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Psychology of Music
The Psychology of Music (MA) program at the University of Sheffield focuses on the intersection of music and psychology, exploring how music affects human behavior and cognition. This one-year, full-time, on-campus program covers topics such as music perception, music therapy, and cognitive neuroscience, providing students with an in-depth understanding of the psychological processes involved in music appreciation and performance.
Graduates of the Psychology of Music (MA) program will be well-prepared for careers in music therapy, education, or research, contributing to the growing field of music psychology. The University of Sheffield’s interdisciplinary approach and its emphasis on research ensure that students gain the skills and knowledge to make meaningful contributions to the field.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Psychology of Music
- Degree Type: Master of Arts
- Duration: 1 year
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 06 September 2026
- Location: University of Sheffield, United Kingdom
- Field of Study: Psychology
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations of the Psychology of Music
- Introduction to the Psychology of Music
- Cognitive and Neural Mechanisms of Music Perception
- Music and Emotion: Psychological Perspectives
- Research Methods in Music Psychology
- Music Cognition and Memory
Semester 2 – Advanced Topics in the Psychology of Music
- Music and Development: Psychological Perspectives
- Music, Culture, and Social Identity
- Music Therapy and Clinical Applications
- Music and the Brain: Neuropsychological Perspectives
- Dissertation Preparation and Advanced Research
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Psychology of Music program at the University of Sheffield will be well-equipped to pursue careers in academic research, clinical psychology, music therapy, and applied psychology within various musical contexts. The program prepares students for roles such as music psychologist, music therapist, cognitive researcher, clinical practitioner, and music educator. Graduates can work in diverse settings, including music therapy clinics, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, research institutions, universities, and arts organizations. The program’s focus on neuroscience, cognition, and emotion in music also opens up opportunities in neuropsychological research, cognitive science, and behavioral psychology. For those who wish to continue their academic journey, this program provides an excellent foundation for pursuing a PhD in music psychology, neuroscience, or related fields.
Why Choose This Program
The Psychology of Music program at the University of Sheffield offers a unique interdisciplinary approach that combines psychology, neuroscience, and music studies. Students will gain a deep understanding of how music affects the brain, emotion, and behavior, and explore how these effects can be applied in therapeutic, educational, and clinical settings. The program emphasizes both theoretical and practical knowledge, with students having the opportunity to engage in hands-on research projects and clinical applications. Sheffield’s strong research culture, combined with its world-class facilities and expert faculty, ensures that students receive cutting-edge training in music cognition, emotion, and neuroscience. The program also provides opportunities for collaboration with professionals from the music therapy and clinical psychology fields, making it an ideal choice for those looking to pursue careers in music therapy, psychological research, or clinical practice.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +44 114 222 1234
Email: admissions@sheffield.ac.uk
Address: University of Sheffield, Western Bank, Sheffield, S10 2TN, United Kingdom
