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Music and Audiovisual Media

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What you'll need

As part of the application process, you'll need to submit:

  • School or college transcripts/certificates
  • University transcripts and certified translations if applicable
  • Degree certificates
  • Personal statement outlining your learning ambitions

Our application process

  • Sign into our online portal, Apply Yourself, and start your application
  • Submit your application
  • We'll email you to let you know we're processing your application
  • Track the progress of your application using the Postgraduate Application Tracker (we'll send you a link to the tracker)
  • We'll email you when a decision has been made
  • If you've been made an offer, you can then accept or decline it using the Postgraduate Application Tracker.

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Related courses

There are four courses related to Music and Audiovisual Media that you might be interested in.

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Master of Arts

A Master of Arts (MA) is a master’s degree awarded for a postgraduate programme in the arts.

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Course overview

This programme provides you with flexible advanced training that will develop your knowledge and expertise in music and audiovisual media. It offers two pathways; one academic and one practical, which enables you to develop skills according to your own interests and specialisms.

Introduction

Utilising the industry standard facilities within the Department of Music, this course allows you to specialise in areas such as composition for moving image, sound design, screen music analysis, film studies, and sound studies.

You can develop your knowledge and research skills through approaches to audiovisual media including musicology, critical theory, and textual analysis. Students present their research in essays, audiovisual essays, podcasts, soundwalks, and other audiovisual formats.

Film, television, gaming, and web-based audiovisual content creation are all expanding areas of employment for music graduates. The subject is also a burgeoning field of academic study. The MA Music and Audiovisual Media responds to these developments by offering both practice-based and critical studies pathways.

What you'll learn

  • To compose and produce screen music to a high standard
  • To critically reflect on relevant literature, methodologies, and theories of music in audiovisual media
  • To analyse screen music in an engaging manner, drawing on appropriate terminology and theoretical concepts
  • To prepare and present original research in a professional and appropriate manner using the necessary tools and resources
  • To produce original compositions for a professional recording session or concert
  • To work both under supervision and independently; justify and defend decisions taken in the construction and prosecution of research tasks
  • To demonstrate the ability to plan, organise, review, and deliver a large-scale independent project

Course content

Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.

Semester one

The programme offers two core pathways – one academic and the other practical – enabling you to tailor your studies to suit your career ambitions.

For the academic pathway, you will take MUSI553 in semester one, and MUSI554 in the second semester.

For the practical pathway, you will take MUSI555 in semester one, and MUSI556 in the second semester.

All students will take MUSI552 and the major project module (MUSI550). You will also choose three optional modules.

Compulsory modules

Analysing Screen Music 1 (MUSI553)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

This module will introduce students to the skills needed to research, analyse, critically assess, and write about music and audiovisual media at a postgraduate level. Students will learn historical and technological approaches to synchronising music to moving images across a broad range of media, from silent and narrative cinema to pop music videos, video games, and more.

Composing to Picture 1 (MUSI555)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

This module will introduce students to a range of professional practices and applications of screen composition. Students will master the technical skills and storytelling strategies required to synchronise their music to picture in an appropriate and considered way. The module encourages students to build a portfolio of work consisting of a range of audiovisual media. Sessions will be delivered as lectures and workshops in the Mac Suite, and students will be assessed on their curated practical work. During the module, students will gain skills and experience with Logic Pro X.

Optional modules

Composing for New Media (MUSI557)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

This module will introduce students to the process of composing sound and music for cutting-edge interactive media. Topics will include composing for video games, web content, and other forms of modern content. Prominent theories will be discussed and formative exercises will provide practical experience, culminating in a final creative project. During the module, students will gain skills and experience with software such as Unity and FMOD.

Creative Sound Design (MUSI559)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

This module will introduce students to the creative application and choreography of sound in audiovisual media. Topics will include Foley sound, storytelling with sound, the relationship between music and sound, and mixing in 5.1 surround sound. Sessions will be delivered in a combination of seminars and practical studio workshops in our new Foley stage. During the module, students will gain skills and experience with software such as Logic Pro X and Pro Tools.

Orchestration for Screen (MUSI561)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

This module will introduce students to a range of orchestration and arranging techniques common to screen composition. Topics will include writing for orchestra, hybrid scoring methods, and writing for synthesizers. Using examples from traditional and contemporary practices, students will examine seminal film and television scores. During the module, students will gain skills and experience with Sibelius notation software.

Sound and Digital Cultures (MUSI551)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

This module will introduce students to the use of music in digital media, from music videos to social and interactive media. Students will learn how the circulation of music on the Internet has affected music production, dissemination, and reception. Topics may include music and apps/streaming, music/sound/voice and AI, and other forms of modern media and digital communication. The module will culminate in a case study of a digital audiovisual media work.

Soundscapes and Screen Media (MUSI565)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

This module will introduce students to the concepts and creations of soundscapes in screen media. Students will learn how different musical genres and sound effects create ambience and environments in media from films to video games. Topics will include a select history of music and sound design, and the relationship between music and sound. The module will culminate in a creative project that explores or creates soundscapes in audio-visual media.

Voice in Screen Media (MUSI563)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

This module will introduce students to studies of the voice in screen media, which has been a core tenet in the field since the beginning of film sound studies and has only gained ground with digital media. Topics will include key technological processes such as lip syncing and dubbing, theoretical concepts such as acousmatic voices, adapting voice-centred genres like opera and musicals to screen, and the circulation of voices in digital culture. The module will culminate in a multimedia project that centres around the voice.

Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.

Our curriculum

The Liverpool Curriculum framework sets out our distinctive approach to education. Our teaching staff support our students to develop academic knowledge, skills, and understanding alongside our graduate attributes:

  • Digital fluency
  • Confidence
  • Global citizenship

Our curriculum is characterised by the three Liverpool Hallmarks:

  • Research-connected teaching
  • Active learning
  • Authentic assessment

All this is underpinned by our core value of inclusivity and commitment to providing a curriculum that is accessible to all students.

Your experience

As a music student at the University of Liverpool, you will be a part of a small and friendly department. With access to our extensive range of facilities including state-of-the-art recording faclilities, our auditorium and professionally maintained instruments. All while being surrounded by like-minded musicians.

Virtual tour

Supporting your learning

From arrival to alumni, we’re with you all the way:

Why study Music at Liverpool?

  • We pride ourselves on being an innovative department that embraces the full spectrum of music, from the great works of the past to emerging trends such as sound for computer games
  • Our staff and students come from a variety of performance and non-performance backgrounds and share interests that span classical, popular, world and film music
  • Long established as a classical music department, in 1988 we created the Institute of Popular Music – the world’s first specialist centre for the study of Popular Music
  • Music placed in the top quartile for impact classified as outstanding (4*) (REF 2021)
  • Our recently refurbished facilities boast brand new studios, teaching spaces, and industry standard equipment. These include recording and production studios, an SSL studio, practice rooms with Yamaha pianos, a multipurpose rehearsal and performance space, iMac suites and a games research lab
  • In March 2022 we opened the Tung Auditorium, a new state-of-the-art performance venue seating up to 400 people, with space for a 70-piece orchestra.

What students say...

Due to the course being focused on working in industry, I am finding myself to be putting a lot of consideration into career paths. On the MA, I am being given the recourses I need to get my foot through the door and progress into the industry I want to.

, MA Music and Audiovisual Media

Careers and employability

The MA Music and Audiovisual Media develops key skills to those working or wishing to work in a variety of fields related to music and media. The MA programme is particularly suitable for graduates looking to pursue careers in filmmaking as, for example, music composers, orchestrators, music supervisors/editors, or sound designers. Equally, the MA is designed to prepare students for further research at PhD level, and to enable them to enter further postgraduate study, thus offering a first step towards a career in academic teaching and research.

Career planning

Three career coaches standing outside the Careers Studio

Our campus Career Studio is a space for students and graduates to drop into and talk to a career coach. Career coaches are highly trained to help no matter what stage you are at in your career planning. You can access support to find and apply for full-time and part-time roles, placements, internships and graduate schemes. You will also find the help you need if you have a start-up idea or want to create a business plan. You can explore the world of work, prepare for job interviews, and access careers events and workshops. The Career Studio is open Monday to Friday from 10am-5pm, simply drop in at a time that works for you.

From education to employment

Two graduates in postgraduate robes.

We develop our programmes with employers in mind. You will be supported to enhance your long-term employment prospects as you learn. We do this by exposing you to professionals, a variety of sectors and supporting you to work collaboratively with others to develop transferable skills. You are equipped with a clearer view of what to focus on in your area of interest, and to reflect on your studies. Our digital employability tools give you a tech-enhanced curriculum experience and make it easy for you to prepare for the world of work. You can use tools like the Handshake platform to connect with employers and message the Career Studio 24/7.

Networking events

Postgraduate students hold a discussion while sat round a table in in the Liverpool Guild of Students.

You can start building good professional networks by attending events and employability activities. Our events are designed to develop your skills and expose you to many different employers, as well as to help you make contacts in your field. We help you improve your confidence when speaking to employers and give you access to unique opportunities. Our networking events also boost your understanding of the competencies and skills that employers are looking for in their recruitment process, giving you a competitive edge.

Your future

Students from this course can pursue careers in a wide range of professions. These include:

  • Composer
  • Music supervisor
  • Orchestrator
  • Sound designer
  • Academic researcher
  • Lecturer

Fees and funding

Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.

Tuition fees

UK fees (applies to Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland)
Full-time place, per year £10,800
International fees
Full-time place, per year £22,400
Fees stated are for the 2024-25 academic year.

Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support.

If you're a UK national, or have settled status in the UK, you may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Loan worth up to £12,167 to help with course fees and living costs. Learn more about paying for your studies..

Additional costs

We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This could include buying a laptop, books, or stationery.

Find out more about the additional study costs that may apply to this course.

Additional study costs

We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This could include buying a laptop, books, or stationery.

Find out more about additional study costs.

Scholarships and bursaries

We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries that could help pay your tuition and living expenses.

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Postgraduate Global Advancement Scholarship

  • International students

If you’re a new international student starting this course with us from September 2024, you could be eligible to receive a discount of £5,000 off your tuition fees.

Graduate Loyalty Advancement Scholarship

  • Home and international students
  • University of Liverpool current students and alumni only

Completed your undergraduate degree, or studied as an undergraduate exchange student, at the University of Liverpool?

You could get a loyalty discount of up to £2,500 off the tuition fees for this course from September 2024 entry.

  • £1,500 tuition fee discount for eligible UK University of Liverpool graduates
  • £2,500 tuition fee discount for eligible international University of Liverpool graduates.

ANID Chile Scholarship

  • International students
  • Chile

Postgraduate taught and research students from Chile are eligible for this scholarship.

Chevening Scholarships

  • International students

The University, in partnership with Chevening, is delighted to offer this generous scholarship to students who are studying a master’s programme and who have future leadership potential. Please note that there is a fee cap applied to MBA programmes that requires applicants to cover any additional tuition costs over £18,000. You will still receive all additional allowances.

CONACYT Award

  • International students
  • Mexico

The University of Liverpool has an agreement with CONACYT to support postgraduate taught and research students from Mexico.

FIDERH Award

  • International students
  • Mexico

20% reduction in tuition fees for postgraduate taught and research programmes. Must be Mexico national.

Fulbright Scholarship

  • International students
  • University of Liverpool alumni only
  • United States

One scholarship is available for a master’s student from the US and another is available for a postgraduate research student to undertake a three to six month research stay from the US

FUNED Awards

  • International students
  • Mexico

Up to ten awards are available for Masters or Research students from Mexico in receipt of FUNED loans. The award gives students a 20% reduction in fees for all applications received.

Graduate Association Hong Kong & Tung Postgraduate Scholarships

  • International students
  • China
  • Hong Kong

The University is able to offer competitive scholarships for both postgraduate taught master’s and research programmes.

HRM Princess Sirindhorn University of Liverpool Scholarship (Thailand)

  • International students
  • Thailand

The University is able to offer one award to a new postgraduate taught master’s student from Thailand.

The scholarship is open to all subjects offered as a one-year taught master’s programme.  However, priority will be given to those students who wish to study in a subject area associated with HRH Princess Sirindhorn such as science, IT, medicine, the arts, geography, history and languages.

JuventudEsGto Scholarship

  • International students
  • Mexico

Residents of State of Guanajuato, Mexico, wishing to study at postgraduate taught and research levels are eligible for this scholarship.

Marshall Scholarship

  • International students
  • University of Liverpool alumni only
  • United States

One scholarship is available for a master’s student from the US to cover the cost of tuition fees. Another, to the value of £20,000, is available for Doctoral study visit: https://www.marshallscholarship.org/

Turkish Ministry of Education Scholarship

  • International students
  • Turkey

Postgraduate taught and research students from Turkey are eligible for this scholarship, see the Turkish Ministry of Education website https://meb.gov.tr/ for more information.

University of Liverpool Humanitarian Scholarships for Master’s Programmes

  • International students

The three awards available cover full tuition fees, visas and support for accommodation and living expenses.

This scholarship is open to support people who have recognised status as either refugees or are under humanitarian protection under the 1951 Refugee Convention. This status must be held outside of the UK.

The scholarship is open for all postgraduate-taught programmes, excluding medicine, dentistry, veterinary and nursing.

University of Liverpool International College Excellence Scholarship

  • International students

The University of Liverpool will award five University of Liverpool International College students, who achieve the highest academic excellence (minimum 75%) in their UoLIC Pre-Master’s programme, the prestigious UoLIC Excellence scholarship.

University of Liverpool International College Impact Progression Scholarships

  • International students

University of Liverpool International College recipients of the Kaplan awards will receive the £3,000 Progression Impact Scholarship, deducted from first-year tuition fees, on successful progression to their UoL degree programme.

To be eligible for our Impact Progression Scholarships, students must apply for one of the Kaplan Impact Scholarships demonstrating their commitment to making an impact across issues of importance to the University and Kaplan. Themes include:

Sustainability
Women in STEM
Community
Career Focus (Employability)

Vice-Chancellor’s International Attainment Scholarship for China

  • International students
  • China

Details are:
1 (one) Full scholarship
2 (two) £10,000 scholarships
5 (five) £5,000 scholarships
10 (ten) £1,000 scholarships
All scholarships will be awarded after the formal registration at the University and will take the form of a fee waiver.

Please note: This scholarship cannot be combined with any other scholarships or bursaries provided by the University.

Entry requirements

The qualifications and exam results you'll need to apply for this course.

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Your qualification Requirements

About our typical entry requirements

Postgraduate entry requirements

A relevant 2:1 degree or above is required to being this course. Examples of relevant degrees include Music Technology, Sound Production, Composition, Creative Media and more at undergraduate level.

International qualifications

If you hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent, but don’t meet our entry requirements, a Pre-Master’s can help you gain a place. This specialist preparation course for postgraduate study is offered on campus at the University of Liverpool International College, in partnership with Kaplan International Pathways. Although there’s no direct Pre-Master’s route to this MA, completing a Pre-Master’s pathway can guarantee you a place on many other postgraduate courses at The University of Liverpool.

English language requirements

You'll need to demonstrate competence in the use of English language, unless you’re from a majority English speaking country.

We accept a variety of international language tests and country-specific qualifications.

International applicants who do not meet the minimum required standard of English language can complete one of our Pre-Sessional English courses to achieve the required level.

English language qualification Requirements
IELTS 6.5 overall, with no component below 6.0
International Baccalaureate

Standard Level (Grade 5)

TOEFL iBT 88 overall, with minimum scores of listening 19, writing 19, reading 19 and speaking 20
Duolingo English Test 120 overall, with no component below 105
Pearson PTE Academic 61 overall, with no component below 59
LanguageCert Academic 70 overall, with no skill below 65
PSI Skills for English B2 Pass with Merit in all bands
INDIA Standard XII National Curriculum (CBSE/ISC) - 75% and above in English. Accepted State Boards - 80% and above in English.
WAEC C6 or above

PRE-SESSIONAL ENGLISH

Do you need to complete a Pre-Sessional English course to meet the English language requirements for this course?

The length of Pre-Sessional English course you’ll need to take depends on your current level of English language ability.

Find out the length of Pre-Sessional English course you may require for this degree.

Pre-sessional English

If you don’t meet our English language requirements, we can use your most recent IELTS score, or the equivalent score in selected other English language tests, to determine the length of Pre-Sessional English course you require.

Use the table below to check the course length you're likely to require for your current English language ability and see whether the course is available on campus or online.

Your most recent IELTS score Pre-Sessional English course length On campus or online
6.0 overall, with no component below 6.0 6 weeks On campus
6.0 overall, with no component below 5.5 10 weeks On campus and online options available
6.0 overall, with no more than one component below 5.5, and no component below 5.0 12 weeks On campus and online options available
5.5 overall, with no more than one component below 5.5, and no component below 5.0 20 weeks On campus
5.0 overall, with no more than one component below 5.0, and no component below 4.5 30 weeks On campus
4.5 overall, with no more than one component below 4.5, and no component below 4.0 40 weeks On campus

If you’ve completed an alternative English language test to IELTS, we may be able to use this to assess your English language ability and determine the Pre-Sessional English course length you require.

Please see our guide to Pre-Sessional English entry requirements for IELTS 6.5, with no component below 6.0, for further details.

About our entry requirements

Our entry requirements may change from time to time both according to national application trends and the availability of places at Liverpool for particular courses. We review our requirements before the start of the new application cycle each year and publish any changes on our website so that applicants are aware of our typical entry requirements before they submit their application.

We believe in treating applicants as individuals, and in making offers that are appropriate to their personal circumstances and background. Therefore the offer any individual applicant receives may differ slightly from the typical offer quoted on the website.

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Fees and Finance

Discover what expenses are covered by the cost of your tuition fees and other finance-related information you may need regarding your studies at Liverpool.

Changes to Music and Audiovisual Media MA

See what updates we've made to this course since it was published. We document changes to information such as course content, entry requirements and how you'll be taught.

23 March 2023: New postgraduate taught course pages

New course pages launched.