Music and Audio Production BSc (Hons)

Study level: Undergraduate
Student using recording studio

Have a passion for making and listening to music? This course covers skills needed to create, record and produce music and audio.

Year of entry

2023-24

Location

Coventry University (Coventry)

Study mode

Full-time
Sandwich

Duration

3 years full-time
4 years sandwich

Course code

W374

Start date

September 2023

How to apply
Book an Open Day
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Course overview

This course is ideal for those who have a passion for creative practices in both music and sound, and wish to explore the technical skill of those practices.

  • On our course you’ll explore the principles of music and audio production including recording music in the studio, writing, arranging and producing music with technology, live sound, sound design, sound effect, synthesis and interactive sound design (e.g. computer game audio). We also cover the music business, careers and employability. You will also have access to 5 recording studios (including Audient, Yamaha Nuage, Neve and SSL mixing desks) many live rooms and performance spaces and an iMac music tech suite running Pro Tools, Logic, Cubase, Nuendo, Ableton Live, Max/ Msp, Sibelius and Dorico4.
  • We are a certified Steinberg training centre1. As part of the course you may have the opportunity to go to Rock Field Studio (where Queen recorded Bohemian Rhapsody) for a week of master classes in recording and mastering2.
  • Upon completion of this course, you may have the opportunity to become music producers, sound engineers, composers; audio post- production and game audio technicians together with work in extensive related fields such as radio and television sound.
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Global Ready

An international outlook, with global opportunities
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Teaching excellence

Taught by lecturers who are experts in their field
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Employability

Career ready graduates, with the skills to succeed

Why you should study this course

The course is designed to reflect the range of areas that make up the subject of music technology and the wide range of jobs that may be available to you once you have completed your studies. The course comes with the following benefits and opportunities:

  • Access to our fantastic facilities: 5 recording studios, large microphone stock, large venue PA systems and dedicated computer labs4.
  • A vibrant and creative environment, you may have access to professional practices, new research and graduate support.
  • Dedicated, experienced and qualified teaching staff with a mixture of commercial, academic and research related expertise at an international level (staff may be subject to change).
  • For successful graduates, a potential range of career opportunities as music producers, sound engineers, composers, and audio postproduction technicians.
  • We are a certified Steinberg training centre1. As part of the course you may have the opportunity to go to Rock Field Studio (where Queen recorded Bohemian Rhapsody) for a week of master classes in recording and mastering2.

Accreditation and professional recognition

This course is accredited1 and recognised by the following bodies:

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Steinberg Certified Training Centre

Steinberg Certified Trainers and Training Centers help you get the most from Steinberg products. We use the latest Steinberg software and have extensive current product and systems knowledge.

AF Audio Fusion logo

AudioFusion

AudioFusion develops forward-thinking training tools for audio engineers and musicians to further their careers in the sound related arts. The first software, Soundcheck, is an AES Student Design Winner and is now used in courses across the globe. Since launching, AudioFusion has taken their pro audio simulations to different platforms such as 3D, Virtual Reality and continues to advocate the benefits of virtual simulations in education.

Music at Coventry University.

What you'll study

This course has a common first year.

The common first year enables you to work alongside students doing similar courses to you, to widen your knowledge and exposure to other subject areas and professions. You will have the opportunity to collaborate with other students, so you can share your insights and experience which will help you to develop and learn.

If you discover an interest in a specific subject you have studied, so upon successful completion of your first year, you could swap degrees with another course in your common first year (subject to meeting progression requirements).

Common first year courses

  • Popular Music Performance and Songwriting BA (Hons)

In the first year, the curriculum is shared across related courses allowing you to gain a broad grounding in the discipline before going on, in the second and third years, to specialist modules in your chosen field.

Modules

  • With this module, you will aim to develop skills that underpin contemporary audio and popular music: use of the Digital Audio Workstation (DAW), music theory, musicianship skills and songwriting.

    Compulsory

  • In this module, you will look to further develop your music production and songwriting skills. You will explore the types of techniques and creative strategies in songwriting and audio and music production used by musicians working in a range of global music genres and will apply this knowledge to your own practice-based work.

    Compulsory

  • In this module, you will start to situate Popular Music and Music Production in its wider cultural, political, social and historical contexts. You will explore a range of global musical practices and cultures to understand how and why music is produced and where, how and why it is consumed by audiences.

    Compulsory

  • This course introduces you to the tools and methods of networking, promoting, and marketing through online music platforms, social media, blogging, and vlogging, as both a national and global phenomenon. You will address examples in the sector of entrepreneurial behaviours, attributes, and skills in the promotion and selling of music.

    Compulsory

  • In this module, you will be introduced to the recording studio. Through practical work, you will be introduced to the skills and knowledge needed in bringing to realisation a recording project. You will also be invited to reflect on your studio practice.

     

    Compulsory

  • In this module, you will take a role in the creation of a live performance by making use of an integral set of skills that encompass rehearsing music to be presented in a live performance, supporting the performance, and setting and using live sound setup.

    Compulsory

In year two, you will continue to develop the skills and knowledge you’ve learnt. We do this by embedding the following four principles into the curriculum and developing your:

  • Technical skills – digital fluency, backed with the right academic knowledge
  • Study skills – to be an adaptive, independent and proactive learner
  • Professional skills – to have the behaviour and abilities to succeed in your career
  • Global awareness – the beliefs and abilities to be a resilient, confident and motivated global citizen

You will develop more advanced knowledge and skills to do with: sound design, mixing, and game audio, amongst others.

Modules

  • The module introduces you to the techniques of sound synthesis and of sampling with an understanding of their implementation in commercially available technologies. It includes extensive exposure to hands-on techniques through programming of synthesis and sampling instruments.

    Compulsory

  • With this module you will be asked to create, produce and implement sound and music for a game.

    Compulsory

  • In this module, you will seek to gain a critical understanding of the major theories, principles, and concepts inherent to the subject of Audio Mixing and Mastering. Employing both Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) and recording studio resources, you will mix music and critically reflect upon the process.

    Compulsory

  • This module aims to develop critical and creative practices in the field of music and sound and the moving image. It will deal principally with films (movies) but may also consider more recent developments in relation to music and sound in the computer game industry and other moving image (video) scenarios.

    Compulsory

  • With this module, you will explore creative coding and their application both in the creation of digital artwork and in the creation of tools for use in digital music, sound and interactive art.

    Compulsory

  • In this module, you will work with students from courses across the School of Media and Performing Arts and/or industry partners, external groups or organisations to respond to an issue in the local, national or global community in which they are located.

    Compulsory

There’s no better way to find out what you love doing than trying it out for yourself, which is why a work placement2 can often be beneficial. Work placements usually occur between your second and final year of study. They’re a great way to help you explore your potential career path and gain valuable work experience, whilst developing transferable skills for the future.

If you choose to do a work placement year, you will pay a reduced tuition fee3 of £1250. For more information, please go to the fees and funding section. During this time you will receive guidance from your employer or partner institution, along with your assigned academic mentor who will ensure you have the support you need to complete your placement.

Modules

  • This module2 provides you with an opportunity to reflect upon and gain experience for an approved placement undertaken during your programme. A placement should usually be at least 26 weeks or equivalent; however, each placement will be considered on its own merits, having regard to the ability to achieve the learning outcomes.

    Optional

  • This module2 provides you with an opportunity to reflect upon and gain experience for an approved international study/work placement undertaken during your programme. A work/study placement should usually be at least 26 weeks or equivalent; however, each placement will be considered on its own merits, having regard to the ability to achieve the learning outcomes.

    Optional

Year three aims to bring you to the level to enter the world of work by consolidating your knowledge and skills from year one and two.  Your studies could culminate in a dissertation, the production of a documentary film, or by launching a curated exhibition based on your independent research of an area of interest to you. 

Modules

  • This module introduces the theory and practice of making music with MIDI using contemporary software tools and virtual instrumentation techniques. You will be exploring the use of MIDI sequencing and Digital Audio Workstation software to make MIDI music for fixed media.

    Compulsory

  • This module builds on programming concepts that you have developed in the module, Creative Coding and introduces you to their application in web applications. This will involve developing skills in web programming languages such as HTML, CSS and JavaScript.

    Compulsory

  • This module is intended for those interested in using spatial audio (5.1 and Dolby ATMOS) mixing techniques in a variety of contexts including but not limited to spatial music composition, virtual and cinema surround sound, up-mixing of exiting stereo music for 360 media and streaming, surround sound for gaming and mobile devices.

    Compulsory

  • Self-branding is essential in the music Industry and you will reflect on your position and image and propose a visual and online representation of your artistic persona.

    Compulsory

  • The main aim of this module is to provide you with an opportunity to design, negotiate and develop a major creative project. Examples of suitable projects include extended performance, original songwriting and recording in the form of an EP (Extended Play), immersive audio and music, music production and/or audio project, music/sound for media placement or work-based study, musicological study, music composition for film or animation, and pedagogy.

    Compulsory

We regularly review our course content, to make it relevant and current for the benefit of our students. For these reasons, course modules may be updated.

How you'll learn

In our course, we use an immersive learning path where you will study using a focused teaching method, focusing on one subject at a time for a few weeks before moving to the next study. We give free time and space for students to experiment.

You will be taught through lectures, workshops and tutorials, as well as through industry recognised artists and professionals (subject to availability). Previous examples of speakers have been music producers, composers, sound engineers, label, artists and tour managers2.

Teaching contact hours

We understand that everyone learns differently, so each of our courses will consist of structured teaching sessions, which can include:  

  • On campus lectures, seminars and workshops
  • Group work 
  • Self-directed learning 
  • Work placement opportunities2. 

The number of full-time contact hours may vary from semester to semester, however, on average, it is likely to be around 12 contact hours per week in the first and second year dropping to around 10-12 contact hours per week in the third and final year as you become a more independent learner.

Additionally, you will be expected to undertake significant self-directed study of approximately 15 hours each week, depending on the demands of individual modules.

Part of university life is undertaking self-directed learning. During a typical week you will have time that allows you to work independently to apply the skills and knowledge you have learnt in taught or facilitated sessions to your projects or assignment briefs. This self-directed learning allows you to use your research skills, consolidate your knowledge or undertake collaborative group work.

As an innovative and enterprising institution, the University may seek to utilise emerging technologies within the student experience. For all courses (whether on-campus, blended, or distance learning), the University may deliver certain contact hours and assessments via online technologies and methods.

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, we are prepared for courses due to start in or after the 2023/2024 academic year to be delivered in a variety of forms. The form of delivery will be determined in accordance with Government and Public Health guidance. Whether on campus or online, our key priority is staff and student safety.

Assessment

This course will be assessed using a variety of methods which will vary depending upon the module. Assessment methods include:

  • Practical or project work
  • Coursework
  • Tests
  • Essays
  • Presentations/posters.

The Coventry University Group assessment strategy ensures that our courses are fairly assessed and allows us to monitor student progression towards the achieving the intended learning outcomes.

Assessments may include exams, individual assignments or group work elements.

International experience opportunities

The course offers an international field trip to students2 (subject to availability, application, meeting visa requirements and additional costs). Students in the past have been to Berlin to visit Ableton Labs and spent time in Hansa Studios where classic David Bowie and Depeche Mode albums were recorded. In addition, students recently went to Hong Kong where they took part in a pop-up show. You may also have the opportunity to go to Rock Field Studio for a week of master classes in recording and mastering.

Entry requirements

Typical offer for 2023/24 entry.

Requirement What we're looking for
A level BBB
GCSE Minimum 5 GCSEs graded 9-4 including English and Maths
BTEC DDM
IB Diploma 31 points
Access to HE The Access to HE Diploma. Plus GCSE English and Mathematics at grade 4 / C or above.

We recognise a breadth of qualifications, speak to one of our advisers today to find out how we can help you.

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Portfolio

You may be required to attend a portfolio showcase, activity session or audition or submit a portfolio via email (as is appropriate to your course), either virtually or face to face, as is practical to arrange. Invites for these sessions will be sent directly to your contact email.

Each application will be considered on its merits.

Are you eligible for the Fair Access Scheme?

We believe every student should have the opportunity to dream big, reach their potential and succeed, regardless of their background. Find out more about our Fair Access Scheme.

Select your region to find detailed information about entry requirements:

Europe

Americas

Middle East

South Asia

South East Asia

East Asia

Africa

Russia and Central Asia


You can view our full list of country specific entry requirements on our Entry requirements page.

Alternatively, visit our International hub for further advice and guidance on finding in-country agents and representatives, joining our in-country events and how to apply.

Portfolio

You may be required to submit a portfolio via email or alternatively attend a showcase activity session or audition (as is appropriate for your course) which can be virtual or face to face, as is practical to arrange. Invites to send in your portfolio or attend these sessions will be sent directly to your contact email.

Each application will be considered on its merits.

English language requirements

  • IELTS: 6.0 overall, with no component lower than 5.5. Pre-sessional English is available if required.

If you don't meet the English language requirements, you can achieve the level you need by successfully completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course. 

For more information on our approved English language tests visit our English language requirements page.

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Fees and funding

2023/24 tuition fees.

Student Full-time Part-time
UK £9,250 per year Not available
International £19,850 per year Not available

If you choose to do a work placement2, you should consider travel and living costs to cover this. There is also a tuition fee3 of £1,250 that will cover your academic support throughout your placement year.

For advice and guidance on tuition fees and student loans visit our Undergraduate Finance page and see The University’s Tuition Fee and Refund Terms and Conditions.

We offer a range of International scholarships to students all over the world. For more information, visit our International Scholarships page.

Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessments, facilities and support services. There may be additional costs not covered by this fee such as accommodation and living costs, recommended reading books, stationery, printing and re-assessments should you need them. Find out what's included in your tuition costs.

The following are additional costs not included in the tuition fees:

  • Any optional overseas field trips or visits: £400+ per trip.
  • Any costs associated with securing, attending or completing a placement (whether in the UK or abroad)

  • We carry out an initial fee status assessment based on the information you provide in your application. Your fee status determines your tuition fees, and what financial support and scholarships may be available to you. The rules about who pays UK (home) or international (overseas) fees for higher education courses in England are set by the government's Department for Education. The regulations identify all the different categories of student who can insist on paying the home rate. The regulations can be difficult to understand, so the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) has provided fee status guidance to help you identify whether you are eligible to pay the home or overseas rate.

    If you meet all the criteria required by any one category, including any residence requirements, your institution must charge you the home rate. You only need to find one category that you fit into.

Facilities

At Coventry, students benefit from superb facilities4 so they can build on their practical talent. Facilities include:

  • Several recording studios (including SSL and Neve mixing desks)
  • Various live rooms and performance spaces
  • An iMac music tech suite plus further state-of-the-art recording studios running Pro Tools, Logic, Live, Max and Sibelius on Apple macs.
Student using computer equipment on a recording studio desk.

Recording studios

With some of our courses, you can have access to five recording studios, instrument storage, and an iMac music tech suite. We also have state-of-the-art recording studios running Pro Tools, Logic, Live, Max and Sibelius on Apple macs.

Students acting out a classroom scene on stage

Performance spaces

Our Ellen Terry Building has a dance performance space, two dance studios and a theatre workshop. It also has dressing rooms and storage with around 3,500 costume items and 1,500 accessories.
 

Student playing trumpet on stage accompanied by a pianist.

Music seminar room

A great space for our budding musicians, our specialist music seminar room comes with a grand piano, PA, amps, drum kit and 5.1 surround sound, all directly linked to a control room for recording.
 

Careers and opportunities

On successful completion, you should have knowledge of:

  • Concepts of professionalism within music technology (including composition, recording techniques and technology, Live sound, music production) and related disciplines and their relationship to music technology within a global context.
  • The skills, processes and techniques required for the creation, realisation, presentation and management of work as a music technologist, working within the digital age.

You should be equipped with the skills to:

  • Demonstrate technical skills relating to a range of recording, mastering, Music production, live sound and music composition.
  • Apply technological and music related skills creatively to a brief to a high standard of aptitude, demonstrating the appropriate breadth and depth of conceptual development.
  • Apply creative solutions to a brief, using technical means and appropriate application of materials, processes and technologies to develop a coherent body of work that reflects the particular characteristics of your own creative perspective.

There is a strong emphasis within the course on your future career, not only helping you to discover your potential chosen career path but also ensuring that you have the professional level of business skill and knowledge to thrive in this demanding industry.

Where our graduates work

Previous examples of employment include music producers, sound engineers, composers; audio post- production technicians together with work in extensive related fields such as radio and television sound.

Further study

You can choose to continue your studies at Coventry University with:

You may be entitled to an alumni discount on your fees if you decide to extend your time with us by progressing from undergraduate to postgraduate study.

How to apply

  • Coventry University together with Coventry University London Campus, CU Coventry, CU London, CU Scarborough and Coventry University Online come together to form part of the Coventry University Group (the “University”) with all degrees awarded by Coventry University. 

    1Accreditations

    The majority of our courses have been formally recognised by professional bodies, which means the courses have been reviewed and tested to ensure they reach a set standard. In some instances, studying on an accredited course can give you additional benefits such as exemptions from professional exams (subject to availability, fees may apply). Accreditations, partnerships, exemptions and memberships shall be renewed in accordance with the relevant bodies’ standard review process and subject to the university maintaining the same high standards of course delivery.

    2UK and international opportunities

    Please note that we are unable to guarantee any UK or International opportunities (whether required or optional) such as internships, work experience, field trips, conferences, placements or study abroad opportunities and that all such opportunities may be subject to additional costs (which could include, but is not limited to, equipment, materials, bench fees, studio or facilities hire, travel, accommodation and visas), competitive application, availability and/or meeting any applicable travel COVID and visa requirements. To ensure that you fully understand the visa requirements, please contact the International Office.

    3Tuition fees

    The University will charge the tuition fees that are stated in the above table for the first Academic Year of study. The University will review tuition fees each year. For Home Students, if Parliament permit an increase in tuition fees, the University may increase fees for each subsequent year of study in line with any such changes. Note that any increase is expected to be in line with inflation.

    For International Students, we may increase fees each year but such increases will be no more than 5% above inflation. If you defer your course start date or have to extend your studies beyond the normal duration of the course (e.g. to repeat a year or resit examinations) the University reserves the right to charge you fees at a higher rate and/or in accordance with any legislative changes during the additional period of study.

    4Facilities

    Due to COVID-19, some facilities (including some teaching and learning spaces) and some non-academic offerings (particularly in relation to international experiences), may vary from those advertised and may have reduced availability or restrictions on their use.

    Student Contract

    By accepting your offer of a place and enrolling with us, a Student Contract will be formed between you and the university. The 2023/24 Contract is currently being updated so please revisit this page before submitting your application. The Contract details your rights and the obligations you will be bound by during your time as a student and contains the obligations that the university will owe to you. You should read the Contract before you accept an offer of a place and before you enrol at the university.

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