University of Waikato

What you'll study

The Master of Music combines advanced practical work with supervised research. Depending on your chosen pathway (performance, composition, research or a mixed coursework/research option) you will undertake a programme built around a major project such as a recital, composition portfolio, or thesis, supported by modules in research methods and critical studies.

• Advanced Performance – one-to-one tuition, curated recital programmes and ensemble work for soloists and chamber musicians.
• Composition – development of a portfolio of original works with supervision, orchestration and contemporary techniques, often integrating electroacoustic or multimedia elements.
• Music Research and Analysis – advanced study in musicology, ethnomusicology, analytical methods and historiography, including research design and literature review.
• Research Methods and Project Supervision – training in qualitative and/or quantitative methods, project planning, and preparation of a thesis or exegesis accompanying creative work.
• Music Technology and Recording – practical skills in studio recording, sound production and electronic music where relevant to the project.
• Māori and Pacific Music Studies – opportunities to study indigenous and regional musical practices and engage with kaupapa Māori approaches to research and performance.
• Pedagogy and Professional Practice – modules or seminars on teaching methods, curriculum design, audition preparation and careers in the music sector.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally need a relevant bachelor’s degree with a good academic record, often an honours degree or equivalent in music. Applicants for the performance or composition pathways will usually be required to submit a portfolio (recordings or scores) and may be invited to audition or interview. For the research pathway you will typically submit a research proposal and academic writing samples.

International applicants must meet the University’s English language requirements. Where applicants have non-standard backgrounds, relevant professional experience and demonstrated ability may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Master of Music pursue a range of careers across performance, composition, education and research. Typical career pathways include:

• Professional performer or chamber musician in orchestras, ensembles and freelance contexts
• Composer for concert, media, theatre and electronic contexts
• Music educator in tertiary or secondary settings, private studio teaching and curriculum development
• Researcher or PhD candidate in musicology, ethnomusicology or creative practice-led research
• Roles in arts administration, curation, community music programmes and cultural policy
• Technical roles in recording, sound design and music technology companies

Why study at University of Waikato

The University of Waikato offers a supportive environment for advanced musical study with close supervision from active researchers, performers and composers. The programme emphasises the interplay of creative practice and scholarly research and provides access to studios, rehearsal and performance spaces, and recording facilities. Waikato has particular strengths in indigenous and regional music studies, enabling students to pursue kaupapa Māori and Pacific research methodologies alongside Western practice. Strong community and school links across the region also provide performance, teaching and outreach opportunities.