University of Hull United Kingdom

BA (Hons) Music (Popular Music) 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

BA Music (Popular Music) is a variant of the BA Music programme. So you’ll share the same modules as other BA Music students. But when it comes to options within modules, you’ll focus on popular music.

To thrive in today’s popular music culture, you’ll need a mix of musical and technical skills. And to be able to work confidently with others across professional contexts. You'll study a range of technical skills to help you realise your best work. Project management, and rehearsal techniques. Music theory and lyric analysis. Fluency with key pieces of music software. Research skills, and social media skills for promoting your work. As well as festival programming.

You'll receive training in the critical and contextual dimensions of music. Working with expert staff to explore and challenge received wisdom about the value, status and significance of music in our society. Your practical work will culminate in a large-scale project: a stepping stone into your career.

And you can tap into our partnerships with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra (RPO) and Opera North. RPO hold masterclasses and offer career advice. As well as ensemble coaching, one-to-one tuition, and work experience.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This BA (Hons) Music (Popular Music) With Foundation Year program offers a comprehensive exploration of popular music, beginning with a foundational year designed to equip students with essential academic and research skills. Subsequent years delve into the practical and theoretical aspects of music creation, including recording, live performance, and applied techniques. The curriculum progresses to advanced topics such as individual and collaborative creative projects, specialist skills, and professional development, culminating in a major project and critical engagement with contemporary music practices and the future of the arts.

1 Foundation Year

Preparing for learning in higher education Compulsory
Foundation in data analysis Compulsory
Group challenge (humanities) Compulsory
Academic writing skills Compulsory
Research in the humanities, social sciences and education Compulsory
Introduction to study in the humanities Compulsory

2 First year

Creating recorded music
Core music techniques
Music, criticism and culture
Creating live music
Applied music skills
Music and its histories

3 Second year

Individual creative project
Specialist music skills
Case studies in contemporary practice
Collaborative creative project
Music and its objects
Professional music skills
Music and sound for media

4 Final year

Major project (music)
Questioning music
Generating insights into music
Working in music
The future of the arts

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

11% off
First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 21,780.00 USD 24,465.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,465.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,465.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,465.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 95,177.00 USD 97,863.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 548.00 - USD 560.00
Food & Groceries USD 4,833.00 - USD 7,249.00
Transport USD 806.00 - USD 3,222.00
Utilities & Bills USD 4,028.00 - USD 4,833.00
Estimated Total USD 9,667.00 - USD 15,304.00

Living cost estimates are based on Hull Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

95%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Amusement & Recreation ServicesAnimation & Visual EffectsFilm & Television ProductionGaming & Interactive MediaMuseums & Cultural HeritageMusic & Performing ArtsSports & AthleticsStreaming & Digital ContentTalent & Artist ManagementTheme Parks & Leisure

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Stagecoach Performing Arts

Why Study BA (Hons) Music (Popular Music) With Foundation Year at University of Hull

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Hull 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 (Popular Music) With Foundation Year at University of Hull

Can I work while studying?

International students in Degree programs can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is required.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as music producers, sound engineers, live sound technicians, or music marketing specialists.

What will I actually study in this course?

The BA Music (Popular Music) program focuses on popular music while sharing modules with other BA Music students. Key subjects include project management and music theory, aimed at equipping you with practical skills for the industry.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The BA (Hons) Music (Popular Music) program has an intake in September each year. Ensure you prepare your application and any required materials well in advance.
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