Music (Performance Studies) The University of Manchester

Overview

The MusM in Music (Performance Studies) at The University of Manchester is a unique programme that focuses on developing advanced performance skills and critical awareness of music. This course is designed for those who aspire to pursue careers as performing artists, educators, and researchers in the dynamic landscape of music today. The programme is structured to offer both theoretical and practical insights, enabling students to engage deeply with music from various perspectives, including analysis, historical research, and cultural critique.

Why Music (Performance Studies) at The University of Manchester?

Ranked sixth in the UK for Music and Drama by the Complete University Guide 2026, The University of Manchester stands out for its exceptional music facilities and vibrant cultural scene. The city boasts more professional music-making opportunities than any other UK city outside of London, featuring three professional orchestras and renowned institutions such as the BBC and Opera North. This environment provides students with invaluable exposure and networking opportunities in the music industry, enhancing their educational experience.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

For the academic year starting in September 2026, the tuition fees for the MusM in Music (Performance Studies) are as follows:

• UK students: £13,000 per year
• International students: £27,000 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The MusM programme comprises core and optional units, totalling 180 credits. Students will engage in a range of modules designed to enhance their performance and analytical skills:

• Advanced Music Studies: Research Skills in the Digital Age
• Researching Performance: Issues and Approaches
• Professional and Pedagogical Skills
• Performance Project
• Recital
• Optional units include Historical or Contemporary Performance, Advanced Analysis, and Business Strategies for the Arts, among others.

Students will also have the opportunity to work on a performance portfolio that showcases their skills and creativity.

Guaranteed Work Experience

The programme includes opportunities for community music performance practices, allowing students to engage with real-world music-making scenarios and develop their professional skills in a supportive environment.

Careers with Music (Performance Studies)

Graduates of the MusM in Music (Performance Studies) have pursued successful careers in various fields. Many continue to further their studies through PhD programmes, while others take on teaching roles in schools and colleges, both in the UK and internationally. Alumni have found employment in prestigious organisations such as The Old Vic, NHS, and the BBC, as well as in arts management, music journalism, and music therapy. The University’s dedicated Careers Service supports students in their job search and career development for two years post-graduation.