University of Derby United Kingdom

BA (Hons) Music Performance with Foundation Year

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree With Integrated Foundation Year
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The BA (Hons) Music Performance with Foundation Year at the University of Derby offers a comprehensive pathway for aspiring musicians seeking to deepen their understanding and practice within the creative industries. This undergraduate degree is ideal for students passionate about performance, composition, and music technology, providing a solid grounding in the history and theory of creative practice alongside essential creative arts skills. You will explore innovative approaches to music, preparing you to engage with and contribute to the evolving landscape of music institutions and industries, fostering both technical proficiency and critical artistic insight.

This full-time, on-campus programme, extending over four years, includes a foundational year designed to build your academic and creative confidence. You will engage with core modules in performance, recording, composition, and production, culminating in a significant creative project and research project in your final year. Through hands-on experience and dedicated mentorship, you will develop a professional portfolio and gain the practical and theoretical knowledge necessary to pursue diverse career opportunities within the music and creative technology sectors.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program offers a comprehensive music performance education, beginning with a foundational year focused on creative studies, technologies, and essential arts skills. Subsequent years delve into performance redefined, commercial music innovations, recording techniques, and the broader context of music industries and audiences. Advanced study includes performance and studio production, composition, industry research, and spatial sound, culminating in a production portfolio, creative project, and independent research.

1 Foundation Year

Creative Studies
Creative Technologies
History and Theory of Creative Practice
Creative Arts Skills
Negotiated Project

2 Year One

Performance Redefined
Innovations in Commercial Music
Art and Science of Recording
Music - Institutions, Industries and Audiences

3 Year Two

Performance and Studio Production
Composition by Design
Industry: Research and Practice
Spatial Sound and Music Perception

4 Year Three

Production Portfolio
Creative Project
Research Project

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

13% off
First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 18,268.00 USD 20,951.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 20,951.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 20,951.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 20,951.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 81,122.00 USD 83,805.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Food & Groceries USD 3,222.00 - USD 8,200.00
Transport USD 903.00 - USD 935.00
Utilities & Bills USD 2,093.00 - USD 2,616.00
Estimated Total USD 6,218.00 - USD 11,228.00

Living cost estimates are based on Derby Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

96%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Accreditation & Assessment ServicesCorporate Training & DevelopmentEdTech & E-LearningLive Events & ConcertsMusic & Performing ArtsSecondary & High School EducationSpecial & Inclusive EducationStreaming & Digital ContentTheme Parks & LeisureVocational & Technical Training

Top Employers Hiring for this course

AQA

Derby Theatre

Why Study BA (Hons) Music Performance with Foundation Year at University of Derby

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Derby in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about BA (Hons) Music Performance with Foundation Year at University of Derby

Can I work while studying?

International students in degree courses can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is needed.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet the English language requirements, you need an overall IELTS score of 6.0 with at least 5.5 in listening, reading, speaking, and writing.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Potential job titles include Music Producer, Sound Engineer, Music Teacher, Live Sound Technician, and Composer.

What will I actually study in this course?

This course explores essential areas such as popular music performance and technology. It aims to provide students with the skills necessary to succeed in the dynamic music industry.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The intake month for the BA (Hons) Music Performance with Foundation Year is September. Ensure you apply ahead of time to secure your spot.
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