Course summary

The BA (Hons) Music (Popular and Production pathways) (Top-up) course is designed as a direct progression route for students who have successfully completed the Higher National Diploma in Music or Music Production, or a similar Level 5 programme. This course is aimed at equipping students with the skills and knowledge needed to become versatile music practitioners and producers in the music industry. The technology modules of the course are taught using industry-standard equipment, and all modules are delivered by experienced lecturers who have had long-standing careers in the music industry. Their expertise spans across various areas, such as live sound, ensemble performance, recording studios, record labels, DJing, audio post-production, and entrepreneurial industry skills. The top-up year of the course focuses on project-based learning, allowing students to choose options that align with their career interests. The core modules combine academic and practical skills, with a strong emphasis on professionalism and employability. In addition to the generic modules that explore the current music industry and its place in contemporary culture, students also can take specialist pathway modules that allow them to apply their individual skills to projects at Level 6. The two pathways within the course, Popular and Performance, offer specialist options such as performance, composition/song writing, research, recording studio/audio production, and composing sound for film/TV/games. A key feature of the programme is work-related learning, which encompasses not only employability skills, but also self-employment, enterprise, and entrepreneurship. Students are encouraged and supported in the development and application of their self-promotion skills through modules such as Professional Portfolio and Professional Practice, as well as the application of their musical skills and knowledge to their chosen area(s) of the profession through modules such as Specialist Project and Project Realisation/Dissertation. The BA (Hons) in Music (Popular and Production pathways) (Top-up) is validated by The Open University.