ResM Computer Music

Today, computers are absolutely essential for music. And future developments in computing and Artificial Intelligence will have an impact on all professions that involve music. Whether you’re a graduate from the arts and humanities, science and/or technology, we’ll help you to harness computing technology to develop your passion for music.

Immersed in a thriving research centre, our future-facing programme offers the opportunity to study what it takes to make an impact to the future of the music professions.

Careers with this subject

Masters graduates normally proceed towards a doctoral degree either with the University or other universities in the UK and abroad. Depending on how you performed on the programme, you might qualify to progress on to a doctoral programme at the University with the ResM period counting towards the first year of the PhD. Self-employment as performers, freelance sound engineers, and various opportunities in the education sector are alternative employability routes taken by former students.

Key features

• Work as part of a global research centre – the Interdisciplinary Centre for Computer Music Research (ICCMR) – with staff, PhD students and post-doctoral researchers from all over the world.
• Balance your work commitments and further education with the opportunity to study part time for a Master level qualification.
• Gain the skills necessary to progress towards studying for a doctorate degree.
• Develop a negotiated Master’s project to develop your own research interests. Projects can range from developing approaches to composition and performance using computers, to inventing new systems for music and audio production for a variety of applications.
• Enjoy access to music rehearsal and recording facilities, including individual practice rooms, a professional recording environment, digital audio workstations, and instrumental facilities ranging from Steinway and Bosendorfer pianos to valve guitar amps, electronic keyboards, and analogue synthesisers.
• A range of societies and groups are on offer for students to participate, such as a gospel choir, concert band, ukulele society, gamelan group, orchestra, and many more.
• The teaching team recognises and supports musicians from a variety of backgrounds and promotes stylistic freedom, exploration, and creative risk-taking.
• Plymouth offers a vibrant cultural scene, and beautiful rural surroundings and sea coast. Plymouth promotes tolerance and diversity. The University is located at the heart of the city centre. It is not in a remote campus separating students from the city’s vibrant life.

The ResM can be studied either full or part time. You study the core modules listed on this page and attend individual tutorials with your supervisor and regular research seminars. The programme leads to either a written thesis or one combining critical writing with creative/professional practice and can be studied either full time or part time. After completing your taught modules, you continue with independent research, guided by your Director of Studies.

Overseas applicants must submit their application 4.5 months prior to the proposed programme start date. For Home/EU applicants the deadline is 2.5 months prior to the proposed programme start date. There are three possible start dates per year, 1 October, 1 January and 1 April.