Master Programme in Pop Music 24 months Postgraduate Programme By Conservatorium van Amsterdam |TopUniversities
Home Universities Conservatorium van Amsterdam Master Programme in Pop Music

Master Programme in Pop Music

Location

Oosterdokskade, Amsterdam, Netherlands
Know More Request More Details Shortlist Shortlist Shortlist
Programme Duration

24 monthsProgramme duration

Application Deadline

15 Jan, 2026Application Deadline

Starting Month

AugStarting Month

Compare Shortlist shortlist Shortlist
University CTA

Programme overview

Main Subject

Music

Degree

MMusic

Study Level

Masters

Study Mode

On Campus

The Pop department of the Conservatorium van Amsterdam offers a two-year master's programme focused on individual authenticity and development of the student. The aim being to train and produce versatile musicians of the highest level, whether they be performers, composers or entrepreneurs in the contemporary music industry. This the master’s programme focuses on deepening and broadening of the principal subject; the student’ artistic project is the basis. The programme is designed in such a way that the student must set out an essential part of his study process. This study path is outlined in the form of a study-plan which is drawn up prior to the entrance exam and which forms a part of the selection procedure. In the course of the study the student works on perfecting his concepts and vision and is guided in creating a team around his artistic and business plan. The student is given opportunity to combine broadening and flexibility with craftsmanship and is guided in such a way that individual qualities and talents can be optimally developed. The master’s programme maintains a careful balance between knowing and being able, and between thinking and doing. The student who completes this course pairs and excellent mastery of the profession with the capacity for critical reflection and artistic innovation. The CvA works closely with other high-quality academic programmes. It cooperates with
renowned institutions abroad, including Thornton School of Music, Popakademie Baden-Wurtenberg, Royal Northern College of Music, and Berklee College of Music. Students of the master’s programme in music can also attend lectures and tutorials at the University of Amsterdam for a number of specific subjects.

Programme overview

Main Subject

Music

Degree

MMusic

Study Level

Masters

Study Mode

On Campus

The Pop department of the Conservatorium van Amsterdam offers a two-year master's programme focused on individual authenticity and development of the student. The aim being to train and produce versatile musicians of the highest level, whether they be performers, composers or entrepreneurs in the contemporary music industry. This the master’s programme focuses on deepening and broadening of the principal subject; the student’ artistic project is the basis. The programme is designed in such a way that the student must set out an essential part of his study process. This study path is outlined in the form of a study-plan which is drawn up prior to the entrance exam and which forms a part of the selection procedure. In the course of the study the student works on perfecting his concepts and vision and is guided in creating a team around his artistic and business plan. The student is given opportunity to combine broadening and flexibility with craftsmanship and is guided in such a way that individual qualities and talents can be optimally developed. The master’s programme maintains a careful balance between knowing and being able, and between thinking and doing. The student who completes this course pairs and excellent mastery of the profession with the capacity for critical reflection and artistic innovation. The CvA works closely with other high-quality academic programmes. It cooperates with
renowned institutions abroad, including Thornton School of Music, Popakademie Baden-Wurtenberg, Royal Northern College of Music, and Berklee College of Music. Students of the master’s programme in music can also attend lectures and tutorials at the University of Amsterdam for a number of specific subjects.

Admission Requirements

In order to be admitted to the master programme at the Conservatorium van Amsterdam, candidates should possess a Bachelor of Music diploma at the start of their study.

Candidates will not only be selected on the basis of their skills as a musician, but also on the level of their original compositions.

To apply, complete the online application form and upload the following documents:

  • copy of diploma(s) granted
  • a recent passport photo 
  • copy of the page in your passport which contains the registration number
  • a short biography/motivation
  • three recordings of songs (at least two of the songs should be original compositions. Max. upload of mp3s is 10 Mb)

Candidates will be selected beforehand on the basis of the recordings submitted. If the candidate's playing on the recording matches the required level, the candidate will be invited to take the audition / entrance examination.

The examination consists of two parts:

  1. a practical aural skillsexam in which students are required to react to chords, to sing intervals, to clap rhythms, to set words to music and to improvise to chords.
  2. the live performance of three pieces, two of which at least are original compositions, with or without a band. Candidates should bring their own accompaniment; the Pop Department does not provide accompaniment.

Further requirements

  • Candidates have an excellent basic knowledge of the national and/or international music industry and perform regularly.
  • Candidates have experience with releasing their own music.
  • Candidates have a clear artistic vision with excellent compositional, production and conceptual skills and want to develop this further.
  • Candidates have the organizational, communication and social skills to market their project in the music industry at the highest possible level.
  • Candidates are interested in and have ideas about doing research during the master programme. Prior research experience is not required.

Songwriters / performers / producers with a laptop as an instrument can also participate in the selection procedure if they have sufficient theoretical and practical musical knowledge and skills.

https://www.conservatoriumvanamsterdam.nl/en/application-and-admission/entrance-exams/pop-music-entrance-exam/


15 Jan 2026
2 Years
Aug

Scholarships

Selecting the right scholarship can be a daunting process. With countless options available, students often find themselves overwhelmed and confused. The decision can be especially stressful for those facing financial constraints or pursuing specific academic or career goals.

To help students navigate this challenging process, we recommend the following articles:

Happy university students

How to get a full scholarship

Looking for a fully-funded scholarship to see you into university? Find out how to boost your chances of getting one.

Sabrina Collier image
Scholarships to Study Abroad

Scholarships to study abroad

Find scholarships to study abroad with our lists of international scholarships – categorized by country, by subject, and by type of student.

Staff Writer image
Scholarship Applications: Frequently Asked Questions main image

Scholarship Applications: Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to all your questions about scholarship applications, including tips on how to find scholarships and chances of success.

Laura Tucker image

More programmes from the university

Postgrad Programmes 14805