Course summary

The Master of Science (MSc) in Performance Science is an internationally distinctive programme, providing opportunities to examine the art and science of performance in real-world educational and professional contexts. The programme encourages students to engage with key facets of peak performance, musicians’ health and wellbeing, musical development, and effective learning and teaching. Drawing on the expertise and facilities of the Centre for Performance Science, as well as the lively performance environment of the RCM and of London, the MSc in Performance Science will benefit anyone who is motivated to gain a scientific understanding of how music is created, learned, performed and perceived, including performers and teachers aiming to progress their current careers through continuing professional development. Equally, it serves as an ideal base for those wishing to pursue doctoral research and/or teaching in performance science, music psychology or musicians’ health, or in any area in which knowledge of scientific methods and techniques would be an advantage. The programme is taught through a series of seminars and tutorials organised around core study modules. Students on the modular flexi-route enrol on and pay for individual modules on a case-by-case basis. Students accumulating a minimum of 120 credits over a maximum duration of 3 academic years would be eligible for the award of PGDip. Those accumulating 60 credits over a maximum duration of two academic years would be eligible for the award of PGCert. The Performing Research II: Project and Dissertation module is not available for modular study. Each 20-credit module is equivalent to 200 learning hours; a 40-credit module is equivalent to 400 learning hours.