An MA in Music is a two-year advanced degree for anyone looking to dive deeper into their love for music, whether you sing, compose, play instruments, teach, or study music traditions. If you're thinking about a career in music performance, education, production, or therapy, this program might be just what you need. In the Master of Arts in Music, one will learn about Indian classical music, Western music, music theory, history, composition, and performance.
Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree in music or something related from a recognized university. Some colleges may accept students from different backgrounds if they have strong music skills or pass an audition. Most universities want a minimum score between 45% and 50%, and some might have entrance tests or performance evaluations.
After completing the master’s degree, you might consider becoming a music teacher, a performer, a composer, or even a music therapist. There are also roles like sound designer, researcher, radio host, or music event manager. Some graduates opt for further studies like an MPhil or PhD in music, while others can start their music school.
Table of Contents
- MA in Music Key Highlights
- What is an MA in Music?
- Why Study an MA in Music?
- Who should study for an MA in Music?
- MA in Music Eligibility Criteria
- MA in Music Entrance Exams 2025
- MA in Music Colleges in India
- MA in Music Admission Process 2025
- MA in Music Syllabus
- MA in Music Job Opportunities in India
- MA in Music FAQs
MA in Music Key Highlights
Below are the key highlights of the MA in Music course in India:
What is an MA in Music?
A Master of Arts in Music is a two-year program for anyone looking to boost their knowledge and skills in music. If you're into music, whether it’s playing, writing, teaching, or studying it. This course is a great way to advance your passion.
You'll get to explore music more deeply. The course includes topics like music theory, history, performance, composition, music tech, and music education. It's a blend of creative and academic work, helping you grow as both an artist and a thinker.
You’ll also cover things like Indian classical music, Western music styles, modern trends, sound recording, music therapy, and how music influences culture. Lots of universities offer hands-on experiences like recitals, studio work, live shows, and research projects that show how music connects to the world around us.
Why Study an MA in Music?
If you're passionate about music and thinking about making it your job, getting a Master's in Music could be a smart choice. This program combines creativity with practical skills to help you succeed in the music industry. Here are some solid reasons to think about it:
- Variety of Job Options: An MA in Music can lead you to many different career paths, like music teacher, composer, music therapist, sound engineer, etc.
- Build Your Skills: This program is all about helping you get better at music, whether you sing, play an instrument, or write songs.
- Explore Music Cultures: In this course, you'll learn various music styles, from classical and folk to modern tunes from around the world.
- Hands-On Experience: Many colleges offer great opportunities for practical learning. including performing live, taking part in music workshops, etc.
- Make a Positive Impact: Music can heal, inspire, and unite people. If you're into music therapy, education, or community work, this course will show you how music can aid mental health, learning, and social progress.
Who should study for an MA in Music?
If you love rhythm, melody, and sound, getting an MA in Music might be your next best move. This program is for anyone who really cares about music and wants to dive in deeper, whether that's through playing, researching, or teaching.
- You'll work on your technique, explore different styles, and learn more about music theory and history.
- If you’re already teaching music or considering it, this degree gives you the know-how to train others more effectively. It's great for folks looking to work in schools, colleges, or start their own music programs.
- If you have a background in the arts and studied music, dance, theatre, or something like that in college, this is a great next move if you want to dive into music.
- If you're into music therapy or community work and want to see how music can help people, this program shows you what music can do in emotional and social situations.
- If you want to make scores, jingles, or original pieces for movies, games, or online platforms, this course gives you the knowledge and feedback to create impactful work.
- If you want to learn about the origins of music and its connections with culture and society, this course offers a chance to dig deeper through research.
- If you love going to concerts, collecting music, exploring genres, or just jamming out with friends, this degree can help turn that love into a real job.
MA in Music Eligibility Criteria
To enroll in an MA in Music, candidates have to meet some educational and admission requirements. Without fulfilling these criteria, it is not possible to enter the course. Mentioned below are the MA in Music eligibility criteria:
- Completed 10+2 in any stream from a recognised board.
- Pursued a BA in Music or a Graduate degree in a relevant specialisation from any recognised university
MA in Music Entrance Exams 2025
For pursuing an MA in Music, various national/state/university-level entrance examinations are required to be taken. Colleges and Universities in India offer admission depending on the marks or rank obtained in these examinations.
MA in Music Colleges in India
Various institutions in India are offering the MA in Music course; each institute has got some entrance exam criteria for admitting students. Some of the top Master’s in Music programs in India have been mentioned below, along with their total course fee:
MA in Music Admission Process 2025
If you want to get into the MA in Music for 2025 at the University of Delhi, here's what you need to do:
Step 1: See the official website of the college or university for which you are targeting. Usually, applications open between April and July.
Step 2: Fill the application form with your grades from the 10th, 12th and graduation. Be sure to upload any necessary documents as scanned copies.
Step 3: You may need to submit your application online or go to college individually.
Step 4: After testing or depending on your grade, the college will post a list of selected candidates. If you see your name there, they can invite you for counseling or ask you to check your documents. Therefore, keep your original documents.
Step 6: If you are accepted, you will get an email from the college. It will have tuition fees, initial date for classes, hostel information and orientation program.
Step 7: To confirm your location, pay the admission fee or seat confirmation amount before the time limit mentioned in the letter. In this way, you will secure your place in the program.
Required Documents:
- 10th and 12th mark sheets
- Graduation Marksheets
- ID proofs
- Transfer certificate
- Character certificate
- Medical certificate
- Category Certificate (if applicable)
MA in Music Syllabus
The syllabus for the MA in Music in India is more or less the same in the colleges offering the course. The syllabus may slightly differ depending on the curriculum followed by the institute. For reference, the syllabus for the MA in Music at ICFAI University is given below:
MA in Music Job Opportunities in India
An MA in Music can have job roles in multiple fields, including Diplomat / IFS Officer, International Relations Expert, International Trade Expert, Policy Analyst / Researcher, International Law Expert, and others. Some of the common job roles for MA in Music graduates in India are given below:
MA in Music FAQs
What kind of projects do students do in an MA in Music?
Students often work on stuff like writing their own songs, playing all sorts of music, looking into music history, or checking out different musical styles. Some focus on things like ethnomusicology, audio production, or music education. Depending on their interests, they might perform live, study the impact of music on culture, or look into music therapy.
Can students in an MA in Music find jobs or internships while studying?
Absolutely! Many students take on part-time jobs or internships as music teachers, studio assistants, or performers at various events. Some people work at recording studios, music schools, event companies, or arts organizations. These jobs give them a chance to gain experience and connect with others in the music scene.
How do internships fit into the MA in Music program?
Internships are mostly optional but encouraged. Students can take on internships at music schools, radio stations, or cultural organizations during breaks or even while studying. These positions help connect what you've learned in theory with real-life experience, like helping with performances, managing concerts, or working on music projects.
What can you do after finishing an MA in Music?
Graduates have a lot of options. You could become a music teacher, composer, performer, music therapist, researcher, or sound designer. Some find work in schools, colleges, production companies, or as freelancers. Some people might end up in arts management or keep going with a PhD in music. This degree can lead to a lot of different jobs in teaching, performing, media, and even wellness.
Do students use any tools or software during the course?
Yes! Music students usually go for software such as Sibelius, Finale or MuseScore to create sheet music. For editing and recording, Daring, GarageBand, Logic Pro, and Pro Tools are popular options. Many of them also like to use Ableton Live for performance. When it comes to research, they often examine JSTOR and use devices such as Zotero or Mendeley to keep an eye on their quotes.
