Music Studies

Music Studies staff at Aberdeen include world renowned composers and musicologists. There are opportunities to take courses in performance, composition and music history.

Why Aberdeen?

• The University of Aberdeen offers the flexibility to study music alongside a wide range of other subjects at Honours level
• Specialist facilities include state-of-the-art studio facilities for electroacoustic music as well as a collection of historic instruments, including a 1771 Kirkman harpsichord and two violins by Joseph Ruddiman of the same period, as well as an early piano by Clementi and consorts of viols and recorders
• Graduates in music pursue all kinds of careers, both in the world of music and the arts, and outside it

Programmes

Study Abroad

Study abroad information

The opportunity to take Enhanced Study options as part of your degree and participate in co-curricular activities. See www.abdn.ac.uk/thedifference for more information.

First Year

Students can choose one or more courses in music, including Performance, Composition and Theory, and a broad survey of Music History which serves as the foundation for future study. Please note that entry to performance courses is by audition on arrival.

Second Year

Students wishing to study music at Honours level take courses in Harmony and Music History of the 18th and 19th Centuries; they may also choose to take other music courses.

 Third Year

All MA music students take New Directions: Evolution and Revolution in Music, which examines the hypothesis that 1600 and 1900 both mark turning points in the history of music.  They also take an optional course in music.

Fourth Year

Students write a dissertation either in their main subject or in music. They have the opportunity to choose from a wide range of options, including performance, composition and courses reflecting the research expertise of staff.

Teaching and Assessment

Teaching is by a mixture of lectures, seminar groups, tutorials and individual instrumental and vocal tuition. Methods of assessment include submitted coursework (essays and compositions), formal written examinations and practical examinations (performance recitals and keyboard skills).

Careers

The study of music equips students for a wide variety of careers not only in music but also in the media and business worlds. Graduates have been employed in music agencies and in the management of London and Scottish orchestras.

Finding your direction

There are many opportunities at the University of Aberdeen to develop your knowledge, gain experience and build a competitive set of skills to enhance your employability. This is essential for your future career success.  The Careers Service can help you to plan your career and support your choices throughout your time with us – from first to final year – and beyond.

• More information on employability at the University of Aberdeen.
• More information on the Careers Service.
• More information on careers prospects and employability with a degree in Music.

Entrance Requirements

SQA Highers - BBBB
A Levels - BBB
IB - 30 points, 15 points at HL
ILC - BBBB

For further details of entrance requirements click here

Please click on the links below to find out more information on funding in your area.

• Scotland and EU (Excluding England, Wales and Northern Ireland)
• Rest of UK (England, Wales and Northern Ireland)
• International
• Scholarships

Related Links

• Scholarships
• Entrance Scholarships
• Funding Database
• England Wales and Northern Ireland Finance Guide