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Do you hear it—the pulse of an Indian pakhavaj, the intricate geometry of Central Asian maqam, the synth-driven energy of K-Pop?
The MA Music programme explores music as history, politics, and identity in motion. If you see music as central to human experience, this programme is for you.
SOAS is distinctive in its long-standing focus on the musical cultures of Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and their diasporas. Rather than taking Western music as our reference point, we approach music as a truly global phenomenon.
The degree is deeply interdisciplinary, drawing on ethnomusicology, anthropology, history, popular music studies, sound studies, heritage, ecology, religious studies, and philosophy. Students engage with both traditional and contemporary forms, from historical art music to avant-garde sound art.
You will gain industry-facing skills in sound recording and music industry analysis, meet professionals from global creative industries, and participate in a vibrant performance programme. With access to master musicians, diverse ensembles, and a global instrument collection, graduates are well prepared for research or careers in journalism, education, NGOs, and the music industries.
Programme overview
Main Subject
Music
Degree
MA
Study Level
Masters
Study Mode
On Campus
Do you hear it—the pulse of an Indian pakhavaj, the intricate geometry of Central Asian maqam, the synth-driven energy of K-Pop?
The MA Music programme explores music as history, politics, and identity in motion. If you see music as central to human experience, this programme is for you.
SOAS is distinctive in its long-standing focus on the musical cultures of Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and their diasporas. Rather than taking Western music as our reference point, we approach music as a truly global phenomenon.
The degree is deeply interdisciplinary, drawing on ethnomusicology, anthropology, history, popular music studies, sound studies, heritage, ecology, religious studies, and philosophy. Students engage with both traditional and contemporary forms, from historical art music to avant-garde sound art.
You will gain industry-facing skills in sound recording and music industry analysis, meet professionals from global creative industries, and participate in a vibrant performance programme. With access to master musicians, diverse ensembles, and a global instrument collection, graduates are well prepared for research or careers in journalism, education, NGOs, and the music industries.
Admission Requirements
120+
65+
6.5+
2.7+
5+
We will consider all applications with a 2:2 (or international equivalent) in music or a related subject. We will also consider applicants without a music degree who have relevant professional qualifications (such as advanced study in a conservatoire that has not led to a degree) or relevant professional experience (such as working as a professional musician, performer or composer). In addition to degree classification, we consider other elements of the application such as supporting statement. References are optional but can help build a stronger application if you fall below the 2:2 requirement or have non-traditional qualifications.
1 Year
Sep
Tuition fees
Domestic
12,965 GBP
International
25,320 GBP
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:
MA Music
Russell Square Campus, London, United Kingdom
12 monthsProgramme duration
25,320 GBPTuition Fee/year
SepStarting Month
Programme overview
Main Subject
Music
Degree
MA
Study Level
Masters
Study Mode
On Campus
Do you hear it—the pulse of an Indian pakhavaj, the intricate geometry of Central Asian maqam, the synth-driven energy of K-Pop?
The MA Music programme explores music as history, politics, and identity in motion. If you see music as central to human experience, this programme is for you.
SOAS is distinctive in its long-standing focus on the musical cultures of Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and their diasporas. Rather than taking Western music as our reference point, we approach music as a truly global phenomenon.
The degree is deeply interdisciplinary, drawing on ethnomusicology, anthropology, history, popular music studies, sound studies, heritage, ecology, religious studies, and philosophy. Students engage with both traditional and contemporary forms, from historical art music to avant-garde sound art.
You will gain industry-facing skills in sound recording and music industry analysis, meet professionals from global creative industries, and participate in a vibrant performance programme. With access to master musicians, diverse ensembles, and a global instrument collection, graduates are well prepared for research or careers in journalism, education, NGOs, and the music industries.
Programme overview
Main Subject
Music
Degree
MA
Study Level
Masters
Study Mode
On Campus
Do you hear it—the pulse of an Indian pakhavaj, the intricate geometry of Central Asian maqam, the synth-driven energy of K-Pop?
The MA Music programme explores music as history, politics, and identity in motion. If you see music as central to human experience, this programme is for you.
SOAS is distinctive in its long-standing focus on the musical cultures of Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and their diasporas. Rather than taking Western music as our reference point, we approach music as a truly global phenomenon.
The degree is deeply interdisciplinary, drawing on ethnomusicology, anthropology, history, popular music studies, sound studies, heritage, ecology, religious studies, and philosophy. Students engage with both traditional and contemporary forms, from historical art music to avant-garde sound art.
You will gain industry-facing skills in sound recording and music industry analysis, meet professionals from global creative industries, and participate in a vibrant performance programme. With access to master musicians, diverse ensembles, and a global instrument collection, graduates are well prepared for research or careers in journalism, education, NGOs, and the music industries.
Admission Requirements
Tuition fees
Domestic
International
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:
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.
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.
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.
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