Course summary
Why study this course? This course will provide you with a stimulating and challenging programme of study that will be both engaging and memorable, delivering the essential subject knowledge that you will need to progress successfully into further study or the world of work. You will undertake a substantial core of learning in the Higher National Certificate in year one, and can build on this in the Higher National Diploma, in year two with optional units linked to your specialist area of study. Content is continually refreshed so that it is closely aligned with Professional Body, employer and higher education needs. We provide a varied approach to assessment that supports progression and we offer assessment relevant to the local economy, thereby accommodating and enhancing different learning styles. We deliver a qualification designed to meet the needs and expectations of students aspiring to work in an International Music environment. About the course This course has been designed to meet the growing demand for expertise in the areas of music and music technology and can lead to careers in the music industry. The course will be delivered in the purpose made building at the Bangor campus of the college and includes facilities such as state of the art recording studios and music rehearsal rooms as well as bespoke performance spaces and high-end computer labs. In addition to expert tuition from staff, key industry figures will offer advice both on campus and site specific, for example at a recording studio. You will undertake several projects during your studies to give experiences of delivering industry realistic situations and equip you with employable skills. Some of them are: concert production events, musical theatre, site specific experimental composition and original music album. How will it make me more employable? Pearson is committed to delivering learning that is rooted in the real world and to develop work-ready graduates with the professional skills and behaviours that employers need. The course will help learners develop a wide range of skills including, but not limited to: Technical Skills • Contextual Knowledge - you'll be able to apply • Music Ideas Generation and Development • Composition Design Knowledge and Skills • Professional Practice Employability Skills • Critical Thinking • Emotional Intelligence • Entrepreneurship • Leadership • Reflective Practice • Decision Making • Team Working Where will it take me? Employment- Previous students on this course have gained employment as live sound engineers and successful songwriters as well as establishing their own businesses. Related Degree Programmes- Successful completion of an HND in Music can gain access to year 2 in many university degree programmes across the UK. Entry requirements and year of entry are subject to the University. This course has partnerships with Queen’s University Belfast and Dundalk Institute of Technology whereby access to year two of programmes in music performance or music technology disciplines can be gained with appropriate grades in particular subjects.
Modules
Year 1 Modules (Level 4): Creative Software Techniques - This unit explores the creative possibilities within different DAWs. It assumes a basic level of knowledge but will build on this in areas such as MIDI sequencing and virtual instruments, Audio recording and editing, software synths and ‘mixing within the box’ using software mixers. Marketing and Promotion for Musicians - This unit will provide you with knowledge that will form a ‘toolkit’ of information about freelancing and marketing activities that you can use to further your career in the music industry. Media Composition - This unit introduces the skills needed to compose for media and the moving image within a framework of current studio and industry practice. Music Event Management - This unit explores the world of live music and common industry practices associated with it. The Music Industry - This unit will introduce you to the structure of the industry, focusing on revenue flows, employment opportunities, business activities and growth potential. Professional Development - You will explore the many potential avenues of employment that relate to your specialism, build an awareness of how to present yourself to the market place and embark on the journey of professional development. Applied Sound Principles - This unit explores the characteristics and underlying physics of sound waves, wave propagation and how sound is interpreted by human beings. Recording Technology - This unit will provide you with knowledge of the techniques used by sound engineers and music producers when using technology to record audio sources. Live Sound Techniques - The unit will provide knowledge of the practicalities involved in setting up and operating a sound reinforcement system for live music. Year 2 Modules (Level 5): Creative Portfolio - This unit provides you with an opportunity to create a unique portfolio of work relating to launching a product in your chosen field – such as a record label, a service, a cutting-edge piece of software Creative Research Project - This core unit will equip you with core research skills, alongside learning qualitative and quantitative research methods, you will have the opportunity to apply these methods in the completion of a mini dissertation. Advanced Composition using Technology - This unit explores the finer points of composition with technology, with a focus on greater control and manipulation of musical ideas throughout the creative process. Advanced Music Production - This unit explores the finer points of music production, with a focus on greater control and manipulation of material throughout the creative process. Advanced Sound Engineering - The aim of this unit is to develop the skill set in planning, setting up, problem solving and delivery capabilities of the sound engineer, to produce two high-quality productions in contrasting situations and environments. Mixing and Mastering - This unit will provide you with the knowledge and understanding of the techniques used by sound engineers and music producers to combine/mix multiple layers of audio together to make one final track. Musical Programming Techniques - This unit will provide you with an understanding of the skills practiced by music technologists when using programming techniques in the development of interactive musical performances. Courses are continually reviewed to take advantage of new teaching approaches and developments in research, industry and the professions. Please be aware that modules may change for your year of entry. The exact modules available and their order may vary depending on course updates, staff availability, timetabling and student demand. Please contact the course team for the most up to date module list.
Assessment method
Students are assessed using a range of different methods. These include examinations, coursework, Project Based Learning, presentations, practical, posters, leaflets, role-play, and case studies. This is dependent on the requirements of each unit of study. Oral, written and online feedback will be provided during your course to help improve and monitor performance.
Qualified teacher status (QTS)
To work as a teacher at a state school in England or Wales, you will need to achieve qualified teacher status (QTS). This is offered on this course for the following level:
- Course does not award QTS
How to apply
29Jan
This is the deadline for applications to be completed and sent for this course. If the university or college still has places available you can apply after this date, but your application is not guaranteed to be considered.
Application codes
- Course code:
- 0028
- Institution code:
- R01
- Campus name:
- SERC Bangor
- Campus code:
- B
Points of entry
The following entry points are available for this course:
- Year 1
International applicants
We offer a diverse range of world class courses and study options, and we’re delighted to offer our international students a warm welcome to study at SERC. For more information visit: https://www.serc.ac.uk/international/students
Entry requirements
Qualification requirements
UCAS Tariff - Not accepted
A level - C
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (first teaching from September 2016) - PPP
Access to HE Diploma
Scottish Higher
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma (first teaching from September 2016) - PP
Other qualifications will be considered on an individual basis on application. Alternatively, you can provide evidence of your ability to undertake the programme by meeting the requirements for the Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) process, either through Accredited Prior Certificated Learning (APCL) or Accredited Prior Experiential Learning (APEL). Further details on APL can be found in the HE admissions process section of our website and the HE Accreditation of Prior Learning SOP.
Please click the following link to find out more about qualification requirements for this course
Additional entry requirements
Audition
Successful outcome at audition and interview. Production pathway applicants will be asked to provide a recording portfolio and/or electronic music composition. The outcomes of which, along with the required grades, will determine the successful entry to this programme.
Other
All applicants must hold GCSE grade C/4 in English Language, or Level 2 Certificate in Essential Skills- Communication, or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification AND GCSE grade C/4 in Mathematics of Level 2 Certificate in Essential Skills- Application of Number, or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification AND passes in 4 different subjects (can include English Language and Mathematics and as above), with 1 at GCE Advanced (A) level (grades A-E), and 3 at GCSE level (grades A*-C*/9-4), or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification.
English language requirements
| Test | Grade | Additional details |
|---|---|---|
| IELTS (Academic) | 6 | Minimum of 5.5 in all skills |
| PTE Academic | 51 | Minimum of 46 in each part |
All applicants must hold a GCSE grade C/4 in English Language, or Level 2 Certificate in Essential Skills-Communication, or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification. Or equivalent UKVI-approved English Language Test For further information please contact our International Department at [email protected]
Click here to find out more about becoming an international student at SERC.
Student Outcomes
Operated by the Office for Students
There is no data available for this course. For further information visit the Discover Uni website.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
| EU | £2940 | Year 1 |
| Channel Islands | £2940 | Year 1 |
| Republic of Ireland | £2940 | Year 1 |
| England | £2940 | Year 1 |
| Northern Ireland | £2940 | Year 1 |
| Scotland | £2940 | Year 1 |
| Wales | £2940 | Year 1 |
| International | £7500 | Year 1 |
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
While all major equipment is provided, you will need to provide your own instrument. Site visits to music events may incur additional fees.
Sponsorship information
There are a number of sources of financial support available to students. These vary depending upon your course of study. Apply as soon as possible as closing dates vary between funds. The main types of student finance are tuition fee and maintenance loans, which have to be paid back, and grants and bursaries, which do not have to be paid back. For more information visit: https://www.serc.ac.uk/support/student-finance/full-time
Provider information
South Eastern Regional College
Castle Park Road
Bangor
County Down
BT20 4TD