MA Applied Psychology of Music

Year 1

(Award available for year: Master of Arts)

Learning outcomes

1. Explain theoretical approaches used in a broad range of research in the applied psychology of music;
2. Examine key empirical methods and forms of data analysis relevant to the applied psychology of music;
3. Analyse the strengths and limitations of research in the applied psychology of music and identify areas requiring development and further research;
4. Evaluate the contribution of empirical approaches to understanding the human mind and behaviour, and the potential applications of research in the psychology of music.

Skills Learning Outcomes
1. Identify significant pieces of music psychology research and evaluate the extent to which these can help understand musical engagement and the human mind and behaviour in a range of applied contexts;
2. Design and implement independent research projects using quantitative and/or qualitative approaches in accordance with guidance for ethical research conduct;
3. Analyse data and critically reflect on the research process to draw meaningful conclusions;
4. Develop, support, and communicate extended and sophisticated arguments;
5. Report empirical research in an appropriate, domain-specific style.

Assessment

We use a variety of assessment methods, each of which is chosen to best measure your achievement of a module’s learning outcomes and associated skills, so you and we can understand and support your progress and development. Depending on the modules you choose, across your degree you are likely to encounter a mix of written assignments (e.g. essays, reports, reviews, reflective logs), creative outputs and portfolios (e.g. compositions, editions), recitals and performances, presentations, and project work. Assignments will generally be completed individually, though some may require elements of group working leading to individual submissions.

You might be given a brief, question or problem to be addressed, or you may have scope to determine your own question or approach under the guidance of a member of staff. You’ll be given clear instructions regarding the assessment requirements and criteria, and you’ll receive feedback on your work to support your learning as you progress through your course. Assessments will usually require you to synthesise and evaluate learning from multiple taught sessions and learning resources (e.g. a module’s lectures, seminars, set readings and other online resources), and you should think of your course as a whole, and apply your learning across your modules. Creative, applied and practical work may offer you the chance to take risks and experiment with new ideas and concepts, and in all cases we encourage you to challenge yourself, to think critically and creatively, to move as far beyond your comfort zone as you can, and to reflect on your working process and achievement.

Our assessments are designed to be fair and inclusive, to engage you intellectually and to help prepare you for life beyond University through the development of relevant skills, knowledge and experience.