General Information for MA in Music Studies
The MA in Music Studies is designed for students who are looking to consolidate and expand their musical knowledge, regardless of whether their aspirations are artistic, scholarly, or professional. Working with internationally recognised scholars and artists in a research-led university environment, students will have the opportunity to develop the analytical, critical, and creative skills for advanced music research. The programme includes courses in historical musicology, music composition, ethnomusicology, and music theory, as well as more specialised areas, such as Chinese music studies and popular music studies. Students will be able to tailor their course selections to suit their individual interests and goals.
The programme is a full-time, one-year course of study. Students will take three courses in each semester (6 courses total). All students will be required to take MUSI7101 Music Research: Skills and Methodologies, which will be offered in Semester 1 (Fall). All other courses are elective. Students will also be required to complete the Capstone Experience course, for which students will pursue an individual research or creative project under the guidance of an advisor.
See the course offerings and a more detailed breakdown of the programme structure here.
- FAQ
- How do I apply for the MA in Music Studies?
Follow the application instructions here:
https://admissions.hku.hk/tpg/programme/master-arts-field-music-studies
- What are the language requirements?
See here for details on the language requirements:
https://admissions.hku.hk/tpg/english-language-requirements
- Will HKU accept the TOEFL Home Edition in lieu of the university recognised exams?
Currently, we are not accepting the test results of the TOEFL Home Edition.
- Can I complete the language requirements *after* submitting my application?
Yes. In that case, we may issue a conditional offer of acceptance. You must, however, complete the language requirements by the spring before the academic year begins at the very latest, although the exact date may depend on your visa status.
Please note, however, that having the language requirements in-hand when applying will greatly strengthen your application.
- When will I be notified of the results of my application?
We may issue conditional acceptance offers on a rolling basis. Normally, you will hear from us by the end of May before the start of the academic year.
- Is it possible to do the MA in Music Studies part-time?
No, we are only offering the full-time programme at this time.
- Will there be an interview during the application process?
No, we do not conduct interviews for admission.
- Do I need a portfolio when submitting my application?
No, there is no portfolio required. However, when you submit your application you can share copies of your documents, compositions, awards, papers, etc. to support your case. You can also include hyperlinks to recordings of performances, compositions, etc. Please upload whatever materials you think will strengthen your application.
- Some tips on applying to the programme:
1. Do not use ChatGPT or other AI tools to write your application. Please only include written materials that are in your own voice.
2. Do not have someone ghostwrite your statement of purpose or other materials.
3. When possible, have your referees send their letter of recommendation from their professional email address, and not from their personal email accounts. If your referee is affiliated with a university, then their letters should include the official university letterhead whenever possible.
4. Letters of recommendation can be in English or in Chinese. But, please note: if they are in Chinese, the documents must be in unicode (for ease of translation).