Music psychology explores the deep and complex relationship between music, the human mind, and the brain. Understanding more about how they interact may help reveal why music is so meaningful to us.
In this pathway of our MA Music, you'll learn about the basic mechanisms of the auditory system and delve into the perception and cognition of musical elements, such as melody, timing, harmony, and timbre. You'll look at the mechanisms underpinning music performance. Finally, you'll discover higher level structures such as compositional form and expressiveness, alongside the basic principles underlying how we experience and appreciate music as listeners.
The course is run in close collaboration with the York Music Psychology Group.
We encourage you to get involved in the lively community of our department, from participating in department ensembles to attending our weekly research and composition seminars and performance classes.
Assessment and feedback
You'll write a literature review, conduct a replication study, submit your MA thesis, and complete three presentations throughout the year.
Careers and skills
This course will give you a thorough grounding in many aspects of Music Psychology and prepare you for a wide range of careers.
With additional qualifications, you could also work in music therapy and clinical settings.
Career opportunities
- Senior Music Therapist
- Music teacher
- Market researcher
- Music and wellbeing practitioner
- Music producer
- Sound designer