Study a specialist postgraduate songwriting degree from ICMP, delivered at SAE’s Glasgow campus. The MA Songwriting is a highly creative, research-led programme designed to help you develop your songwriting voice, refine your craft and create a substantial body of original work.
As the UK’s first songwriting-specific master’s degree, the course combines creative exploration, critical thinking and professional development, allowing you to shape your studies around your own artistic interests and career ambitions.
Why Study MA Songwriting?
This industry-focused master’s degree enables you to:
- Develop your songwriting practice in a supportive creative environment
- Explore lyric writing, musical composition and sonic identity
- Refine your creative process through research and critical reflection
- Collaborate with fellow songwriters and receive regular peer feedback
- Learn from experienced songwriting practitioners and academics
- Build industry connections through guest speakers, events and performance opportunities
Throughout the programme, you’ll be encouraged to develop a clear artistic direction while gaining the skills needed to build a sustainable career in songwriting.
Creative Development and Industry Insight
Working within a close-knit songwriting community, you’ll take part in collaborative workshops, feedback sessions and creative discussions that help strengthen both your craft and confidence.
Alongside your studies, you’ll benefit from industry engagement opportunities, including guest talks, networking events and live performance experiences that provide valuable insight into the professional songwriting landscape.
Major Songwriting Project
The programme culminates in a substantial Research and Repertoire Project, typically involving the creation of a major original body of work, such as a debut album or songwriting portfolio.
Supported by an expert supervisor, you’ll develop your project from concept to completion while exploring the artistic, commercial and professional considerations involved in bringing original work to market.
Course Modules
- Creative Purpose and Process for Songwriting
- Songcraft: Musical and Sonic Imagination
- The Role of the 21st Century Songwriter
- Songcraft: Lyric Architecture
- Research and Repertoire Project
