options please go to Graduate Studies

Many composers in possession of a Masters go on to study at the Doctoral level.

For further information on Postgraduate options please go to the Graduate Studies site