MA by Independent Study

Many students of Music, Technology and Innovation have chosen to undertake the MA by Independent Study. The key to this programme is its flexibility. Students can negotiate the nature and scope of their work and assessment through the development of the learning contract. The MA can accommodate numerous combinations of approaches appropriate to the chosen subject, and the mentor ensures that work remains on target and at postgraduate level.

Indicative content

The degree consists of 180 credits of study, which can incorporate and integrate practical and theoretical work. In general, if a practical major project is undertaken, such as compositions or software development, a written critical/contextual element will be expected within the range of projects completed.

This information should be read in conjunction with the MA by Independent Study Student Handbook and is presented as a guide only.

Research Methods

(HUMS5001 15 credits)

This consists of a taught subject-specific research methods paper in term 1.

Diagnostic Project

(ca. 15 – 25 credits)

A project designed to clarify the scope and focus of the central topic of study for the degree. This is likely to embody a critical appraisal of literature and/or musical repertoire relevant to the area of study. Any mode of presentation appropriate to the handling of textual information may be used, such as a written essay or website.

Project 1

(ca. 30 credits)

A project designed to develop practical or research skills within the candidate’s chosen subject matter. For example, if the major project is to be a written dissertation, this project may be in a related practical area, such as a composition investigating a genre or technological application. If the major project is to be a piece of creative work, Project 1 may take the form of a substantial analysis of a work or works from relevant repertoire, or (if appropriate) an extended commentary on the process of developing software used in the realisation of the work. Performance, where relevant, may be considered as a component (eg. the realisation of a relevant major work from the electroacoustic repertoire, with suitable contextualisation in a written report).

Project 2

(ca. 40 credits)

As above, but with the potential to further develop ideas or investigate a complementary area.

Dissertation/Major Project

(ca. 60 - 70 credits, but no more than 90)

A substantial piece of work bringing together ideas and issues developed in earlier projects and reflecting the research methods skills learned at the start of the programme. This may be practical or theoretical in nature, eg. a portfolio of compositions, extended essay or software/hardware tools. Written work will normally be in the range of 15,000 – 20,000 words, and compositions in the range of 30 – 40 minutes.

Additional Information

The De Montfort University website provides additional information on the MA by Independent Study .

See the Contacts page for information on whom to contact within De Montfort University for enquires regarding the MA by Independent Study.

page updated 15 September, 2010 12:15