The MSc/Diploma in Acoustics and Music Technology (AMT) is an exciting one-year taught Masters degree that provides a broad-based foundation in the musical and multimedia applications of acoustics and audio technology.
The programme developed out of a long standing collaboration in teaching and research between music and the sciences at the University of Edinburgh, and offers a unique opportunity to combine studies of the creative applications of modern music technology with a solid grounding in the underlying scientific principles.
The focus is on the science of musical sound, including basic theory and experimental work, as well as programming applications in synthesis and audio effect design.
Throughout the programme, students will have access to the extensive facilities in the King’s Buildings science complex, including computer suites, anechoic and reverberant rooms, and various laboratories. Studio spaces in both King’s Buildings and at Edinburgh College of Art are also available.
Program Enquiries
All enquiries about the program should be sent to the program director, Dr. Michael Newton. Alternatively, use the online contact form direct from this website.
Apply for a place on the MSc
The Online Application form for the program can be found here.
If you have any questions about the program content, please contact the program director. For assistance in the application procedure, please contact Roseanna Macdonald, who is the postgraduate secretary.
Scholarships, Funding and Fees
Whether you are a UK, EU or International student, there are a range of scholarships available through the University of Edinburgh. Please visit the University’s main Scholarships and Funding page to find out more.
There are a limited number of scholarships and bursaries available directly through the Reid School of Music, but these are only open for application once you have been accepted onto the programme. More information can be found here, and separately here (UK/EU students only). There is a further page of related information located here.
The University of Edinburgh charges fees for students to enroll on taught Masters programmes. The rate of these fees depends on whether you are a UK, EU or International student. The list of fees for the academic year 2013-2013 can be found on this web page.
Entry requirements
The basic entry requirement is a UK 2:1 Honours degree (or International equivalent) in a suitable subject area (this is in line with the general entry requirements across the University of Edinburgh). Suitable subject areas include Physics, Maths, Engineering, Electronics, Music Technology, and possibly other Music-related subjects. Other degree subjects and non-standard qualifications may also be acceptable if combined with appropriate professional experience.
For applicants whose first language is not English, there are further, standardised University of Edinburgh English language requirements. Please see page 50 of the Edinburgh College of Art PGT Prospectus (PDF file) for further information.
Further program information
- Further details about the program content can be found here.
- The key learning outcomes are summarised here.
- A number of AMT MSc alumni have recorded their experiences about the program here.
- Numerous lecturers and professors contribute to the program. A list of these people can be found here.
- There is some example project work from previous AMT MSc students located here.
- The current AMT MSc program handbook (PDF file) can be found here. This is a lengthy document that includes loads of details about the program content and course options.
- The Edinburgh College of Art Prospectus (PDF file) for 2013-2013 can be found here, and includes some more information about the AMT MSc (page 12).
Other useful information
Some further useful information is accessible from the School of Music’s dedicated AMT MSc webpage which is located here. This includes a link to the AMT MSc handbook, along with details about the entry requirements.
Please note that the application forms for entry to the program are also hosted on the School of Music AMT MSc webpage. The link is copied here for reference.
There is a lot of other useful information about studying in Edinburgh over on the main University website. This includes an exciting list of reasons to come to Edinburgh for your postgrad Master’s degree.

