Performing Arts Medicine

The Performing Arts Medicine MSc at UCL is a unique programme providing specialised training to those interested or already involved in offering health services to this very special sector of instrumental musicians, singers, dancers, actors and other performing artists.

The MSc and diploma cover musculoskeletal injury, performance psychology, pain management, assessment and rehabilitation, disability, travelling and touring, dance and music performance science, management of the professional voice and research methodology. MSc students also engage in a research project and dissertation. The certificate is a limited curriculum version for non-clinicians or clinicians who wish to upgrade at a later time.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The MSc programme consists of eight core modules (120 credits) and the research project (60 credits).

A Postgraduate Diploma (eight core modules, 120 credits)

A Postgraduate Certificate (four core modules, 60 credits)

Core modules

• Clinical Assessment and Rehabilitation of the Performing Artists
• Clinical Management of the Professional Voice*
• Pain and Disability Management within the Performing Arts World
• Environmental & Lifestyle Issues for the Performing Artist*
• Musculoskeletal and Neuromuscular Performance Related Injury
• Performance Psychology*
• Research Methodology
• Science of Dance and Music Performance*

*PG Cert core module

Optional modules

There are no optional modules for this degree.

Dissertation/research project

All MSc students undertake a research project which culminates in a dissertation of approximately 6,000–7,000 words, a presentation and a viva.

Teaching and learning

The delivery of the programme is through lectures, tutorials or workshops. Performing arts clinics and performance settings when possible are also included in the programme. Details about the lecturers and tutors can be found here. 
Assessment is through coursework, written examinations and objective structured clinical examinations (OSCEs).

A primary medical qualification (MBBS or equivalent) or a second-class Bachelor's degree from a UK university in a relevant discipline (e.g. medicine, physiotherapy, osteopathy, chiropractic, nursing, sports science, biomedical sciences, athletic training) or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard. A second-class Bachelor's degree (or the overseas equivalent) in psychology, speech therapy, or performance science is also acceptable for the PG Cert.

The Performing Arts Medicine program at University College London (UCL) offers a variety of financing options to support students throughout their studies. Prospective students can explore several funding opportunities, including scholarships, bursaries, and financial aid packages designed to assist both domestic and international applicants. UCL provides a range of scholarships specifically targeted at students enrolled in health sciences and medical programs, which may include the Performing Arts Medicine program. These scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, financial need, or specific criteria such as country of origin or field of study. Applicants are encouraged to check the university’s official scholarship portal regularly for updated information and application deadlines.

In addition to university-funded scholarships, students may also be eligible for external funding sources, including government grants, research council funding, and industry-sponsored bursaries. The UK government offers several loan options for domestic students, which can cover tuition fees and living expenses, with repayment contingent on income after graduation. International students are advised to seek out scholarships offered by their home countries or international organizations dedicated to supporting students studying abroad in the UK. UCL’s financial aid office provides guidance and support to help students identify suitable funding sources and navigate the application process.

Part-time work opportunities are available both on and off-campus, enabling students to supplement their income during their studies. UCL’s career service offers job placement assistance and resources to help students find suitable employment. Additionally, some programs may offer paid teaching, research assistant positions, or internships related to health sciences and performing arts medicine, providing practical experience and financial support simultaneously.

Students are also encouraged to explore personalized financial planning options and seek advice from UCL’s financial aid advisors to manage their tuition and living costs effectively. It is advisable to start researching funding options early in the application process to maximize chances of obtaining financial support. Overall, the university’s comprehensive approach aims to make studying Performing Arts Medicine accessible and manageable for students from diverse financial backgrounds, ensuring that talented individuals can pursue their academic and professional aspirations without undue financial burden.

The MSc in Performing Arts Medicine at University College London is a specialized postgraduate program designed to address the unique healthcare needs of performing artists, including musicians, dancers, actors, and other performers. The program offers a multidisciplinary curriculum that combines principles from medicine, physiotherapy, psychology, and performing arts sciences to prepare graduates for a career in performing arts healthcare. Students will gain an in-depth understanding of the physical and psychological challenges faced by performers, as well as evidence-based strategies for injury prevention, assessment, and management.

The course typically covers topics such as musculoskeletal injuries common in performers, rehabilitation techniques, sports medicine applications, psychological resilience, and the role of nutrition and lifestyle in performer health. Practical components may include clinical placements, workshops, and seminars with frontline performing arts healthcare professionals. The program aims to foster skills in patient assessment, individualized treatment planning, and collaborative working with performers and arts organizations.

Graduates of the MSc in Performing Arts Medicine are equipped to work in various settings such as hospitals, clinics, arts organizations, and freelance consultancy roles. They may also pursue further research or doctoral studies in fields related to performing arts health. The program is delivered by faculty members who are experts in sports medicine, physiotherapy, psychology, and performing arts sciences, ensuring a comprehensive and research-informed learning experience. The course typically continues for one year full-time, with options for part-time study. The program emphasizes practical skills, critical thinking, and evidence-based practice to enhance the wellbeing and performance longevity of artists across a variety of disciplines.

As part of UCL's commitment to advancing healthcare for diverse populations, the MSc in Performing Arts Medicine is continually updated to incorporate the latest research findings, industry developments, and best practices. Students benefit from access to UCL’s extensive research facilities, interdisciplinary academic community, and networks within the performing arts sector. Graduates are prepared to contribute to the evolving field of performing arts medicine through clinical practice, research, or policy development aimed at supporting the health and sustainability of artists worldwide.