This programme aims to provide a fourth level programme in Music for students who wish to engage in high quality research in selected areas of the discipline. In addition, the MLitt in Music includes a number of generic and discipline specific skills modules that will complement its research oriented elements as part of a Structured Research programme at Maynooth University.
The subject of research for the thesis must be approved by the Head of Department and must be based on original research conducted under the direction of a designated member of the Department.
Course Structure
Students will typically take the required and optional modules while also developing their individual investigative work. The department holds an annual Postgraduate Conference, where students have the opportunity of presenting elements of their research. The programme also offers opportunities to study abroad, as the Music Department maintains a number of agreements with institutions in various European countries.
MLitt students must take a minimum of 10 credits in taught modules (at least 5 in generic/transferable modules and at least 5 in subject specific/advanced specialist modules) from the Structured PhD programme.
Career Options
On completion of the programme, the student will be equipped with both specialist and transferrable knowledge, with the capacity for carrying out research of international standards and pursuing a successful career in his/her chosen area. Areas of employment may include: 3rd- and 4th-level lecturing; media, music technology and software industry; research; consultancy; managerial positions in arts organisations, governmental agencies and other areas; archival, library and museum work.
*Price shown is for indicative purposes, please check with institution
Expected September 2025
Maynooth University
MAYNOOTH,
Kildare,
Republic of Ireland
Normally a 2.1 or equivalent first degree in Music or in a related discipline; a 2.1 or equivalent Master’s degree in Music or in a related discipline. Further to application via PAC, an interview will be conducted, where students are expected to present a research plan to the department. Prospective applicants are encouraged to contact members of staff in their projected area of research.
Language Requirements
In the case of Musicological research, students are expected to have some knowledge of the language of the composer(s) or author(s) whose work they intend to research. It is strongly recommended that they build up such knowledge to proficiency level during their studies.
Applicants must have a recognised primary degree which is considered equivalent to Irish university primary degree level.
IELTS - 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in each band; TOEFL internet-based test iBT: 90 with no less than 21 in writing and at least 19 in all other sections; Pearson Test of English - 63 with no less than 59 for each item in the Communicative Skills section; Duolingo English Test (DET) - 120 with no less than 110 in literacy, conversation, and comprehension subscores and no less than 95 in production. (This lower production subscore applies to non-EU applicants only), Cambridge Proficiency Cert. - 176+ on Cambridge English scale with no less than 169 in each skill and use of English. Proficiency Certificate, Grade C or better (CEFR Level C1 or C2); Cambridge Advanced Cert. - 176+ on Cambridge English scale with no less than 169 in each skill and use of English Advanced Certificate, Grade C or better (CEFR Level C1 or C2); ETAPP - C1 or better (CEFR Level C1 or C2); Oxford Test of English - 140 with no less than 125 in each skill; Trinity College London ISE - ISE III with at least merit in each skill category.
Research applications are generally accepted at any time.
*There may be different IELTS requirements depending on your chosen course.
Maynooth is an internationally esteemed ‘young’ university with a rich heritage, offering an excellent student learning experience.