University of Derby United Kingdom

BA (Hons) Music Production 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 Production with Foundation Year at the University of Derby is your gateway into the dynamic world of contemporary music creation and the commercial music industry. This course is ideal if you possess a passion for sound, technology, and the business of music, and are eager to develop your creative and technical proficiencies. You will explore the art and science of recording, innovative commercial music practices, and the historical context of creative industries, preparing you for a future where your sonic ideas can thrive and reach audiences.

This full-time, on-campus degree, spanning four years, offers a comprehensive learning experience. You will engage with core modules covering creative technologies, sonic systems, and professional practice, alongside practical work in state-of-the-art facilities. Throughout your studies, you will develop essential skills in performance and studio production, spatial sound, and industry research. The program culminates in a significant research or production portfolio, allowing you to showcase your expertise and prepare for diverse career paths in music production, sound design, and the wider creative technology sector.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This BA (Hons) Music Production with Foundation Year program offers a comprehensive exploration of music creation and technology. The foundation year introduces core creative studies and technologies, preparing students for advanced modules in subsequent years. Students will delve into innovations in commercial music, the art and science of recording, music industry dynamics, and sonic systems. The curriculum culminates in a research project, production portfolio, and a significant creative project, equipping graduates with a robust skill set for a career in music production.

1 Foundation Year

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

2 Year One

Innovations in Commercial Music
Art and Science of Recording
Music - Institutions, Industries and Audiences
Creative Technology Exploration

3 Year Two

Performance and Studio Production
Spatial Sound and Music Perception
Industry: Research and Practice
Sonic Systems

4 Diploma in Professional Practice (Optional)

Applied Professional Practice
Contemporary Issues in Professional Practice

5 Year Three

Research Project
Production Portfolio
Creative 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

Amusement & Recreation ServicesEducation Policy & AdministrationEducational Support ServicesGaming & Interactive MediaMedia Production & EditingMuseums & Cultural HeritageMusic & Performing ArtsPhotojournalism & Visual MediaStreaming & Digital ContentVocational & Technical Training

Top Employers Hiring for this course

AQA

British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)

Derby Theatre

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

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time. No separate work permit is needed.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To enroll, you need an IELTS score of at least 6 overall, with a minimum of 5.5 in listening, reading, speaking, and writing. Make sure to prepare accordingly to meet these requirements!

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue various job titles such as Music Producer, Sound Engineer, Audio Technician, Music Composer, and Studio Manager.

What will I actually study in this course?

This course covers essential topics like music production technology and the commercial aspects of the music industry. Students gain practical studio skills and access state-of-the-art facilities at the University of Derby.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The intake month for the BA (Hons) Music Production with Foundation Year is September each year. Be sure to apply in advance to secure your place!
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