Music and Sound Recording
School of Arts, Communication and Humanities, University of Surrey, Guildford UK


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Postgraduate Study


The Music Department at Surrey offers a wide range of opportunities for postgraduate study, in the form of taught courses and supervised research. The Department has been established for over 25 years and has acquired an outstanding reputation for the quality of its teaching and student support.

Who undertakes postgraduate study?

Postgraduate study can be undertaken for a variety of reasons, depending on personal circumstances and interests. These may include

Most people undertaking a postgraduate course already have a first degree (Bachelors degree or equivalent), but it is also possible to consider applications from those with equivalent professional experience or alternative qualifications. Applications are also welcomed from the EC and overseas.

Postgraduate Options in the Music Department

The following courses are offered. Approximate durations are indicated, and further details are given in the linked material.

Master of Music (MMus) 1 or 2 years
This is a taught course consisting of a selection of advanced study modules, followed by a specialised project. The course occupies the complete academic year from Autumn to Autumn. Module outlines and sample illustrations of paths through the MMus course are given on separate pages.

Postgraduate Diploma (PGDipl) ~ 1 year
This course involves taught elements from the MMus course but omits the specialised project.

Master of Research (MRes) ~ 1 or 2 years
This is a course with a taught research training and musicology modules leading to a 120-credit dissertation.

Master of Philosophy (MPhil) ~ 2 to 3 years
This is a research degree course during which you will study in a specialised area under individual supervision. Topics are arranged by negotiation with academic staff, in their areas of expertise. MPhil study involves a well-structured programme of research culminating in a thesis, although this is not expected to reach the level of originality required for a PhD degree. Most PhD students initially register for MPhil and progress to PhD status if their research shows sufficient promise after the first year.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) ~3 to 5 years
PhD courses involve original research work or composition conducted under individual supervision, as for MPhil. Areas of research specialisation in the Department are illustrated in the linked material. The research culminates in a substantial thesis which is expected to make a distinct contribution to knowledge in the field concerned, or in a composition folio which includes accompanying written work.


Modes of study

Part-time or full time?

All of the above courses may be followed on either a part-time or full-time basis. This makes it possible in some cases for people to maintain employment whilst gaining a further qualification. Depending on the units undertaken, it may be possible to follow the MMus, MRes or PGDipl courses on a part-time basis, with attendance at the university being limited to one day per week. For those undertaking research degrees, supervisions are normally arranged to suit both tutor and student, again allowing flexibility for those with work commitments. Many postgraduate students combine a degree with some teaching, either inside or outside the University.

Research methods training

The Department runs seminars for students involved in research, during which methods are discussed and taught. Students present the results of their work to their colleagues, allowing for feedback and constructive criticism. It may also be possible to arrange to for students to attend research methods courses in other departments, where appropriate.

Music research or technical research?

Surrey is unique for its integration of music and audio engineering in a single School. This makes it possible to conduct research which is either purely music-based, purely technical, or which bridges the gap between the arts and engineering. Research in the audio field differs considerably from that in the music field and normally requires the student to undertake controlled experimental work in addition to written analysis, literature surveys and theoretical argument. If you propose to work in this area it is likely that more of your work will take place on the premises than if you were to undertake a music research project.

Proposals are welcomed from those wishing to consider interdisciplinary projects with other departments, or who may wish to collaborate with industry. Part-time registration can be considered for those who wish to follow a research programme which relates to their current employment.

Further information

If, after reading the information supplied here, you need further information or wish to talk to a member of staff about your application, please contact us.

For Music MPhil/PhD:

Doctoral Assistant
School of Arts, Communication and Humanities
University of Surrey
Guildford GU2 7XH
United Kingdom

Telephone: +44 (0)1483 682838 (direct line)
Fax: +44 (0)1483 686501
University switchboard: +44 (0)1483 300800
Email: musicresearch@surrey.ac.uk

For Music PGDip/MMus/MRes:

Postgraduate Programmes Administrator
School of Arts, Comunication and Humanities
University of Surrey
Guildford GU2 7XH
United Kingdom

Telephone: +44 (0)1483 686228 686228 (direct line)
Fax: +44 (0)1483 686171
University switchboard: +44 (0)1483 300800
Email: mastermusic@surrey.ac.uk

View further information about the Institute of Sound Recording

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