University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna·Kirchenmusik
Master of Arts (MA)
This Master's program builds on the Bachelor's degree, offering advanced training in church music and worship leadership. It enhances practical skills in conducting and performance while deepening theological and historical understanding of church music. Graduates are equipped for higher responsibilities in church music settings or can pursue further academic research.
The curriculum includes advanced studies in liturgical music, priestly musical leadership, and musicology. Students are challenged to develop their own musical voice within church music.
The program is structured into core modules, elective subjects, and a final thesis. Practical training through performances and internships complements the academic framework.
Graduates are equipped with advanced competencies in music direction within ecclesiastical settings and are adept at innovative musical expression in worship contexts.
Periods can differ for EU/EEA and non-EU applicants. Always confirm on the official site before applying.
Winter 2024/25
No tuition
EU/EEA students, within the standard study period (plus the ~€25 ÖH student union fee per semester).
€727 / semester
Non-EU / third-country rate. Always confirm on the official site.
Third-country (non-EU/EEA) applicants generally need to have their prior qualifications legalised and translated for the admission application. Exact rules depend on the country that issued each document — always confirm with the university's admissions office.
Program-specific items — a CV, letter of motivation, an entrance exam (e.g. GMAT, GRE, SAT) or a portfolio — vary by degree. Check this program's requirements above and its official page.
The level of legalisation your certificates need depends on your country of origin:
Apostille
If your country is part of the Hague Apostille Convention, an Apostille from the competent authority of the issuing country is sufficient.
No legalisation
A small number of countries have a bilateral agreement with Austria and need no further legalisation.
Full diplomatic legalisation
For all other countries: the full chain — pre-certification by the issuing country's authorities (e.g. Ministry of Education and Ministry of Foreign Affairs), then legalisation by the competent Austrian representation (embassy/consulate).
Translations are usually done after legalisation. Check the required order with the issuing authorities and the Austrian representation.
After admission: proof of sufficient funds, health insurance and the student residence permit are part of the visa process — not university admission. We cover those in the guides.
mdw is regularly ranked among the world's top universities for music and performing arts, spanning orchestral instruments, composition, conducting, film, and drama (Max Reinhardt Seminar).
Visit university site€350–€650 / month (dorm room)
1040 WienSingle rooms, double roomsAkademikerhilfe
Mayerhofgasse 3, 1040 WienSingle & shared roomsAkademikerhilfe
1080 WienSingle rooms, double roomsHome4students