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Course options

  • Qualification

    Bachelor of Arts (with Honours) - BA (Hons)

  • Location

    South and City College Birmingham

  • Study mode

    Full time

  • Start date

    01-SEP-26

  • Duration

    3 Years

Course summary

The Popular Music degree course provides the training and skills necessary for a wide range of careers within the music industry.

You will develop understanding of the global commercial music sector, study musical output and techniques, and improve your creativity, professionalism and practical musicianship to a level needed for graduate employment.

This full three-year Honours degree develops both the practical and transferable skills required to make you industry-ready, and the contextual understanding and academic rigour inherent in high-level study.

What's covered in this course?

Awarded by Birmingham City University, this is a high level course with experienced staff and excellent resources. With 3 recording studios, 7 rehearsal rooms, 2 sequencing suites and a 600-capacity working venue on site, you will enjoy the exciting, creative opportunities and supportive environment.

Your principal study can be in performance, music technology, live sound or composition. The course takes a holistic approach to musical study, with every student developing a broad range of skillsets required to become a successful music professional. Assessments are varied and innovative, and often modelled on real industry practice.

You will study the theory, wider contexts and contemporary issues surrounding the global music industry and there will be regular visits from industry experts and artists. You will also develop the musical and creative skills required by a performer, composer or producer, learn how to work well in teams and demonstrate leadership, organisation and decision-making skills. This course will help you to develop a profile suitable for an artist looking for employment within the music industry, and to develop a clear conceptual understanding of connected issues and narratives, researching deeply into current musicology and practice.

Application deadline

14/01/2026

Tuition fees

Students living in United States
(International fees)

£ 18,570per year

Tuition fees shown are for indicative purposes and may vary. Please check with the institution for most up to date details.

University information

University image

Birmingham City University

  • University League Table

    103rd

  • Campus address

    Birmingham City University, University House, 15 Bartholomew Row, Birmingham, Birmingham, B5 5JU, England

Live and study in an affordable multicultural city with a diverse multi-ethnic population.
Many master's courses offer international students optional six-month professional placements towards the end of their studies.

Subject rankings

  • Subject ranking

    26th out of 80 4

  • Entry standards

    / Max 223
    140 63%

    32nd

  • Graduate prospects

    / Max 100
    75.0 75%

    24th

  • Student satisfaction

    / Max 4
    3.10 77%

    48th

    29

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