Course summary

This course is the ideal place to begin your higher-level studies in Music Technology. If you have qualifications in Music Technology and/or a passion for music production, this is the course for you. The Higher National Certificate is equivalent to the first year of a degree. Upon successful completion of the HNC you can continue onto the Higher National Diploma (HND). Work in one of our purpose-built recording studios or production suites on industry standard platforms Pro Tools and Logic Pro X. Develop a deep understanding and practical skills in music production, the music industry, acoustics and studio craft. The department has recently benefited from large scale investment featuring a large and small Mac suite, Mac computers in all 3 studios, numerous outboard effects and audio processing equipment including an Allen & Heath Hybrid mixing console. Studying here will mean much lower fees than those at university whilst also offering more support and 1:1 time than often available in university. During the course you will develop your recording and sound production skills as you explore the finer details of professional audio. You will gain experience of running recording sessions and creating music through technology. Alongside the production aspects of the course, you will complete coursework which explores the music industry, marketing and professional development. You will also complete two specialist practical - based units. This broad qualification is a great starting point for anyone wishing to pursue a career in the music industry as well as those that wish to progress to university. Many have a natural progression route to the third and final year of a degree course. The variety of units offered on the course will help you to develop your independent study as well as your team work and communication skills. On successful completion of this course you can progress onto the HND in Music Technology or progress into a career in the music industry. If you continue to complete the HND you can top this up at university by completing the 3rd year of a full honours degree. This vast industry has many exciting and varied roles including: working behind the scenes in film and television; radio production; theatre or live music. You could become a composer, songwriter, music producer, sound engineer, session musician or event organiser. You could work in the business at a record label or even run your own. You could work in A&R seeking out the next Adele, Ed Sheeran or Coldplay. Other record label roles include pluggers, marketing, sales and merchandise. Fight for the rights of musicians with a job at the Musicians Union or help support artists by working at a royalty collection agency. There are around 150,000 people working full time in the music industry in the UK with over a million working part time. This course will give you a solid understanding of many of these professions and give you the skills you need to succeed.