Master in Gender And Music Mmus

At SOAS University of London, the application deadline for the Sep 2026 intake is Aug 31, 2026, and tuition comes to 38,833 USD per year.

Engaging with the Gender and Music MMus at SOAS means stepping into a scholarly environment where musical expression is inextricably linked to the social, political, and cultural structures of identity. Students here move beyond traditional musicology, examining how gender, sexuality, and performance intersect across global traditions, from the classical courts of Asia to contemporary popular music scenes in Africa and the Middle East.

This programme is specifically designed for those who wish to challenge the Western-centric canon of music studies. It provides the analytical tools to dissect how power, performance, and embodiment shape sonic landscapes. By drawing on SOAS's unparalleled expertise in world music, students develop a nuanced understanding of how musical practices both reinforce and subvert gendered norms in diverse global contexts.

Distinctive Research Environment

SOAS offers an exceptionally rich, multidisciplinary atmosphere where the study of music is supported by world-leading departments in anthropology, history, and development studies. The programme encourages students to participate in a vibrant research culture, engaging with faculty who are at the forefront of post-colonial music theory and gender studies. Whether you are a performer, a researcher, or a cultural practitioner, you will benefit from a curriculum that values diverse methodologies—ranging from ethnomusicological fieldwork to critical performance analysis—allowing you to tailor your research to your own specific intellectual interests.

SOAS University of London, founded in 1916 and located in the heart of London, is a globally recognized institution specializing in the study of Asia, Africa and the Middle East. With around 5,349 students, SOAS offers focused programs across languages, politics, law, economics, history and cultural studies, attracting learners who seek deep regional expertise and interdisciplinary perspectives. Its central London location provides access to embassies, cultural centers and international organizations, enriching academic study with practical engagement.

Academically, SOAS is distinguished by its language provision, area studies and research on global development, human rights and contemporary international affairs. Small-group teaching, language labs and research-led courses create an intensive learning environment. Students benefit from partnerships across the university sector and with NGOs, think tanks and cultural institutions, enabling internships, fieldwork and collaborative projects that enhance employability and research experience.

Student life blends academic rigor with a diverse, international community and extensive extracurricular offerings. Support for international students includes tailored orientation, language assistance, careers advice and visa guidance, helping new arrivals adapt to London life. Graduates from SOAS move into diplomacy, international development, academia, media and private sector roles where regional knowledge and language skills are highly valued, making SOAS a compelling choice for students focused on global issues and intercultural understanding.