Program Overview

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Overview

The Music MA (Performance/Composition) program at Newcastle University is designed to develop students' musical skills in a chosen area of specialization, whether in performance or composition. The program aims to provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed as professional musicians or teachers, and to prepare them for a wide range of careers in the music industry.

What You'll Learn

On this program, students will:

• Develop their musical skills in a chosen area of specialization
• Learn the value of collaboration and communication with other musicians
• Build networks extending beyond the classroom and into the wider music community
• Gain a professional level of understanding of contemporary musical life
• Develop their own strategies to support their future artistic development, as a performer, composer, or both

Music Performance Pathway

The Music Performance pathway is designed for students who wish to develop their solo performance skills through expert-led instrumental or vocal lessons tailored to the individual musician. Students will learn ensemble musicianship, creative collaborations, and career development to prepare them for life as a professional musician.

Music Composition Pathway

The Music Composition pathway is designed for students who wish to develop their technical and creative skills in composition. Students will work with a teacher to develop their skills, combining what they have already learned to discover and evolve new approaches and techniques to help them realize their aspirations and potential as musicians.

How You'll Learn

Delivery and teaching methods on the program include:

• One-to-one instrumental or vocal lessons for performance students
• One-to-one supervision for composition students
• Masterclasses delivered by university and visiting staff
• Practical workshops to encourage students to share what they have learned
• A supportive and inspiring community that nurtures students' artistic practice
• Opportunities for live music in the city as both a performer and spectator

Your Future

The program prepares students for a wide range of careers, including:

• Professional performing musician
• Professional composer across a range of genres
• Producer of music in many different practical applications
• Instrumental and/or vocal music teaching
• Music and arts administration
• Collaborations involving music in many different areas of practice, such as film, theatre, games

Quality and Ranking

Newcastle University is ranked:

• 42% of research is classified as 4* world-leading research – Research Excellence Framework 2021
• 65% increase in research power since 2014 – Research Excellence Framework 2021
• Global Top 140 University – QS World University Rankings 2026
• Global Top 160 University - Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025
• Top 100 for Performing Arts - QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025

Facilities

The university has numerous rehearsal and practice facilities, reserved for the exclusive use of music students and ensembles, including:

• 25 acoustically treated practice rooms
• Five instrumental teaching rooms
• A large, acoustically isolated, ensemble/band practice room
• Two large performance/rehearsal spaces (each seats up to 50 people)
• The University's King's Hall (seats 400 people)
• Professional recording and music production suites
• A large range of professional portable recording equipment and tools designed for live electronics and live performance using digital and analogue technologies

Fees and Funding

Tuition fees for 2026 entry (per year):

• Home students: £11,400 (full-time), £5,700 (part-time)
• International students: £25,900 (full-time)

Entry Requirements

The entrance requirements for the program include:

• A 2:1 or above from a UK university, conservatoire, or international equivalent, in music, or a related equivalent degree with a equivalent specialism in either musical performance or composition
• English Language requirements: IELTS, Pearson, Duolingo English Test, TOEFL, or other equivalent qualifications

How to Apply

The application process involves submitting a sample of work, which may include a performance video or composition samples, depending on the pathway. International students may need to pay a deposit of £1,500 or submit an official letter of sponsorship. The program codes for the MA in Music are 4190F (full-time) and 4190P (part-time).