Performing Arts — Music

The Bachelor of Performing Arts - Music at the University of Malaya is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to cultivate skilled and innovative musicians equipped to excel in diverse musical disciplines. This degree program offers students an in-depth understanding of musical theory, history, and performance practices, fostering both technical proficiency and artistic originality. Students will engage in rigorous coursework that spans instrumental and vocal performance, music composition, arrangement, and music production, ensuring a well-rounded musical education. The program emphasizes the development of critical listening skills, music analysis, and research capabilities, enabling students to appreciate and interpret a wide range of musical genres and traditions. Practical training is integrated through individual and ensemble performance opportunities, workshops, and interactive seminars conducted by experienced faculty members and visiting artists. Students are encouraged to explore traditional and contemporary music styles, promoting versatility and cultural awareness. The curriculum also includes training in music technology and digital media, preparing graduates for careers in recording, broadcasting, and music industry entrepreneurship. Throughout the program, students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including fully equipped music studios, rehearsal rooms, and concert spaces, which facilitate hands-on experience and artistic growth. The university’s vibrant cultural environment and active partnerships with local and international musical organizations provide students with valuable networking opportunities, internships, and performance platforms. Upon graduation, students will be equipped to pursue careers as professional performers, composers, music educators, producers, or researchers. They will be prepared to contribute creatively and professionally to the global music industry or continue for postgraduate studies. The University of Malaya’s Bachelor of Performing Arts - Music aims to nurture passionate, skilled, and socially conscious musicians who can make meaningful contributions to the cultural landscape locally and internationally.

A Bachelor’s Degree (Hons.) or its equivalent in the related field*

* Note:

• Preference will be given to applicants with a Bachelor’s Degree with CGPA 3.0 and above or its equivalent.
• Applicants with a Bachelor’s Degree with CGPA 3.7 and above can apply directly for the PhD programme.

The financing options for the Performing Arts – Music program at the University of Malaya are designed to assist students in managing the costs associated with their studies through a variety of mechanisms. The university offers a range of scholarships, bursaries, and financial aid programs intended to support both Malaysian and international students based on merit and need. Scholarships are available for outstanding academic performance, leadership qualities, and talent in music, providing partial or full tuition coverage. Bursaries are awarded to students demonstrating financial hardship, enabling access to quality education in the performing arts. Additionally, government-sponsored financial assistance programs such as the Malaysia Education Loan Scheme (PELANTIKAN) or other national funding initiatives can be utilized by eligible students to finance their studies. The university also collaborates with private sector organizations and arts foundations that offer sponsorships or grants specifically aimed at supporting students pursuing music and the performing arts. Payment plans are available to help students spread out tuition fees over manageable installments, easing immediate financial burdens. Furthermore, students are encouraged to explore part-time employment within the university’s arts and cultural departments or related industries to supplement their income while studying. It is advisable for prospective students to consult the university’s financial aid office for personalized advice and to stay updated on available funding opportunities, application procedures, and eligibility criteria. Overall, the university endeavors to make music education accessible by offering comprehensive financial support options, ensuring talented students can focus on their academic and artistic development without undue financial stress.

The Bachelor of Performing Arts (Music) at the University of Malaya offers a comprehensive program designed to cultivate theoretical knowledge and practical skills in various aspects of music. This degree aims to prepare students for diverse careers within the music industry, including performance, composition, teaching, and production. The curriculum encompasses core subjects such as music theory, harmony, and music history, alongside performance techniques tailored to different musical styles and instruments. Students have opportunities to refine their skills through individual lessons, ensemble performances, and project work. The program also emphasizes the development of critical listening, music analysis, and improvisation skills, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to adapt to the evolving landscape of music professions.

In addition to academic coursework, the program encourages participation in concerts, masterclasses, and international exchange programs, fostering a vibrant musical community and cultural exchange. The university’s facilities include modern music laboratories, recording studios, and performance venues, providing students with practical exposure in recording, sound engineering, and live performance settings. Faculty members comprise experienced musicians, composers, and musicologists who provide mentorship and industry insights, helping students build professional networks. The program typically spans three to four years, culminating in a project or thesis that demonstrates the student’s mastery of their chosen specialization. The university’s location in Kuala Lumpur offers students access to Malaysia's rich musical culture and opportunities for industry collaborations, concerts, and internships. Graduates are expected to possess a balanced combination of technical expertise, artistic creativity, and cultural understanding, enabling them to excel in various sectors of the music industry both locally and internationally.