University College Cork

Overview

The MA in Experimental Sound Practice at University College Cork (UCC) supports artists and composers working with sound across contemporary media, including composition, improvisation, sound art, and performance-based practices.

You’ll develop advanced creative and technical skills while building a distinctive portfolio that reflects your own sonic interests and methods.

• Award: Master of Arts (MA)
• Programme focus: Experimental composition, sound art, real-time and digital media practices
• Delivery: University-based study (check the programme website for the latest timetable and format)
• Credits: Typically 90 ECTS for a full MA (confirm with UCC for the current intake)
• Language of instruction: English
• Start dates: Check UCC programme listings for the next intake
• Tuition fees: Fees vary by fee status; see UCC’s current fee schedule
• Application: Submit an application plus a portfolio of sound-based creative work

Programme Structure

The MA is practice-led and built around studio-based learning, guided experimentation, and portfolio development. Course content may vary by year; the modules below reflect the programme’s typical curriculum.

• Expanded Instrument Systems
• Digital Music and Media Composition
• Composing in Real Time
• Sound Art
• Composing with Field Recordings

Portfolio and assessment: You will develop a portfolio of sound-based creative work (in suitable formats such as recordings, scores, videos, software documentation, and/or installation documentation). Assessment is typically based on the quality and development of your practice-led outputs and supporting documentation.

Optional/extra learning: The programme may include workshops, seminars, and opportunities to present work to peers and visiting artists (subject to availability).

Academic requirements

GPA Your GPA, or Grade Point Average, is a number that indicates how well or how high you scored in your courses on average. Usually a GPA scales between 1.0 and 4.0, however different countries and universities can have different grading systems.

Lower Second Class

English requirements

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120

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OR

90

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PTE Academic PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English) is a language test that enables students to demonstrate their writing, listening, speaking, and reading skills when applying to study in English. The score refers to a total score which ranges between 10 and 90.

63

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OTE The Oxford Test of English is a suite of 100% online, adaptive tests that assess your English language proficiency in Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking. Endorsed by the University of Oxford and developed by Oxford University Press, the tests are available to book at Approved Test Centres worldwide throughout the year. You are given a score and CEFR level for each of the four modules, and for the overall test. Trust in the only suite of English proficiency tests certified by the University of Oxford. Scores range between 0-170.

140

IELTS The International English Language Test System (IELTS) tests your English-language proficiency on a scale of 1 – 9. The score refers to the combined average score of 4 subjects (writing, listening, speaking, and reading).

6.5

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Work rights after graduation

Check for any work restrictions

After completing your MA at University College Cork, you may be eligible to apply for permission to work in Ireland, depending on the Irish immigration rules in force at the time of your application.

• Typical pathway: Graduates may apply for a post-study work permission that allows you to remain in Ireland for a limited period to seek employment.
• Eligibility: You generally need to have completed an eligible programme in Ireland and meet the requirements set out by the Irish authorities (including maintaining valid immigration status while studying).
• Duration: The permitted stay period is determined by the current scheme rules and your circumstances at graduation.
• Job search and employment: Some schemes allow you to look for work first and then take up employment; others may require you to meet specific conditions.
• Important: Rules can change. Always verify the latest guidance on the official Irish immigration website or with UCC’s international student support team.

For the most accurate information for your situation, consult the programme website and the relevant Irish immigration guidance before you apply.