Program Overview

Introduction to the MA in Songwriting

The University of Limerick offers a full-time, one-year Master of Arts (MA) in Songwriting, designed for individuals who want to study the artistic practice of songwriting in depth. This program allows students to advance in a career or develop a personal creative practice, providing a structured academic space to explore songwriting as both a craft and an art form.

Course Overview

The MA in Songwriting enables students to create a personal body of work through solo writing and collaboration with a community of fellow songwriters. The course encourages critical thinking, reflective practice, and experimentation with different songwriting styles and techniques. Students will also build practical and academic skills in areas such as music theory, arranging, recording, performance, technology, promotion, copyright, and publishing.

Programme Content

The program is delivered on campus, with modules taught in-person during the autumn and spring semesters. Full-time students take 5 core modules and 2 elective modules each semester. The course includes:

• Songwriting Style and Context 1: Explores the creation of meaning and the construction of identity through songwriting and performance.
• Songwriting Process 1: Explores the creative process of songwriting and develops the skills to produce a body of work for performance and/or recording.
• Media Technologies for Performing Arts & Arts Research: Explores current media technologies used in the fields of performing arts, creative arts therapies, and arts research.
• Professional Development for the Performing Arts: Provides an awareness of professional development skills and contexts central to developing a career in the arts.
• Writing and Documentation of Arts Practice 1: Explores a variety of approaches to the documentation of artistic practices, with a focus on documentation through writing.

Elective Modules

Students can choose from a range of elective modules, including:

• Introduction to Fieldwork Techniques
• Introduction to Ritual Studies
• Independent Study 1
• Introduction to Somatics
• Colloquium 1
• Instrumental Skills for Songwriters
• Irish World Academy Ensembles
• Applied Music Theory for Songwriters

Entry Requirements

Applicants should hold a bachelor's degree (NFQ Level 8) with at least a second-class honour, grade 2 (2:2) in a relevant or appropriate subject, or an equivalent capability based on prior professional experience in songwriting and/or performance. The university will shortlist and invite applicants to an interview and audition.

Fees

The tuition fees for the MA in Songwriting are:

• EU: 7,995
• Non-EU: 18,000

Annual fees are billed by semester, and students may be eligible to apply for a monthly payment plan.

Graduate Profile

This course can lead to careers in songwriting, recording, performance, community music, and music education. Graduates will have advanced skills in lyric writing, music arrangement, and composition, as well as practical and academic skills in areas such as music theory, arranging, recording, performance, technology, promotion, copyright, and publishing.