Course Summary
This programme offers a doctoral-level programme in Music for students who wish to engage in high-quality research in selected areas of the discipline. In addition, the PhD/MLitt in Music includes a number of generic and specific skills modules that will complement its research-oriented elements as part of a structured research programme at Maynooth University.
College Link
Career Sectors
This course prepares you for working in the Career Sectors below. Follow the links to get a fuller understanding of the sectors you are preparing for.
Entry Requirements
Normally a 2.1 or equivalent first degree in Music or in a related discipline; a 2.1 or equivalent Masters degree in Music or in a related discipline. Further to application via PAC, an interview will be conducted, where students are expected to present a research plan to the department. Prospective applicants are encouraged to contact members of staff in their projected area of research.
Language Requirements
In the case of Musicological research, students are expected to have some knowledge of the language of the composer(s) or author(s) whose work they intend to research. It is strongly recommended that they build up such knowledge to proficiency level during their studies
Applicants must have a recognised primary degree which is considered equivalent to Irish university primary degree level.
Minimum English language requirements:
Applicants for whom English is not their first language are required to demonstrate their proficiency in English in order to benefit fully from their course of study. The requirements specified are applicable for both EU and International applicants.
For information about English language tests accepted and required scores, please see
https://www.maynoothuniversity.ie/study-maynooth/how-apply/english-language-requirements
Maynooth University's TOEFL code is 8850.
Application Details
Closing date: Research applications are generally accepted at any time.
Please note: All research applicants should contact the respective department before applying to ensure their research proposal aligns with departmental interests and criteria.
Applications are open for the 2026/7 academic year. Visit our online application portal to start your application (see application link above)
We are here to support you throughout the admissions process.
For queries on your postgraduate course options please contact [email protected]
For queries or support on your application process please contact [email protected]
If you are an international (Non-EU) applicant please contact [email protected]
Commences: September (or other agreed time).
Fees
The Student
Career Interests
This course is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests. If these interests do not describe you, this course may prepare you for work you may not find satisfying.
Creative
Creative people are drawn to careers and activities that enable them to take responsibility for the design, layout or sensory impact of something (visual, auditory etc). They may be atrracted to the traditional artistic pursuits such as painting, sculpture, singing, or music. Or they may show more interest in design activities, such as architecture, animation, or craft areas, such as pottery and ceramics.
Creative people use their personal understanding of people and the world they live in to guide their work. Creative people like to work in unstructured workplaces, enjoy taking risks and prefer a minimum of routine.
Investigative
The Investigative person will usually find a particular area of science to be of interest. They are inclined toward intellectual and analytical activities and enjoy observation and theory. They may prefer thought to action, and enjoy the challenge of solving problems with sophiscticated technology. These types prefer mentally stimulating environments and often pay close attention to developments in their chosen field.
Career Progression
Duration
MHT03: 6 years Part-time