10 Steps to Choosing Your Master’s Program
The job market is competitive. Equipping yourself with an internationally recognized qualification will have far-reaching benefits in every stage of your career journey. In an ideal world, you would want to hand-pick your career and employer. The truth is that the top companies are more likely to choose candidates with advanced degrees before they select someone with similar experience with a lower-level degree. By attaining specialized knowledge and skills in the field of music you are passionate about, you can stand out and gain a competitive edge. The degree can also provide you with business skills, networking opportunities, and a professional edge, making it easier to break career barriers and pave your path to success.
Whether you're pursuing a Master's in Music Business, Music Technology, or another related field, you'll need to balance the advantages against other commitments and the intensity of study levels. By taking the necessary steps to ensure the program you have chosen is right for you and aligns with your career aspirations, you can make the road to personal achievement easier and increase your chances of success in the music industry.
First step: Ask yourself why
When considering pursuing a master's degree in the music industry, it's important to reflect on your personal and career aspirations. While practical factors should be taken into account, such as the specific skills and knowledge you hope to gain, it's equally important to ask yourself: "Why do I want to pursue a master's degree in music?"
This question will help you clarify your motivations and narrow down your search for the right program. Some possible answers could include a desire for a career change or advancement, or a personal goal to challenge yourself academically in something you are passionate about. By taking the time to explore your reasons for pursuing a master's degree, you can better identify the institutions and programs that will best help you find your place pursuing the music career of your dreams.
Check program requirements
You are wasting time applying to the ‘perfect’ course if you don’t match the entry requirements. The first thing you should do is check your eligibility. If you aren’t qualified, don’t lose heart. Many universities are flexible with their requirements. A good example - is if you are missing an academic qualification but have professional experience, most universities may accommodate this.
Shop around for the price that suits your budget
The cost of tuition is one of the main factors to consider when looking for a suitable master’s degree program. Because graduate schools can be costly, it pays to shop around and keep your mind and options open. While observing the prices, always investigate the main reasons for price disparities. Investigate if you can save on the cost of tuition, along with options such as scholarships or grants.
Check the credibility
Enrolling for your master’s is a big step. Ensure you analyze the school's reputation, quality, and credentials. Even if a school has a great web page and good sales tactics, it may lack functionality and proficiency in administrative processing and real-time assistance. Investigate whether they are recognized, if they are accredited for your discipline, their ranking compared to other universities offering the same program, and how accessible their programs are. Another thing to consider is how long they have been operating. Schools that have been around for longer automatically have better reputations. If you select the wrong institution or program, you may struggle to become a licensed professional.
Look into the opportunities the program offers
One of the benefits of pursuing a Master's degree in the music industry is the practical experience it can provide you with. Some programs offer opportunities for fieldwork, and internships, and provide extensive practical experience that resembles what your future position will be about. Gaining hands-on experience will make you stand out from the competition and will act in your favor when looking for your next role.
If you're interested in gaining practical experience, you should inquire about these special opportunities within the program. These experiences can be essential to your education, and by participating in them, you can develop the skills and knowledge needed to succeed professionally. When choosing a program, it's important to consider the availability of these opportunities and select a school that can offer you the practical experience necessary to prepare you for your future career.
Diversity, equity, and inclusion
Look for a school or university that holds space for everyone and seeks to embrace all human differences while enriching the lives of all students. Diversity and inclusion initiatives work hard to eliminate discrimination and exclusion. These exclusions are based on the following: race, creed, national origin, religion, color, ethnicity, age, gender and gender identity, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, disability, or military status.
Study the program’s approach
Investigate the goals, objectives, models, and principles of each program you are considering, gaining insight into whether the program is the right one for you. Many disciplines require graduate students to do extensive research and professional-level tasks, which assists them in developing ground-breaking theories and contributing to corresponding science.
Find out about housing and residential life
Finding an institution that meets your living needs is crucial, especially if you're planning to move abroad for your master's. Search for a university with housing and residential life dedicated to supporting the residents. Strive to be a part of a student community created for a student-centered learning environment that forms the foundation of academic achievement and personal development. By choosing a university with a student community that's dedicated to supporting its residents, you can ensure that you have a student-centered learning environment that promotes academic achievement and personal development. When selecting a program, be sure to consider your living needs and choose a university that can provide you with the support you need to thrive both academically and personally.
Meet your course supervisors
Researching faculty profiles and getting to know the individuals who will be teaching you is an essential aspect of selecting a Master's program. Attending admissions events and networking opportunities can help you meet and learn from the best in the field. It's important to engage with professors and program supervisors, ask questions, and discuss subjects that interest you. By doing so, you can gain valuable insight into the program structure and form relationships with those who can assist you on your academic and professional journey. Building a good rapport with faculty members who share your interests can be a bonus in your pursuit of higher education.
Examine your principles
Choosing a program where your personal principles and beliefs align with the university's values is essential for your academic and personal growth. By doing so, you will be able to fully engage with your coursework and community, creating a positive and fulfilling experience. Take the time to research and investigate the values and culture of the university before making a decision to ensure that it resonates with you. This will help you feel comfortable and supported in your academic journey, promoting your success and development.
Takeaway
Deciding to pursue your master’s degree is one of the most significant decisions in your academic and professional career. Selecting your institution and program is the second. If you are confused or don’t know how to decide on a university, reach out to your considered institutions for advice or further information.
Connect with us if you require any help planning, or for more information on our programs and degrees.
Discover why Berklee Valencia is a top choice for music students worldwide.