Music and Psychology Northeastern University

Overview

The Music and Psychology programme at Northeastern University provides a rigorous academic framework that bridges the gap between creative expression and scientific enquiry. Students engage with a curriculum designed to explain human behaviour through the lens of musical experience, combining the resources of the College of Arts, Media and Design with the College of Science. This dual focus allows for a sophisticated understanding of how auditory stimuli influence the human mind and social structures.

By integrating these two distinct fields, the programme prepares students to analyse the biological and psychological foundations of music. The curriculum covers a broad spectrum of topics, from the mechanics of sound perception to the cultural impact of musical traditions.

Why Music and Psychology at Northeastern University?

Northeastern University offers a unique experiential learning environment where students can apply theoretical knowledge to real-world settings. The university is home to Green Line Records, a student-driven record label that provides hands-on experience in the music industry. Additionally, the institution's renowned co-op programme allows students to gain professional experience at prestigious organisations such as the Boston Symphony Orchestra and Rolling Stone.

The university's facilities, including the Media Studios and Gallery 360, support a vibrant creative community. Students benefit from a multidisciplinary faculty whose research spans innovative topics like the psychoacoustics of music and the impact of technology on communication. This collaborative atmosphere encourages students to develop a versatile skill set that includes critical reasoning, public speaking, and cross-cultural knowledge.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 33995 per semester
• National fee: USD 33995 per semester
• Local fee: USD 33995 per semester

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

• Music Theory
• Creative Music in Context
• Ethnomusicology
• Music Perception and Cognition
• Music and the Brain
• Psychoacoustics of Music
• Psycholinguistics
• Biological Basis of Behaviour
• Cognition

Careers with Music and Psychology

Graduates are prepared for a diverse range of professional paths that require an understanding of both human behaviour and the arts. Many pursue roles in arts administration, where they manage cultural organisations, or work as music critics and culture writers for major publications. The programme also provides a strong foundation for those interested in becoming ethnomusicologists or music theorists, focusing on the academic study of music's social and structural elements.

The analytical and research skills developed during the degree are highly transferable to various industries. Graduates may find opportunities in advocacy, editorial work, or professional musicianship. Furthermore, the portfolio of projects and research papers completed during the capstone class serves as a valuable asset for those applying to graduate school or seeking roles in research-intensive fields such as psychological analysis or musicology.