Course Overview

The UK music sector continues to grow. Not only does it add to the UK's culture scene, it is also a major contributor to the economy. According to a 2019 Music by Numbers report, the industry was worth £5.2 billion and employed nearly 200,000 people.

This two-year course provides the training and skills necessary for a wide range of careers within the music industry. You will develop understanding of the commercial music sector, study musical output and techniques, and improve your creativity, professionalism and practical musicianship to a level needed for music industry employment. This Foundation Degree is focused on developing the practical and transferable skills required to make you industry-ready.

Awarded by Birmingham City University, this is a high level course taught by experienced staff and with excellent resources. Three recording studios, seven rehearsal rooms, two sequencing suites and a 600-capacity working venue on site, you will enjoy the exciting, creative opportunities and a supportive environment.

Your principal study can be in performance, music technology, live sound or composition. Additionally the course takes a holistic approach to musical study, with every student developing a 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 modern day 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 reflect on individual progress as an artist, learning how to improve along the way.

General Eligibility

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 48 UCAS points at A-level or equivalent, preferably including music, which may be gained from the following qualifications:"

• 2 x GCE 'A' Level passes

• 1 x GCE 'A' Level pass plus AS level passes in appropriate subjects

• BTEC National Diploma or Extended Diploma

• BTEC National Certificate

• A Level 3 Diploma or equivalent such as NVQ, GNVQ, International Baccalaureate, Scottish Certificate of Education

• City and Guilds, Technical Baccalaureate

• A recognised (Kite marked) Access Course

• ABRSM/Rockschool

• Other relevant international qualifications

As part of the application you will also need to undergo an audition, qualification check and supply suitable references. Students with significant, relevant experience in place of formal qualifications may be accepted onto the course subject to a successful audition. International applicants will be asked to demonstrate equivalents of the above qualification levels and an IELTs score of 6 or above.

Part Time Work Details

20 Hours of Work permit weekly for international students.

Language Requirement

• An IELTS score of 6 or above.