BA (Hons) Popular Music

This course provides the training and skills necessary for a wide range of careers within the music industry. You will develop understanding of the global commercial music sector, study musical output and techniques, and improve your creativity, professionalism and practical musicianship to a level needed for graduate employment. This full, three year Honours degree develops both the practical and transferable skills required to make you industry ready, and the contextual understanding and academic rigour inherent in high level study.

Awarded by Birmingham City University, this is a high level course with experienced staff and excellent resources. With 3 recording studios, 7 rehearsal rooms, 2 sequencing suites and a 600-capacity working venue onsite, you will enjoy the exciting, creative opportunities and supportive environment.

Your principal study can be in performance, music technology, live sound or composition. The course takes a holistic approach to musical study, with every student developing the broad range of skillsets required to become a successful music professional. Assessments are varied and innovative, and often modelled on real industry practice. You will learn through workshops, lectures, recording sessions, seminars and tutorials. You will study the theory, wider contexts and contemporary issues surrounding the global music industry and there will be regular visits from industry experts and artists.

You will also develop the musical and creative skills required by a performer, composer or producer, learn how to work well in teams and demonstrate leadership, organisation and decision-making skills. This programme will help you to develop a profile suitable for an artist looking for employment within the music industry, and to develop a clear conceptual understanding of connected issues and narratives, researching deeply into current musicology and practice.

All students receive weekly one-to-one instrumental sessions, delivered by our highly qualified visiting instrumental specialists on vocals, guitar, bass, drums, and keyboard

You will need to be aged 18 years or over on or before 31 August of the academic year the course commences.

You must have English Language GCSE at grade 4 or higher, plus 96 UCAS points at A-level or equivalent, preferably including music, which may be gained from the following qualifications:

• Scottish Certificate of Education/Scottish Qualification

• Authority Intermediate/Higher/Advanced Higher/ Irish Leaving Certificates

• International Baccalaureate

• BTEC National Diploma or Certificate

• Level 3 diploma in creative and media skills

• A recognised (Kitemarked) Access course

• ABRSM/Rockschool

• Other relevant international qualifications

• International applicants will be asked to demonstrate equivalents with the above qualification levels and an IELTs score of 6 or above

As part of the application, you will need to undergo an audition, qualification check and supply suitable references. Students with significant, relevant experience may be accepted onto the course subject to successful audition.

We would consider students who wish to enter into the final year of this programme, please contact us to discuss suitability.

20 Hours of Work permit weekly for international students.