MSc in Performance Science

One year full-time
Two years part-time

The MSc in Performance Science is an internationally distinctive programme, providing opportunities to examine the art and science of performance in real-world educational and professional contexts. It challenges students to engage with key facets of peak performance, musicians’ health and wellbeing, musical development, and effective learning and teaching.  

Prospective Students

The programme will benefit anyone who is motivated to gain a scientific understanding of how music is created, learned, performed, and perceived, including performers and teachers aiming to progress their current careers through continued professional development. Equally, it serves as an ideal base for those wishing to pursue advanced research (PhD/DMus) and teaching in performance science, music psychology, or musicians’ health, or in any area in which knowledge of methods and techniques in science would be an advantage. 

The programme is aimed primarily at musicians and other performing artists, although candidates from other disciplines will be considered (see Admission Criteria below).

For further details of topics and content, click here »
For information on full- and part-time study options, click here » 
To read more about CPS people, research, facilities, and services, click here »

Admission Criteria

Entry requirements will normally be a first degree with a 2:1 class or above (or equivalent international qualification) in music, another performing art, or a subject related to performance science, such as education, psychology, sociology, or biology.

Applications from overseas students are welcome. (If your first language is not English, you must achieve Level 7 in the Certificate of the International English Language Testing Service or equivalent.)

Fees and Funding

Tuition fees are revised annually. For the latest information, see the RCM website » 

How to Apply

Online application

Applications to study can be made online through the Conservatoires UK
Admissions Service CUKAS » 

Interview

Following submission of the online application, shortlisted candidates will be interviewed in person or (exceptionally) by telephone. We appreciate that some candidates may not have prior experience in all areas covered on the programme; however, we expect applicants to be familiar with some of the performance science literature, as well as concepts in empirical research.

For a list of suggested reading, click here »

Applications for 2012/13

Application deadline: 5 January 2012 *
Interviews: Week commencing 30 January 2012
Auditions (if applicable): Week commencing 20 February 2012 **
Start of teaching: September 2012

Application fee: £80 (payable via CUKAS)

______________________

* Late applications will be accepted and processed according to programme capacity.

** Only required for students who wish to pursue the additional study route for instrumental, vocal, or composition lessons. For more information, see Principal Study Lessons here »