Introduction
The Master's Degree is a 12-month intensive course that is designed specifically for musicians from all disciplines. The course is aimed at graduates who are interested in combining technological competence with artistic endeavour. This is a 12-month programme containing a 9-month taught section (2 semesters), followed by 3-month research section. All students take the same taught component (except the electives). In the Summer semester, each student works on an individual project. The final degree designation (MA or MSc) depends on the Summer project type. If this project is compositional, an MA is awarded; if technological, an MSc. Facilities include a state of the art digital recording studio and post production facility based around industry standard computer hard disk recording systems (ProTools) and includes dedicated facilities for surround sound mixing and mastering. The studio complex is networked with the music technology laboratory which features computer music and audio workstations.
Objectives
- To produce competent software developers who will be suitable for employment as programmers with a specific focus on the use of computer technology in music and sound;
- To produce competent music technologists, composers and performers working at the leading edge of music, science and technology.
The unique features of this development include: The production of a new type of multidisciplinary graduate who combines technological competence with artistic/creative endeavour. The effect of this course on a student's education is additive in that, unlike some postgraduate retraining programmes, this course enables all students to capitalise on their existing education and to extend their capabilities by combining them with technology.
Programme Content
Semester 1
Acoustics and Psychoacoustics, MIDI and Computer Programming, Sound Synthesis and Manipulation, Electronic Arts 1, Audio Technology and Production Techniques, Research Methods & Practice.
Semester 2
Programming Music Systems, Computer Systems and Models in Music, Electronic Arts 2, Project 1
Electives (choose one):
Interactive Media in Public Spaces, Media Programming, Human Computer Interaction; Music of the 20th Century.
Careers
Areas graduates have progressed include: recording, multimedia, software, composition, performance and education.
Entrance Requirements
A primary degree with first or second class honours (Level 8 - National Qualifications Authority of Ireland) (or equivalent) and demonstrable musical experience OR an equivalent capability based on significant and substantial prior professional experience. Applicants must have at least Grade 4 Music Theory (Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music) standard or equivalent.
What to Include with your Application
- Qualification transcripts and certificates
- English language qualification if English is not your first language
- Certified English translations of your transcripts/certificates where the originals are in a language other than English.
- A copy of your birth certificate (long document)
Application Fee
An application fee will apply from January 2011 to all postgraduate programmes. Please see Frequently Asked Questions for more information on the application fee.
Tuition Fee
The University recognises that many students are experiencing serious financial constraints in the present economic climate. Accordingly the Fees Office will endeavour to accommodate, where possible, the payment of fees via an agreed instalment payment plan. For further details please contact the Fees Office at feesoffice@ul.ie. Click here for details on the fee schedule.
Application Deadline
The application process is now open. The initial application deadline has been extended to Friday 15th June 2012. Applicants who meet the entry requirements and apply by this date will be called for interview in late June or early July.
Applications after this date may be accepted however places are limited and early application is advised. The final deadline for application is the 27th July 2012.
Contact
Department of Computer Science and Information Systems
Course Director: Nicholas Ward Tel : 353-61-234246
Email : nicholas.ward@ul.ie
