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This course is for 2023/24 entry. Details for 2024/25 entry are also available.

Key information

This degree encourages you to work with music and sound in exciting new ways. You will develop an impressive portfolio of technical and creative skills to prepare you for music-related careers. These include music production, audio engineering, sound and interaction design, music composition for film and TV, and sound art.

Start date

September 2023

UCAS code

W3W7

Duration

  • 3 years full-time
  • 4 years with placement or study abroad year

Institution

City, University of London

Location

Northampton Square

Entry requirements

Below is a list of countries with information on each about which qualifications we accept.

  • UK

    A-level:
    BBB with Music or Music Technology preferred.
    Tariff:
    120 UCAS tariff points
    International Baccalaureate:
    30 points with 5 or better from three Higher Level subjects. A minimum of 5 in SL Maths and English will be required.
    BTEC:
    DDM
    GCSE:
    A minimum of grade 4 (C) in GCSE English Language and Mathematics in addition to other outlined requirements.

    *If you do not have formal music qualifications, your application will be considered on its individual merits and we may invite you to submit work samples.

    Contextual offers

    We apply a contextual admissions process for UK undergraduate applicants who have been in care, attend a low performing school, live in an area where few students go to university, or are the first generation of their family to enter Higher Education.

    Those who are eligible may receive a conditional offer with reduced entry requirements, typically up to two grades lower for A-levels and one grade (or eight tariff points) for BTEC or mixed qualifications.

    Mixed qualifications

    Typically the only scenario where we make conditional offers expressed as UCAS tariff points is when an applicant presents mixed qualifications, most typically a combination of A Levels and a BTEC qualification.

    In this instance, we may make a tariff point offer to present the applicant with more flexibility on equivalencies. In this case, please be aware that we may still ask for a specific score across certain qualifications and subjects. E.g. 'This offer is conditional on you achieving 128 tariff points. This must include A Level Mathematics at grade B.'

    Subject exclusions

    We do not accept General Studies and Critical Thinking. These subjects will not be included in any conditional offer we make.

    Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)

    We welcome applications from students who are completing relevant EPQ Projects. Whilst we recognise the value of these projects in preparing students for independent learning at university, the EPQ is unlikely to form part of any conditional offer we make.

    The EPQ will also not lower the specifics of any conditional offer we choose to make. We will consider the EPQ as part of the holistic assessment of the application and it could be used to form part of our final decision at Confirmation stage.

    AS levels

    We recognise that there will be differences of opportunity varying by school and college. As not all students will have the opportunity to sit AS Level exams, it is unlikely we will include AS Level grades in any offer we choose to make. Where students have completed an AS Level subject, we will consider this as part of the holistic assessment of the application and it could be used to form part of our final decision at Confirmation stage.

  • Zimbabwe

    The Zimbabwe GCE A Level is considered on a grade for grade basis with GCE A Levels.

    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Zambia

    The School Certificate / General Certificate of Education.

    Students must successfully complete a recognised foundation course.

    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Vietnam

    Tot Nghiep Pho Thong Trung Hoc (Upper Secondary School Graduation Certificate) students must successfully complete a recognised foundation course.

    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Uzbekistan

    Uzbekistan Certificate of Secondary Education.

    Students must successfully complete a recognised foundation course.

    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Ukraine

    Certificate of Complete General Secondary Education.

    Students must successfully complete a recognised foundation course.

    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Uganda

    Advanced Certificate in Education (UACE) is considered on a grade for grade basis with GCE A Levels.

    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • USA

    Advanced Placements.

    Please refer to the UK entry requirements for this course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the US equivalent required.

    The equivalents provided are intended as a guide only and individual applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis.

    The following A-level equivalences to Advanced Placements will typically be applied:

    • A-level AAA = Advanced Placements 555
    • A-level AAB = Advanced Placements 554
    • A-level ABB = Advanced Placements 544
    • A-level BBB = Advanced Placements 444
    • A-level BBC = Advanced Placements 443
    • A-level BCC = Advanced Placements 433.
    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • UAE

    Thanawaya (General Secondary Education Certificate Examination)- students must successfully complete a recognised foundation course.

    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Turkey

    Students must successfully complete a recognised foundation course.

    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Tunisia

    Secondary certificate.

    Students must successfully complete a recognised foundation course.

    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Thailand

    Mathayom Suksa 6 (Senior High School Leaving Certificate) students must successfully complete a recognised foundation course.

    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Tanzania

    Certificate of Secondary Education (CSE)

    Students must successfully complete a recognised foundation course.

    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Taiwan

    Senior High School Leaving Certificate students must successfully complete a recognised foundation course.

    Junior College Diploma

    The exact requirements from the above qualification differ between courses. Please contact Admissions to confirm the requirements for your course of interest.

    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Switzerland

    Federal Maturity Certificate/Maturitatzeugnis/Cantonal Maturity Certificate. The exact requirements from the above qualification differ between courses. Please contact Admissions to confirm the requirements for your course of interest.

    Visa requirements

    International Students from within the European Economic Area (EEA) may need to apply for a Student visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study if they do not have EU Settlement Status.

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months.

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Sweden

    Avgångsbetyg / Slutbetyg från Gymnasieskola. The exact requirements from the above qualification differ between courses. Please contact Admissions to confirm the requirements for your course of interest.

    Visa requirements

    International Students from within the European Economic Area (EEA) may need to apply for a Student visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study if they do not have EU Settlement Status.

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months.

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Sri Lanka

    Sri Lankan General Certificate of Education (Advanced Level).

    Considered equivalent to UK A-levels on a like for like basis.

    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Spain

    Título de Bachillerato (LOGSE)

    Please refer to the UK entry requirements for this course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Polish equivalent required.

    The equivalents provided are intended as a guide only and individual applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis.

    The following A-level equivalences to Título de Bachillerato (LOGSE) will typically be applied:

    • A-level AAA = 8
    • A-level AAB = 7.8
    • A-level ABB = 7.6
    • A-level BBB = 7.4
    • A-level BBC = 7.2
    • A-level BCC = 7.

    Please contact Admissions to confirm the requirements for your course of interest.

    Visa requirements

    International Students from within the European Economic Area (EEA) may need to apply for a Student visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study if they do not have EU Settlement Status.

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months.

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • South Korea

    Korean High School Diploma students must successfully complete a recognised foundation course.

    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • South Africa

    The National Senior Certificate will be accepted for direct entry to certain undergraduate courses normally

    The exact requirements from the above qualification differ between courses. Please contact Admissions to confirm the requirements for your course of interest.

    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Slovenia

    Maturitetno spričevalo (Matura Certificate). The exact requirements from the above qualification differ between courses. Please contact Admissions to confirm the requirements for your course of interest.

    Visa requirements

    International Students from within the European Economic Area (EEA) may need to apply for a Student visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study if they do not have EU Settlement Status.

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months.

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Slovakia

    Vysvedčenie o maturitnej skúške (Secondary School Leaving Certificate). The exact requirements from the above qualification differ between courses. Please contact Admissions to confirm the requirements for your course of interest.

    Visa requirements

    International Students from within the European Economic Area (EEA) may need to apply for a Student visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study if they do not have EU Settlement Status.

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months.

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Singapore

    Singapore-Cambridge GCE A-levels considered equivalent to UK A-levels on a like-for-like basis.

    Polytechnic Diploma students considered for year 1 or year 2 entry on a case-by-case basis depending on subjects taken and CGPA.

    Please contact Admissions to confirm your eligibility and the requirements for your course of interest.

    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Serbia

    Secondary School Leaving Diploma/Matura. The exact requirements from the above qualification differ between courses. Please contact Admissions to confirm the requirements for your course of interest.

    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Saudi Arabia

    Thanawaya (General Secondary Education Certificate) - students must successfully complete a recognised foundation course.

    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Rwanda

    The Rwanda Advanced Certificate of Education (A-level)

    Students must successfully complete a recognised foundation course.

    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Russia

    The Attestat o Srednam Obrazov

    Students must successfully complete a recognised foundation course.

    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Romania

    Diplomă de Bacalaureat. The exact requirements from the above qualification differ between courses. Please contact Admissions to confirm the requirements for your course of interest.

    Visa requirements

    International Students from within the European Economic Area (EEA) may need to apply for a Student visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study if they do not have EU Settlement Status.

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months.

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Qatar

    Thanawaya (General Secondary Education Certificate) - students must successfully complete a recognised foundation course.

    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Portugal

    Diploma/Certificado Nível Secundário de Educação. The exact requirements from the above qualification differ between courses. Please contact Admissions to confirm the rquirements for your course of interest.

    Visa requirements

    International Students from within the European Economic Area (EEA) may need to apply for a Student visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study if they do not have EU Settlement Status.

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months.

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Poland

    Swiadectwo Dojrzałości / Matura.

    Please refer to the UK entry requirements for this course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Polish equivalent required.

    The equivalents provided are intended as a guide only and individual applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis.

    The following A-level equivalences to Swiadectwo Dojrzałości / Matura will typically be applied:

    • A-level AAA = Swiadectwo Dojrzałości / Matura 80% average from 3 extended subjects
    • A-level AAB = Swiadectwo Dojrzałości / Matura 78% average from 3 extended subjects
    • A-level ABB = Swiadectwo Dojrzałości / Matura 76% average from 3 extended subjects
    • A-level BBB = Swiadectwo Dojrzałości / Matura 74% average from 3 extended subjects
    • A-level BBC = Swiadectwo Dojrzałości / Matura 72% average from 3 extended subjects
    • A-level BCC = Swiadectwo Dojrzałości / Matura 70% average from 3 extended subjects.
    Visa requirements

    International Students from within the European Economic Area (EEA) may need to apply for a Student visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study if they do not have EU Settlement Status.

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months.

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Pakistan

    Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC).

    Students must successfully complete a recognised foundation course.

    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Oman

    Thanawaya (General Education Diploma) - students must successfully complete a recognised foundation course.

    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Norway

    Vitnemål fra den Videregående Skole (VVO). The exact requirements MAY differ between courses.

    Please refer to the UK entry requirements for this course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Norwegian equivalent required.

    The equivalents provided are intended as a guide only and individual applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis.

    The following A-level equivalences to Vitnemal will typically be applied:

    • A-level AAA = 5
    • A-level AAB = 4.5
    • A-level ABB = 4.5
    • A-level BBB = 4
    • A-level BBC = 4
    • A-level BCC = 3.5

    Please contact Admissions to confirm the requirements for your course of interest.

    Visa requirements

    International Students from within the European Economic Area (EEA) may need to apply for a Student visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study if they do not have EU Settlement Status.

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months.

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Nigeria

    Senior School Certificate/West African Senior School Certificate

    Students must successfully complete a recognised foundation course.

    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Netherlands

    Voorbereidend Wetenschappelijk Onderwijs (VWO). The exact requirements from the above qualification differ between courses. Please contact Admissions to confirm the requirements for your course of interest.

    Visa requirements

    International Students from within the European Economic Area (EEA) may need to apply for a Student visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study if they do not have EU Settlement Status.

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months.

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Morocco

    The Moroccan Diplôme du Baccalauréat/Attestation du Baccalauréat

    Students must successfully complete a recognised foundation course.

    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Mexico

    Titulo Académico de Bachiller / Diploma de Bachiller / Bachillerato General - students must successfully complete a recognised foundation course.

    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Mauritius

    The CIE A Level sat in Mauritius is considered on a grade for grade basis with GCE A Levels sat in the UK.

    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Malta

    Advanced Matriculation and Matriculation Certificate Examination are comparable to A Levels with the same grading system as UK A levels.

    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Malaysia

    STPM / UEC.

    Please refer to the UK entry requirements for this course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Malaysian equivalent required.

    The equivalents provided are intended as a guide only and individual applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis.

    The following A-level equivalences to STPM will typically be applied:

    • A-level AAA = STPM AAA
    • A-level AAB = STPM AAB
    • A-level ABB = STPM ABB
    • A-level BBB = STPM BBB
    • A-level BBC = STPM BBC
    • A-level BCC = STPM BCC.

    The following A-level equivalences to UEC will typically be applied:

    • A-level AAA = UEC AAAAAA
    • A-level AAB = UEC AAAABB
    • A-level ABB = UEC AABBBB
    • A-level BBB = UEC BBBBBB
    • A-level BBC = UEC BBBBCC
    • A-level BCC = UEC BBCCCC.
    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Luxembourg

    Diplôme de Fin d'Etudes Secondaires. The exact requirements from the above qualification differ between courses. Please contact Admissions to confirm the requirements for your course of interest.

    Visa requirements

    International Students from within the European Economic Area (EEA) may need to apply for a Student visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study if they do not have EU Settlement Status.

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months.

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Lithuania

    Brandos Atestatas (Certificate of Maturity). The exact requirements from the above qualification differ between courses. Please contact Admissions to confirm the requirements for your course of interest.

    Visa requirements

    International Students from within the European Economic Area (EEA) may need to apply for a Student visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study if they do not have EU Settlement Status.

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months.

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Lebanon

    Lebanese Baccalaureate - students must successfully complete a recognised foundation course.

    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Latvia

    Atestats par visparejo videjo izglitibu (Certificate of General Secondary Education). The exact requirements from the above qualification differ between courses.

    Please contact Admissions to confirm the requirements for your course of interest.

    Visa requirements

    International Students from within the European Economic Area (EEA) may need to apply for a Student visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study if they do not have EU Settlement Status.

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months.

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Kuwait

    Thanawaya (General Secondary Education Certificate) - students must successfully complete a recognised foundation course.

    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Kenya

    Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE)

    Students must successfully complete a recognised foundation course.

    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Kazakhstan

    Certificate of Completed Secondary Education.

    Students must successfully complete a recognised foundation course.

    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Jordan

    Thanawaya (Certificate of General Secondary Education) - students must successfully complete a recognised foundation course.

    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Japan

    Kotogakko Sotsugyo Shomeisho (Upper Secondary School Leaving Certificate) students must successfully complete a recognised foundation course.

    Senmonshi (vocational degree), Jun-Gakushi (associate degree) and Tanki Daigaku Shuryo Shoshois (Junior College Certificate of Graduation) considered for direct entry on a case-by-case basis. Please contact Admissions to confirm the requirements for your course of interest.

    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Italy

    Diploma di Esame di Stato.

    Please refer to the UK entry requirements for this course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Italian equivalent required.

    The equivalents provided are intended as a guide only and individual applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis.

    The following A-level equivalences to Diploma di Esame di Stato will typically be applied:

    • A-level AAA = Diploma di Esame di Stato 85%
    • A-level AAB = Diploma di Esame di Stato 84%
    • A-level ABB = Diploma di Esame di Stato 80%
    • A-level BBB = Diploma di Esame di Stato 78%
    • A-level BBC = Diploma di Esame di Stato 76%
    • A-level BCC = Diploma di Esame di Stato 74%.
    Visa requirements

    International Students from within the European Economic Area (EEA) may need to apply for a Student visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study if they do not have EU Settlement Status.

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months.

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Ireland

    Irish Leaving Certificate. The exact requirements from the above qualification differ between courses. Please contact Admissions to confirm the requirements for your course of interest.

    Visa requirements

    International Students from within the European Economic Area (EEA) may need to apply for a Student visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study if they do not have EU Settlement Status.

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months.

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Indonesia

    Surat Tanda Tamat Belajar Sekolah Menengah Umum Tingkat Atas (Senior Secondary School Certificate of Completion) students must successfully complete a recognised foundation course.

    Diploma III & IV students considered for year 1 entry on a case-by-case basis. Please contact Admissions to confirm the requirements for your course of interest.

    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • India

    HSC XII

    Please refer to the UK entry requirements for this course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Indian equivalent required.

    The equivalents provided are intended as a guide only and individual applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis.

    The following A-level equivalences to HSC XII will typically be applied:

    • A-level AAA = CBSE & ICSE Exam Board HSC XII 80%
    • A-level AAB = CBSE & ICSE Exam Board HSC XII 78%
    • A-level ABB = CBSE & ICSE Exam Board HSC XII 76%
    • A-level BBB = CBSE & ICSE Exam Board HSC XII 74%
    • A-level BBC = CBSE & ICSE Exam Board HSC XII 72%
    • A-level BCC = CBSE & ICSE Exam Board HSC XII 70%
    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Iceland

    Stúdentspróf. The exact requirements from the above qualification differ between courses. Please contact Admissions to confirm the requirements for your course of interest.

    Visa requirements

    International Students from within the European Economic Area (EEA) may need to apply for a Student visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study if they do not have EU Settlement Status.

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months.

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Hungary

    Érettségi. The exact requirements from the above qualification differ between courses. Please contact Admissions to confirm the requirements for your course of interest.

    Visa requirements

    International Students from within the European Economic Area (EEA) may need to apply for a Student visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study if they do not have EU Settlement Status.

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months.

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Hong Kong

    Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education.

    Please refer to the UK entry requirements for this course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Hong Kong equivalent required.

    The equivalents provided are intended as a guide only and individual applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis.

    The following A-level equivalences to HKDSE will typically be applied:

    • A-level AAA = HKSDE 555 (excluding Liberal Studies and Chinese)
    • A-level AAB = HKSDE 555 (excluding Liberal Studies and Chinese)
    • A-level ABB = HKSDE 554 (excluding Liberal Studies and Chinese)
    • A-level BBB = HKSDE 554 (excluding Liberal Studies and Chinese)
    • A-level BBC = HKSDE 544 (excluding Liberal Studies and Chinese)
    • A-level BCC = HKSDE 544 (excluding Liberal Studies and Chinese).
    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Greece

    Greek Apolytirion. Please note that exact requirements may differ between courses.

    Please refer to the UK entry requirements for this course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Greek equivalent required.

    The equivalents provided are intended as a guide only and individual applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis.

    The following A-level equivalences to Greek Apolytirion will typically be applied:

    • A-level AAA = 18/20 plus; 18/20 in two PanHellenics
    • A-level AAB = 18/20 plus; 17/20 in two PanHellenics

    Please contact Admissions to confirm the requirements for your course of interest.

    Visa requirements

    International Students from within the European Economic Area (EEA) may need to apply for a Student visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study if they do not have EU Settlement Status.

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months.

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Ghana

    Senior School Certificate/West African Senior School Certificate

    Students must successfully complete a recognised foundation course.

    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Germany

    German Abitur.

    Please refer to the UK entry requirements for this course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the German equivalent required.

    The equivalents provided are intended as a guide only and individual applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis.

    The following A-level equivalences to Abitur will typically be applied:

    • A-level AAA = Abitur 1.8
    • A-level AAB = Abitur 2.0
    • A-level ABB = Abitur 2.2
    • A-level BBB = Abitur 2.4
    • A-level BBC = Abitur 2.6
    • A-level BCC = Abitur 2.8.
    Visa requirements

    International Students from within the European Economic Area (EEA) may need to apply for a Student visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study if they do not have EU Settlement Status.

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months.

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • France

    French Baccalaureate.

    Please refer to the UK entry requirements for this course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the French equivalent required.

    The equivalents provided are intended as a guide only and individual applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis.

    The following A-level equivalences to French Baccalaureate will typically be applied:

    • A-level AAA = French Baccalaureate 15/20
    • A-level AAB = French Baccalaureate 14/20
    • A-level ABB = French Baccalaureate 13/20
    • A-level BBB = French Baccalaureate 12.5/20
    • A-level BBC = French Baccalaureate 12/20
    • A-level BCC = French Baccalaureate 11.5/20.
    Visa requirements

    International Students from within the European Economic Area (EEA) may need to apply for a Student visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study if they do not have EU Settlement Status.

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months.

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Estonia

    Gümnaasiumi loputunnistus with the Riigieksamitunnistus (Secondary School Leaving Certificate with the State Examination Certificate).

    The exact requirements from the above qualification differ between courses. Please contact Admissions to confirm the requirements for your course of interest.

    Visa requirements

    International Students from within the European Economic Area (EEA) may need to apply for a Student visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study if they do not have EU Settlement Status.

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months.

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Egypt

    Certificate of Nile International Secondary Education

    Students must successfully complete a recognised foundation course.

    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Denmark

    Hojere Forberedelseseksamen (HF). The exact requirements from the above qualification differ between courses. Please contact Admissions to confirm the requirements for your course of interest.

    Visa requirements

    International Students from within the European Economic Area (EEA) may need to apply for a Student visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study if they do not have EU Settlement Status.

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months.

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Czech Republic

    Vysvědčení o maturitní zkoušce / Maturita (Secondary School Leaving Certificate). The exact requirements from the above qualification differ between courses.

    Please contact Admissions to confirm the requirements for your course of interest.

    Visa requirements

    International Students from within the European Economic Area (EEA) may need to apply for a Student visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study if they do not have EU Settlement Status.

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months.

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Cyprus

    Apolytirion plus Pancyprian examinations. The exact requirements from the above qualification differ between courses. Please contact Admissions to confirm the requirements for your course of interest.

    Visa requirements

    International Students from within the European Economic Area (EEA) may need to apply for a Student visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study if they do not have EU Settlement Status.

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months.

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Croatia

    Maturalna svjedodzba (Matura Certificate). The exact requirements from the above qualification differ between courses. Please contact Admissions to confirm the requirements for your course of interest.

    Visa requirements

    International Students from within the European Economic Area (EEA) may need to apply for a Student visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study if they do not have EU Settlement Status.

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months.

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Columbia

    Bachiller Académico/Technico

    Students must successfully complete a recognised foundation course.

    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • China

    Senior High School Certificate students must successfully complete a recognised foundation course.

    Gaokao students with exceptional grades considered for direct entry on a case-by-case basis. Please contact Admissions to confirm the requirements for your course of interest.

    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Canada

    Grade 12 high school graduation certificate / diploma. Please note that exact requirements may differ between provinces.

    Please refer to the UK entry requirements for this course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Canadian equivalent required.

    The equivalents provided are intended as a guide only and individual applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis.

    The following A-level equivalences to Canadian year 12 Diplomas will typically be applied:

    • A-level AAA = 85% average across 5 best Grade 12 subjects
    • A-level AAB = 80% average across 5 best Grade 12 subjects
    • A-level ABB = 77% average across 5 best Grade 12 subjects
    • A-level BBB = 75% average across 5 best Grade 12 subjects
    • A-level BBC = 72% average across 5 best Grade 12 subjects
    • A-level BCC = 70% average across 5 best Grade 12 subjects.
    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Cameroon

    The Cameroonian GGCE is normally considered like for like with UK A levels.

    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Bulgaria

    Diploma Za Sredno Obrazovanie.

    Please refer to the UK entry requirements for this course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Bulgarian equivalent required.

    The equivalents provided are intended as a guide only and individual applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis.

    The following A-level equivalences to Diploma Za Sredno Obrazovanie will typically be applied:

    • A-level ABB = Diploma Za Sredno Obrazovanie 5.3 average and 5 in state exams
    • A-level BBB = Diploma Za Sredno Obrazovanie 5.0 average and 4 in state exams
    • A-level BBC = Diploma Za Sredno Obrazovanie 4.5 average and 4 in state exams
    • A-level BCC = Diploma Za Sredno Obrazovanie 4.0 average and 4 in state exams
    • A-level CCC = Diploma Za Sredno Obrazovanie 4.0 average and 4 in state exams.
    Visa requirements

    International Students from within the European Economic Area (EEA) may need to apply for a Student visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study if they do not have EU Settlement Status.

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months.

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Brunei

    Brunei-Cambridge GCE A-levels considered equivalent to UK A-levels on a like for like basis.

    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Brazil

    • Certificado de Conclusao de Ensino Médio
    • Certificado de Conclusao de Segundo Grau

    Students must successfully complete a recognised foundation course.

    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Botswana

    Botswana National qualifications

    Students must successfully complete a recognised foundation course.

    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Belgium

    Diploma van Secundair Onderwijs/Certificat d'Enseignement Secondaire Supérieur.

    The exact requirements from the above qualification differ between courses. Please contact Admissions to confirm the requirements for your course of interest.

    Visa requirements

    International Students from within the European Economic Area (EEA) may need to apply for a Student visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study if they do not have EU Settlement Status.

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months.

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Bangladesh

    Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC).

    Students must successfully complete a recognised foundation course.

    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Bahrain

    Thanawaya (General Secondary Education Certificate) - students must successfully complete a recognised foundation course.

    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Azerbaijan

    General Secondary Education Certificate.

    Students must successfully complete a recognised foundation course.

    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Austria

    Reifeprufungszeugnis/Maturazeugnis. The exact requirements from the above qualification differ between courses. Please contact Admissions to confirm the requirements for your course of interest.

    Visa requirements

    International Students from within the European Economic Area (EEA) may need to apply for a Student visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study if they do not have EU Settlement Status.

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months.

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Argentina

    Titulo de Bachiller.

    Students must successfully complete a recognised foundation course.

    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Algeria

    The Baccalaureat de l'Enseignement Secondaire

    Students must successfully complete a recognised foundation course.

    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Albania

    Diplome e Matures Shteterore (Diploma of State Matura). Students must successfully complete a recognised foundation course. Alternatively, IB, A Levels, or other European system will be considered.

    Visa requirements

    International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

    • Students on courses of more than six months
    • Students on courses of less than six months

    For more information see our main Visa page.

  • Other

    If you are unable to find your country equivalents in the above list, City will consider other international qualifications on a case by case basis.

    Please contact the Admissions team for more details.

English language requirements

If your first language is not English, we will require evidence of English language proficiency. Minimum requirements are:

IELTS:
6.5 overall with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.

PTE Academic: 59 overall with a minimum of 59 in each component.

English language programmes

Don’t meet the English language requirements? INTO City, University of London offers English language programmes to help prepare you for study at university. These intensive and flexible courses are designed to improve your English ability for entry to degree courses.

Apply now

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Prospectus

Why choose this course?

  • Ranked

    2nd

    in London for Music
    (Complete University Guide 2023)

  • Accreditation

    from Joint Audio Media Education Support (JAMES)

  •  

    Music pianist

    Developed to create the music and audio professionals of the future

Music, Sound and Technology BSc (Hons) degree Course overview

Developed to respond to the growing demand for flexible music and audio professionals, the course is focused on equipping you with an exceptional range of intellectual, technical and creative skills.

This degree has a unique focus to help you understand the relationships between music, sound and other forms of digital media. For example, film, games, web-based applications, and novel modes of performance.

  • Learn in a highly energised department, with internationally recognised staff who share your devotion to music
  • Train in facilities that include advanced recording and composition studios, and performance and practice spaces
  • Study music, recording, studio production techniques, composition, interactive music, acoustics and psychoacoustics, audio arts, sound synthesis, and digital signal processing
  • Participate in music-making activities, including student ensembles, regular concerts and summer music festival
  • Learn in a stimulating research-led environment with world-leading studios and recording facilities
  • Develop up-to-date technical skills in digital and audio technologies
  • Follow in the footsteps of students who have undertaken a placement year with Les Miserables, London Philharmonic, and other organisations.

Accreditation

This innovative and versatile degree is accredited by Joint Audio Media Education Support (JAMES).

Structure

Course content

Over the three years of this BSc Music, Sound and Technology degree, you’ll study music theory, cutting-edge concepts, and develop your professional practice.

Year 1

Gain a comprehensive grounding in sound recording, acoustics, digital audio, media and critical theory, contextual studies and critical listening.

  • Introduction to Musicianship (15 credits)

    In this module you will be introduced to practical and theoretical musical skills through your own work as well as group activities.. You will learn the basics of notation and begin to develop a way of associating this notation with specific sounds.

  • Practical Musicianship 1 (15 credits)

    Develop practical and theoretical musical skills through your own work as well as group activities.

  • Critical Listening (15 credits)

    Gain a theoretical and practical understanding of the sense of listening in both musical and non-musical contexts.

  • Sound Design (30 credits)

    Introduction to the principles of digital audio and computer programming in order to understand the nature of digital sound. Develop a robust understanding of the theory and creative application.

  • Sound Recording and Studio Techniques 1 (30 credits)

    This module will introduce you to the techniques and technologies of the contemporary recording studio in order to develop such skills.

  • Music, Sound and Technology (30 credits)

    Four units of study; explore and analyse a wide range of technologically mediated music and sound practices, with a view to understanding the context in which contemporary music and sound production is situated

Year 2

Develop your advanced skills in recording and interactive music systems, creating innovative new work. Choose elective modules across sound studies, critical and media theory, music in popular culture, western music, applied music studies and composition.

  • Ensemble Performance (15 credits)

  • Practical Musicianship 2 (15 credits)

    Develop practical and theoretical musical skills through your own work as well as group activities.

  • Sound Recording and Studio Techniques 2 (30 credits)

    Integration of technical, theoretical, creative and managerial skills in order to develop your abilities to tackle complex studio sessions.

  • Interactivity for Music and Sound (30 credits)

    Build on the fundamental skills in digital audio and computer programming gained in the first year Sound Design module.

  • Work Placement (15 credits)

    Develop your employability skills whilst developing valuable ‘hands-on experience’ in the sector of your choice.

  • Composition (Studio) (15 credits)

    Enhance skills in the use of studio equipment for sound recording, digital signal processing and mixing, and then apply these techniques in the creation of imaginative new works.

  • Composition (Instrumental) (15 credits)

    Completion of three works for varying instrumental and vocal resources. Engage your creative imagination with technical discipline.

  • Composition (Moving Images) (15 credits)

    Using both live and electronic resources, create soundtracks for three audio-visual projects over the course of two terms.

  • Performance 2A (15 credits)

    Deepen your understanding and skills under the guidance of a professional, specialist instrumental or vocal tutor. Includes an end-of-year recital and a short portfolio.

  • Global Perspectives: London’s Musical Communities (15 credits)

    Explore the impact of globalisation on music, focusing primarily on London’s diverse musical communities, through a range of musical traditions, styles and genres from around the world.

  • Fifty Shades of Red. Russia in the Twentieth Century (15 credits)

    Introduction to political, social, and cultural developments in modern Russian history. Considerations to how the Soviet experiment influenced the history of Russia and the world, and how we should relate to it today.

  • Modern Germany (15 credits)

    This module will introduce you to the major events and principal problems in German history in the nineteenth and the twentieth centuries.

  • The American Century (15 credits)

    This course charts the international rise of the United States and critically assesses the perception of the twentieth century as the “American century”.

  • Digital Storytelling: Research, Writing, Design (15 credits)

    This module introduces you to the digital turn that has revolutionised the Humanities and Social Sciences in recent years. You will learn about the history of online media and become familiar with the current digital landscape.

  • Creative Writing Workshop (15 credits)

    Explore the practice of creative writing; develop your own writing portfolio through understanding of the practices of the creative writer, and be encouraged to explore the key elements of imaginative and dramatic writing.

  • Global Popular Musics (15 credits)

    Introduction to a wide range of popular music styles and genres from around the world and explores current issues around popular music in a global context.

  • Sound, Music and the Moving Image (15 credits)

    Explore the use of music and sound in combination with moving images from a variety of historical, creative, theoretical and cultural perspectives.

  • Electronic Dance Music (15 credits)

    Investigate a number of dance music scenes that have emerged from the last four decades and up to the present day

  • Rhythm (15 credits)

    Explore the phenomenon of rhythm from theoretical, historical, and analytical perspectives.

  • Sound, Art and Technoculture (15 credits)

    Examine the evolution of sound in the arts, and of sound as embedded in technoculture and within collaborative and transdisciplinary work.

  • Orchestral and Instrumental Studies (15 credits)

    Explore the development of orchestration in Western Art music, from the mid-eighteenth century to the present day.

  • Performance Practice (15 credits)

    This elective module deals with the study of historical performance practice of Western Music and its potential applications for performance today.

  • Jazz (15 credits)

    This module will take you through the critical developments in the history of jazz, considering the music’s attributes and styles within cultural, geographic, and social contexts. This will be complemented by a practical element comprising performance, musicianship, transcription and composition.

  • Music in East Asia

    This module explores the music of East Asia, primarily in China, Korea and Japan. It will also discuss the relationship between music and other aspects of East Asian society, including culture, politics, religion, and other artforms and media such as theatre, dance, and cinema.

  • Nineteenth-Century Opera (15 credits)

    Explore the breadth and diversity of nineteenth-century opera from the 1820s until the end of the century, taking in German, Italian, French and Russian developments.

  • Video Game Music (15 credits)

    In this module you will investigate video game music and the emergent field that studies it: ludomusicology. It will combine historical, technical and analytical approaches to explore a range of video game music and cultures across many genres, platforms and eras.

  • The Classical Style: Music, Aesthetics, Society (15 credits)

  • Micro-Placement (15 credits)

    The module seeks to enhance career exploration and will provide you with professional level experience in the form of a self-contained project with one of City’s external employer partners. Completing the Micro-Placement module at level 5 will preclude you having the option to take the Micro-Placement elective module at level 6.

Year 3

Discover the role of sound and music in video and web applications. Complete the major project that forms a focal point for the final year of your degree, devising and realising a large-scale individual project.

  • Major Project: Music, Sound and Technology (30 credits)

    This is an opportunity to advance your skills and understanding through the completion of a portfolio of creative and/or technical work accompanied by a critical commentary.

  • Major Project: Dissertation (30 credits)

    Nominate a topic that can be researched in greater depth under the supervision of a member of academic staff, leading to the submission of a dissertation of 7,500–8,000 words.

  • Major Project: Composition (30 credits)

    Advance your compositional skills and understanding through the completion of a portfolio of creative work, supported by specialist one-to-one supervision.

  • Sound and Image Interaction (30 credits)

    Develop approaches to the interaction of sound, moving images, and physical gesture. The aim is to create holistic audiovisual works.

  • Mastering and Advanced Production (15 credits)

    You will develop an applied understanding of professional mastering in a wide variety of scenarios, and broaden and enhance your production techniques with cutting-edge, experimental and idiosyncratic approaches.

  • Ensemble Performance (15 credits)

    Enhance knowledge and understanding of ensemble repertoire and to develop professional and practical musical skills in ensemble performance, and in collaborative musical practice with others.

  • Composition (Studio) (15 credits)

    Students will enhance their skills in the use of studio equipment for sound recording, digital signal processing and mixing, and then apply these techniques in the creation of imaginative new works

  • Composition (Instrumental) (15 credits)

    Through the completion of three works for varying instrumental and vocal resources, you will engage your creative imagination with the technical discipline needed to convey ideas to performers via musical notation.

  • Composition (Moving Images) (15 credits)

    Create soundtracks for three audio-visual projects over the course of two terms using live and electronic resources.

  • Global Perspectives: London’s Musical Communities (15 credits)

    Explore the impact of globalisation on music, focusing primarily on London’s diverse musical communities, through a range of musical traditions, styles and genres from around the world.

  • Performance 3A (15 credits)

    Enables student performers to expand and deepen their understanding and skills under the guidance of a professional, specialist instrumental or vocal tutor.

  • Visual Storytelling (15 credits)

    This module gives you the opportunity to analyse cultural products that tell stories using visual mediums. You will develop an understanding of the different techniques that creators have used to communicate their stories using visuals, and you will also develop the ability to analyse narratives that make use of different visual modes.

  • Disruptive Divas, Riot Grrrls and Bad Sistas: A History of Women in Popular Music (15 credits)

    Introduction to concepts of gender history and politics as well as to the historical study of popular culture. Examine the changing roles of men and women in the popular music industry.

  • Sound, Art and Technoculture (15 credits)

    Examine the evolution of sound in the arts, and of sound as embedded in technoculture and within collaborative and transdisciplinary work.

  • Global Popular Musics (15 credits)

    Introduction to a wide range of popular music styles and genres from around the world and explores current issues around popular music in a global context.

  • Sound, Music and the Moving Image (15 credits)

    Explore the use of music and sound in combination with moving images from a variety of historical, creative, theoretical and cultural perspectives.

  • Electronic Dance Music (15 credits)

    Investigate a number of dance music scenes that have emerged from the last four decades and up to the present day.

  • Rhythm (15 credits)

    Explore the phenomenon of rhythm from theoretical, historical, and analytical perspectives.

  • Video Game Music (15 credits)

    In this module you will investigate video game music and the emergent field that studies it: ludomusicology. It will combine historical, technical and analytical approaches to explore a range of video game music and cultures across many genres, platforms and eras.

  • Romantic Aesthetics (15 credits)

    This interdisciplinary module investigates the aesthetics and ideologies associated with the Romanticism movement from the late-eighteenth to mid-nineteenth centuries in Europe. You will explore manifestations of Romanticism in music, visual art and literature from the English-speaking world, France, Germany, Italy and Russia.

  • Nineteenth-Century Opera (15 credits)

    Explore the breadth and diversity of nineteenth-century opera from the 1820s until the end of the century, taking in German, Italian, French and Russian developments.

  • The Classical Style: Music, Aesthetics, Society (15 credits)

    Examine the development, form and meaning of what Rosen called 'The Classical Style', namely the tradition of Western and Central European art ('classical') music of the later eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries.

  • Jazz (15 credits)

    This module will take you through the critical developments in the history of jazz, considering the music’s attributes and styles within cultural, geographic, and social contexts. This will be complemented by a practical element comprising performance, musicianship, transcription and composition.

  • Music in East Asia

    This module explores the music of East Asia, primarily in China, Korea and Japan. It will also discuss the relationship between music and other aspects of East Asian society, including culture, politics, religion, and other artforms and media such as theatre, dance, and cinema.

  • Micro-Placement (15 credits)

    The module seeks to enhance career exploration and will provide you with professional level experience in the form of a self-contained project with one of City’s external employer partners. Completing the Micro-Placement module at level 5 will preclude you having the option to take the Micro-Placement elective module at level 6.

  • Industry Projects (15 credits)

    Using knowledge and skills gained through your degree, you will work in small multi-disciplinary groups on real-life professional level practical projects for employers, choosing between 5 sector streams, such as policy, finance, community, business and arts and culture.

  • Year Placement: Integrated Professional Training (15 credits)

    This module aims to consolidate the learning and development you have gained through professional level experience in the form of a substantial work placement.

  • Mentoring and Coaching for Leadership (15 credits)

  • Freelancing and Entrepreneurship in CCI (15 credits)

    This practical module will support your skills and knowledge in order to have successful self-employment career irrespective of whether you identify as a freelancer, entrepreneur or someone with a portfolio career.

Placements

You can apply to take a sandwich year working in a placement between years two and three of the degree as part of the school's Integrated Professional Training Programme.

It is also possible to spend one term on the study abroad scheme and one term in a work placement in the UK. Alternatively, the Erasmus Plus Scheme enables students to spend a year working in Europe.

Download course specification:

Teaching and assessment

Your course will be delivered by passionate academics who are dedicated to helping you succeed in your studies.

To maximise the amount of attention given to you on the Music, Sound and Technology BSc (Hons) at City, we offer a considerable amount of tuition in small groups and individually. This enables you to tailor your work to your own interests.

Your learning, teaching and assessment will take the form of a combination of the following:

  • Lectures
  • Student-focused group discussions
  • Individual tutorials
  • Seminars by visiting professionals
  • Workshops for creative work
  • Ensemble rehearsals and performances
  • Studio-based composition/recording work
  • Guided listening and reading
  • Independent study and library research
  • Oral presentations
  • Ethnographic fieldwork assignments
  • Project work
  • Written examinations

Assessment methods

Assessment is by a combination of projects, practical and creative work, and examinations throughout your degree. Marks obtained in all years contribute to the final degree awarded.

Your project and practical work account for over half the final mark.

Most modules contain an assignment in the form of:

  • An extended written or practical project submitted some weeks following the conclusion of the lecture series.
  • A written or practical coursework assignment, in the form of a seminar presentation, a short essay, or creative and technical tasks completed before the end of the lecture series.

For some modules, assessment is based solely on a portfolio submission.

Percentage of the course assessed by coursework

The balance of assessment by examination, practical examination and assessment by coursework will depend on the optional modules you choose. The approximate percentage of the course assessment, based on choices made by students in 2019/20 is as follows:

Assessment

Year 1
Written examination: 19%
Practical: 13%
Coursework: 68%
Year 2
Written examination: 4%
Practical: 13%
Coursework: 83%
Year 3
Practical: 16%
Coursework: 84%

Overall workload

Most contact hours will take the form of a mixture of lectures, seminar presentations, workshops and tutorials, depending on the nature of the module.

This programme will include an average of 12 contact hours per week. In addition, you will be expected to undertake 23 independent study hours per week. Approximate study time, based on choices made by students in 2019/20 is as follows:

Workload

Year 1
Scheduled learning: 19%
Independent learning: 81%
Year 2
Scheduled learning: 19%
Independent learning: 81%
Year 3
Scheduled learning: 14%
Independent learning: 86%

Fees and funding

Fees for year 2023/24

UK

£9,250

Overseas/EU

£16,230

The fees indicated are for undergraduate entry in the 2023/24 academic year only. Fees for future years may be subject to an inflationary increase in the region of 5%.

Funding options

Explore up-to-date information about funding options, available financial support and typical living costs.

  • Fee waivers are available for this course.
  • Means tested support is available for 2023/24 entry.

Additional expenses

Some of our degrees may involve additional expenses which are not covered by your tuition fees. Find out more about additional expenses.

Career

The knowledge and skills you gain during the course will prepare you for a wide range of careers such as:

  • audio engineer
  • studio manager
  • sound designer
  • web and app designer
  • film, TV and video games composer
  • dubbing mixer
  • audio research and development
  • live sound operation for music and theatre
  • technical support for the recording industry.

Graduates have held the following positions:

  • Media Composer, Audio Network
  • Senior Product Designer, Native Instruments
  • Audio Manager, Rocksteady Studios
  • Head of Digital, Colt Technology Services
  • Senior Audio Supervisor, BBC
  • Producer, BBC Scotland
  • Senior Marketing Manager, EMI
  • Chief Executive, New York's Culture Shed.

Placement opportunities

Students at City’s Department of Performing Arts have recently undertaken placements at:

  • Brains and Hunch
  • British Harpischord Society
  • Les Misérables, The Queen's Theatre (Sound Department)
  • Live Music Now
  • London Ear Festival
  • London Philharmonic Orchestra (Education and Community Department)
  • MTV
  • Record of the Day
  • Richmond Music Trust
  • The Roundhouse
  • Songlines Magazine
  • Southwark Cathedral
  • Wired4music/Sound Connections
  • A large number of schools, colleges and community music organisations.

How to apply

Applications for degree courses must be made through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS).

Apply now

You will be able to apply through your school or college using the Apply system, which enables you to submit your application directly to the UCAS website.

You can apply to up to five universities or institutions on the form. The UCAS code for City, University of London is C60.

Please take care to enter the correct course code when applying, particularly for subjects with a Foundation year or with BEng (Hons) and MEng (Hons) or BSc (Hons) and MSci (Hons) options.

UCAS has implemented an 'invisibility of choices' policy so that, on the initial application and while you are receiving decisions, each institution can see only their entry and not those of other institutions you have chosen. This ensures that your application for a course at City is considered solely on your academic and personal qualities.

You should submit your completed application form to UCAS with a £26.50 application fee. If you want to apply to City, University of London only, you can make a single choice application at a reduced rate of £22.

For enquiries about the admissions process at City, please contact our Admissions Office

Complete the Admissions enquiry form

Call: +44 (0)20 7040 8716.

If your enquiry is about admission to a particular course, please use the contact details provided on the course page.

When to apply

Your application for entry in September 2023 should arrive at UCAS between September 2022 and 25th January 2023. Applications that arrive after 25th January 2023 will be considered only at City's discretion.

Contacting UCAS

Website: www.ucas.com

Address: Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS), Rosehill, New Barn Lane, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL52 3LZ

Telephone:

  • from inside the UK 0871 468 0468
  • from outside the UK +44 (0)871 468 0468

For callers with hearing difficulties:

  • from inside the UK use the Text Relay service on 18001 0871 468 0468
  • from outside the UK dial +44 151 494 1260 (text phone) and then ask the operator to dial 0871 468 0468.

Facilities

  • Two female undergraduate students using music studios onlooking the performance space
    You can take advantage of a wide range of facilities including: Advanced recording and composition studios, Professional performance space, Computer laboratories, Rehearsal rooms and Practice rooms.
  • Two female students in music mixing studios
    Our recording studio is equipped to deliver multitrack recording and mixing to a professional standard. Our composition studios include four surround studios (8.1/5.1).
  • Male student mixing sounds using computer software.
    All rooms are spectrum-analysed, soundproofed and acoustically treated to a very high standard.

Our students

Gain further insights into our courses through our students.

City student Cleo explored a career as a sound engineer. Find out what she loves about her studies with us and discover our outstanding music facilities.
BSc (Hons) Music, Sound and Technology student Jade shares her experience on the course and at City, and her advice for future students. 

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