HND Popular Music Studies
(UCAS Code: 043W; Institution code S29)
Full-time: 2 years
This largely practical course will equip you with the technical and vocational skills required for employment in a wide variety of roles within the music industry. You will be taught in SBC's purpose-built facilities, including a 440-seat auditorium, four recording studios and four music technology suites, where you will work with current music industry professionals and possibly undertake a relevant commercial placement.
You will study a number of modules are designed to develop specific skills, such as studio production techniques, advanced performance skills and song-writing and compositional skills for film, television and performance. Much of your work will be geared towards the development of professional products (performances, tours, CDs or radio shows). The course will help you to develop your own professional profile and individual artistic identity as you explore all aspects of the contemporary music industry.
There are three course pathways: Performance, Production and Composition. In year one, you will choose two of these. This not only enables you to understand other areas of the discipline and to develop new skills, but also reflects the reality of the commercial music industry, where practitioners may undertake a variety of roles.
During your second year you will specialise in just one area, working in a professional-standard environment and developing more advanced skills. You will also undertake a self-directed group project appropriate to your career aspirations; this may be starting a record label, touring a musical performance or engaging in commercial activities with other media platforms, such as TV, video or radio.
This course attracts both students who progress directly from secondary education and those who may have many years’ experience in the commercial music industry. This contributes to a vibrant teaching environment and opportunities for shared learning.
A variety of assessment methods include practical project work and written presentations. Grades are awarded for creativity, technical skills, research, analysis, communication, project resolution and student discussion. Other assessment methods include the observation of performances, rehearsals and recording sessions; and the creation of products such as recordings, compositions, portfolios and log books.
Particular employment routes for graduates include solo musician, band musician, studio engineer, music producer or composer (for pop music market or for film and TV). However, this is a highly competitive industry so graduates may choose to start as a session musician, studio designer, builder, arranger, etc. while their career develops.
Minimum Entry Requirements
Applications are through UCAS. Normally, you must be at least 18 years old on entry and have one of the following:
- At least one A2 Level
- GNVQ Advanced with Merit
- BTEC National Diploma in a relevant subject
- Scottish Certificate of Education (Higher) with at least three passes at grade C
- Professional qualification of an appropriate standard
- Pass in a recognised Access course
- Portfolio of creative work
- Equivalent qualifications or experience
For further information, visit SBC's website or contact Maighread Hegarty at SBC for further details.
T: 0121 694 5000
F: 0121 694 6330
W: www.sbc.ac.uk