Music major in Malaysia

table of contents

About the specialty

Music is an artistic process that combines several elements such as form, harmony, melody, rhythm, and other emotional factors, and sound is considered the main means of expression. Music production is usually divided into three main categories: musical invention, musical creativity and live performance.

In the field of music, creative orientation and artistic talent are often considered more important than academic training. However, earning an academic degree can help you achieve stable career success and explore job opportunities that provide regular income rather than relying on freelance gigs.

Requirements to study in Malaysia

Entry requirements vary by university, but usually the criteria for a bachelor's degree are:

  • High School certificate
    To get into an English language program in Malaysia, it usually depends on your results in your high school exam. In general, universities require that you obtain a score of at least 50% of the total marks as a condition for admission to the programme. However, some universities may require you to complete a preparatory year if your grades do not meet the required standards.
  • english language
    At least 5.0  IELTS or equivalent TOEFL with a minimum score of 42.

Duration of study to study specialization in Malaysia:

Studying a bachelor's degree in the English language usually requires a minimum of 3 years.

The most important Arab and international universities for studying music specialization

International universities:

  1. University of Southern California (USC) – United States
  2. New York University (NYU) – United States
  3. University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) – United States
  4. University of California, Berkeley – United States
  5. University of California, Santa Barbara – United States

Arab universities:

  1. American University of Beirut (American University of Beirut) - Lebanon
  2. American University in Dubai (American University in Dubai) – United Arab Emirates
  3. Cairo University (Cairo University) – Egypt
  4. University of Jordan (University of Jordan) – Jordan
  5. Lebanese American University (Lebanese American University) - Lebanon

Universities and enrollment fees:

University NameClassAcademic durationAnnual tuition feesmore details
USM Universiti Sains MalaysiaBachelor of Music (Hons) / BACHELOR OF MUSIC (HONOURS)4 years$3,125more details
UPM Putra UniversityBachelor of Music with Honors4 years$3,378more details
University of Sarawak UniMAsBachelor of Music / Bachelor of Music3 years$2,300more details
UCSI UniversityBA (Hons) Classical Music / BA (Hons) Classical Musicy3 years$7,328more details
UCSI UniversityBA (Hons) Contemporary Music / BA (Hons) Contemporary Music3 years$7,328more details
UCSI UniversityDiploma in Music Performance2 years$6,257more details
UCSI UniversityDiploma in Music Teaching2 years$6,257more details
MSU UniversityBachelor of Music Technology (Hons) / Bachelor in Music Technology (Hons)3 years$5,185more details

More details about the specialization:

Music is one of those professions that requires more artistic skills than formal education, however, a degree can open up career opportunities that offer fixed salaries rather than self-employment.

Just as in the fields of acting, performing arts, and filmmaking, music is a career you can get into without needing a bachelor's degree. However, even if you don't have a four-year college degree, you still need to be a professional in your field.

In the world of music, these skills are often referred to as “your chops.” As a musician, your success will depend largely on your ability to present your pieces professionally, whether you work as an instrumentalist or a composer. If you are not able to give a great performance on your instrument, you will likely not succeed in getting a job in the music industry or in recording studios.

What you will study is divided into several areas, including:

1. Audio engineering and music production
This major is offered in undergraduate programs in both Arts and Sciences. If you are more interested in the artistic side of music, you may prefer to look into programs in fine arts. The degree in Fine Arts focuses primarily on the arts and is important for specialized music practice.

Audio or music production engineers work on the technical aspects of sound and music production, such as sound mixing and reproduction, and sound processing by electronic effects.

2. Music technology
Music technology, which includes audio engineering and music production, represents a comprehensive field of study. Coursework in this major provides the skills necessary to pursue a career in music, including work as an audio engineer, producer, audio system designer, or digital music technology expert.

3. Music education
This major is suitable for students who love music and want to start an educational career in this field. Music education includes the study of music theory and teaching as well as pedagogy and analysis of different learning styles.

4. Musicology
Musicology deals with the study of the cultural and historical developments of music. This major allows students to explore musical movements and specialize in understanding the weird and wonderful details about music, its composers, and their works.

Skills required for specialization:

There are many personal skills and traits that will enable you to excel in the music major and succeed in various career paths in it, including:

1. Academic analysis and understanding:
Studying music requires more than just playing or performing. Rather, the academic aspect includes reading and in-depth understanding of artistic concepts, such as studying specific pieces of music or analyzing historical developments. This academic aspect helps in shaping personal vision and deep understanding of music.

2. Time management:
Music students lead busy lives with rehearsals, musical performances and other events, so they must manage their time well. Staying organized and planning ahead for appointments and assignments helps them maintain a balance between academic and artistic work.

3. Passion for music:
Passion for music is considered an essential element for success in this field, as it helps to withstand the challenges and difficulties that musicians may face in their professional career.

4. Creativity:
Making music requires creativity and creative thinking, whether in choosing musical arrangements, sound effects, or directing musicians during recordings.

5. Communication skills:
The ability to communicate and interact with others effectively is important in the music industry, whether it be with coworkers, producers, or other musicians. These skills contribute to building good relationships and achieving success in this field.

Career paths after study

Many paths are waiting for you to achieve successes and excel in them, and these paths include:

  • Choir conductor
  • composer
  • Concert band coach
  • Instrument player
  • DJ
  • Music Director
  • Music producer
  • Music teacher
  • leading to
  • Recording engineer

Music is the path to creativity. However, obtaining an academic degree can help you achieve stable professional success and explore job opportunities. For more details, all you have to do is contact the Go Advice team via WhatsApp. from here

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