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Maynooth University Department of Music

Qualification : MASTER OF ARTS DEGREE

Award Type and NFQ level : TAUGHT MASTERS (9)

CAO/PAC code : MHT57

CAO Points :

Closing Date : 30 August 2025

The MA Composition at Maynooth University provides a supportive yet stimulating environment in which to develop your individual compositional style. The focus of the course is the creation of a professional portfolio of compositions, supported by regular one-to-one tuition from the experienced composers in the Department of Music. Core modules in contemporary compositional technique and the study of works and writings of other composers help broaden your compositional focus and allow you to develop your own voice in the exciting world of contemporary music. These activities are complimented by regular talks and consultations with visiting professional composers and opportunities for performance of your works by visiting performers and student ensembles.

Click here for brochure MA in Composition

September entry

Honours degree normally with a minimum of Grade 2.1 in music. Candidates are required to submit three examples of their compositional output (ideally as PDF scores, with recordings where available) with their application that demonstrate attainment equivalent to high 2.1 BA level skills. Candidates may be shortlisted for interview. International students whose first language is not English are required to present an English language exam certificate showing IELTS 6.5 (or equivalent).

 

Applicants for whom English is not their first language are required to demonstrate their proficiency in English in order to benefit fully from their course of study. For information about English language tests accepted and required scores, please see here. The requirements specified are applicable for both EU and International applicants.

Maynooth University's TOEFL code is 8850

A portfolio of compositions supported by modules in contemporary compositional techniques, contemporary aesthetics and a range of electives from the MA in Creative Music Technologies (e.g. electroacoustic composition) and MA in Musicology (e.g. Music & Gender).

Course Duration: 2 years, part-time

Course Duration: 2 years part-time

Recent graduates have gone on to enjoy successful careers as composer (for media and art-music), arranger, performer/improviser, music copyist, essayist/critic, and in fields such as arts management and broadcasting amongst others. The skills developed in the MA in Composition are transferable to many diverse areas of employment beyond the creative industries, including primary, secondary and third-level education, research based careers (e.g. research and consultative work, not only in the arts but also general public sector organisations), and administrative or managerial roles. 

For example, non-arts-based companies also look for creative, independent employees and their particular skillset. Key skills are developed throughout the course, such as:

  • Identifying, analysing and solving problems;
  • Prioritising tasks, coping with complexity, setting achievable goals and taking action;
  • Working independently and as a team;
  • Communicating (both orally and in writing);
  • Demonstrating confidence and motivation to start and finish the job, adaptability/flexibility, creativity, initiative, leadership, decision-making, negotiating and the ability to cope with stress;
  • Applying and exploiting information technology;
  • Demonstrating critical evaluation of the outcomes of the professional practice;
  • Reflecting on and evaluate one's own practice.

Postgraduate options - The MA in Composition also prepares students for doctoral study in composition. 

For further information on Postgraduate options please go to Graduate Studies

 

Applications for postgraduate courses will open mid-October. Further information on how to apply for the course will be provided then. If you have any queries please contact [email protected]

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