University of Malta

What you'll study

The programme combines high-level practical work with scholarly study and a research-informed final project. Core components typically include weekly one-to-one tuition in your principal instrument or voice, advanced repertoire studies, and preparation of a public recital or significant compositional portfolio. Complementary modules focus on music theory and analysis, historical and stylistic studies, contemporary techniques, ensemble practice, and methods of music research.

• Principal study and recital: intensive lessons leading to a full solo or chamber recital as a major assessment.
• Composition and arrangement: techniques of larger-form composition, orchestration and usage of electroacoustic tools where relevant.
• Advanced theory and analysis: in-depth study of harmony, counterpoint, form and analytical approaches to a wide range of repertories.
• Pedagogy and musicianship: approaches to teaching, curriculum design and development of a teaching portfolio for those pursuing educational careers.
• Research methods and dissertation/project: training in research methodology tailored to practice-led research, culminating in a written thesis, critical commentary or practice-based final project.
• Ensemble and collaborative practice: chamber music, orchestral or ensemble participation and cross-disciplinary collaboration with other departments.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a relevant undergraduate degree (for example a BA in Music, BMus, or equivalent qualification) or to demonstrate equivalent professional experience at a comparable level. Selection typically involves submission of a recorded or live audition (for performers), a portfolio of compositions (for composers) and evidence of academic ability to undertake postgraduate study.

• Academic qualification: a recognised first-degree qualification in music or a closely related discipline, or equivalent professional experience.
• Practical evidence: an audition recital or recorded programme for performers; a portfolio of recent compositions or sound examples for composers.
• Research readiness: applicants for research-led pathways should supply a brief research outline or project proposal.
• Language proficiency: where English is not the first language, proof of proficiency in English at a level appropriate for postgraduate study may be required.

Career prospects

Graduates leave equipped for a range of careers across the cultural and educational sectors. The programme is designed to support professional advancement for performers and composers, strengthen pedagogical practice for music teachers, and provide the research skills necessary for roles in scholarship, arts programming and cultural management.

• Professional performance careers in solo, chamber and orchestral settings, including freelance work and engagements with regional and national ensembles.
• Compositional work for concert, media and collaborative projects; roles in scoring, arrangement and sound design.
• Teaching and curriculum development at secondary and tertiary levels, instrumental tuition and community music leadership.
• Arts administration, programming, festival management and outreach roles within cultural organisations.
• Further research leading to doctoral study in music performance, composition or musicology.

Why study at University of Malta

The University of Malta combines academic rigour with strong practical training through its Department of Music and connections to Malta’s vibrant cultural sector. Students benefit from personalised tuition, opportunities to perform in local venues and collaborations with professional ensembles. The campus environment provides access to specialist teaching staff, rehearsal facilities and resources for both historical and contemporary practice, while the island’s active concert life offers frequent performance and networking opportunities.

Whether you aim to pursue a performing career, develop as a composer or enhance your teaching and research profile, the University of Malta offers a programme that integrates practice-led training with scholarly enquiry in a compact and internationally engaged setting.