The Master of Arts in Music is a respected graduate program at Istanbul Technical University’s MİAM. Designed for students who want to deepen their understanding of music theory, history, composition, performance or music technology, this full-time international program combines academic study with creative and technical training. Students take courses in music history, music theory, ethnomusicology, composition, sound design, performance and music business, preparing them for artistic, academic or professional careers in the global music industry. The program is structured across four semesters and offers both thesis and non-thesis paths.
Located in Istanbul’s historic Maçka campus, this master’s program benefits from a rich cultural context and strong musical tradition. With access to state-of-the-art recording studios, a large music library, expert faculty and creative environment, students develop both theoretical insight and practical skills. The program reflects MİAM’s pioneering legacy as Türkiye’s first fully English music master program, making it an excellent choice for those who wish to pursue music, composition, research or sound engineering from a global perspective.
Key information
Key Facts
- Degree: Master of Arts (M.A.)
- Program Type: With Thesis / Without Thesis
- Standard period of study: 4 semesters
- Location: Istanbul (Maçka Campus, MİAM)
- Study Type: Graduate (full-time, international)
- Admission semester: Fall semester only
- Area of study: Musicology, Composition, Sound Engineering & Design, Performance, Ethnomusicology, Music Business & Management
- Admission modus: Without admission restriction (per institute regulations)
- Main language: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations of Music Studies
- Music Theory I
- Music History I
- Ear Training / Aural Skills
- Seminar: Research & Methodology in Music
- Elective / Studio Course
Semester 2 – Advanced Theory & Context
- Music Theory II or Composition Techniques
- Music History II or Ethnomusicology
- Sound Technology & Audio Tools / Performance Seminar
- Elective Course
- Studio or Ensemble Work
Semester 3 – Specialization & Creative Practice
- Composition / Advanced Analysis / Ethnomusicology Seminar (depending on concentration)
- Music Business & Management or Sound Design / Production
- Elective Course
- Studio / Performance / Research Project
- Thesis Seminar (for thesis track) or Project Preparation (for non-thesis)
Semester 4 – Master’s Thesis or Final Project
- Independent Master’s Thesis or Final Project (composition, performance, research or production)
- Thesis/Project Defense or Recital / Presentation
- Portfolio & Professional Development
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program can pursue careers as composers, music producers, sound designers, music researchers, music educators, cultural project managers, or music business professionals. They may work in recording studios, production houses, cultural institutions, media companies, education institutions, or as freelance artists. Some focus on composition, performance or sound engineering, while others engage in ethnomusicology, academic research or music management. With a global and technical music education and exposure to interdisciplinary training, graduates are well prepared for both national and international opportunities in music, audio technology, creative industries, or further doctoral studies.
Why Choose This Program
Choosing the Music Master’s program at MİAM means joining Türkiye’s first fully English-taught higher-education music program with a broad and flexible curriculum. Students learn music theory, history, composition, performance, sound engineering and music business — gaining both academic and practical skills. The program supports creative and analytical development through studio work, ensemble projects, research seminars and production practice. This makes it a strong choice for those who want a comprehensive music education with international standards.
The program’s strength lies in its combination of technical facilities (studios, spatial sound lab), experienced faculty, and a diverse musical community. Students benefit from a rich musical environment, access to a large music library and opportunities to collaborate on creative and research projects. If you want to build a career in music, composition, sound design, performance or music research — this program offers a flexible and high-quality path for your future.
Contact Information
Istanbul Technical University – MİAM (Dr. Erol Üçer Centre for Advanced Studies in Music)
Maçka Campus, Vişnezade, 34367
Beşiktaş, Istanbul, Türkiye
Tel: +90 212 247 17 33
Graduate Music Master’s Programme Contact
Address: Same as above
Tel: +90 212 247 17 33
Email: miam@itu.edu.tr
International Office – ITU
Ayazağa Campus,
Istanbul, Türkiye
Tel: +90 212 285 71 12
Email: international@itu.edu.tr
