University of South Wales United Kingdom

BA (Hons) Popular and Commercial Music

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 3 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The BA (Hons) Popular and Commercial Music at the University of South Wales is designed for aspiring musicians and industry professionals eager to explore and shape the diverse landscape of contemporary music. You will delve into various sub-genres, from electronica to folk and urban, with a strong emphasis on developing your unique artistic voice through songwriting, performance, and studio production. This undergraduate degree is ideal for students who thrive on collaboration, experimentation, and wish to gain practical skills directly applicable to the dynamic music industry and wider creative sectors.

This full-time, on-campus degree, studied over three years, immerses you in practical music-making and industry experience. You will engage with modules covering song analysis, music theory, songwriting, live performance, studio production, and music business practices, often working to real industry briefs. The syllabus includes opportunities for professional development, such as planning and executing a music festival and building a career portfolio. You will graduate with a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) degree, prepared for diverse career paths within the music and creative industries, leveraging the skills and connections forged during your studies.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program offers a comprehensive exploration of popular and commercial music, guiding students through artistic development, performance, and studio production. Across three years, you will delve into songwriting, music industry practices, and professional musicianship, preparing you for a dynamic career. The curriculum emphasizes creative musicianship, sound for media, and developing the skills necessary to thrive in the contemporary music landscape.

1 Year One - Popular and Commercial Music degree

Inside the music
Getting plugged in
Words and music
Artistic development and performance
Studio production

2 Year Two - Popular and Commercial Music degree

The creative musician
Music and sound for media
Professional performance
Music industry practice

3 Year Three - Popular and Commercial Music degree

The professional musician A
The professional musician B
Immersed in the city
Industry ready

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

15% off
First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 19,352.00 USD 22,708.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 22,708.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 22,708.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 64,769.00 USD 68,125.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 837.00 - USD 1,392.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,222.00 - USD 5,639.00
Transport USD 967.00 - USD 1,934.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,450.00 - USD 2,417.00
Estimated Total USD 5,639.00 - USD 9,990.00

Living cost estimates are based on Cardiff Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

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

Common Graduate Roles

Advertising & Media SalesEvent Promotion & ManagementFilm & Television ProductionJournalism & ReportingLive Events & ConcertsMedia Research & AnalyticsMusic & Performing ArtsSocial Media & Content StrategySports & AthleticsStreaming & Digital Content

Top Employers Hiring for this course

BBC Studios

Why Study BA (Hons) Popular and Commercial Music at University of South Wales

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of South Wales 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) Popular and Commercial Music at University of South Wales

Can I work while studying?

International students in degree courses can work up to 20 hours per week during term time. Full-time work is allowed during breaks without needing a separate work permit.

What English language score do I need for this course?

For English proficiency, you can meet requirements through TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE scores. Make sure to review the specific scores needed for listening, reading, speaking, and writing.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue jobs as music producers, songwriters, performers, or sound engineers.

What will I actually study in this course?

This degree is based at USW’s purpose-built campus, in the creative centre of Cardiff.

The Popular and Commercial Music degree encourages you to develop your own voice and musical identity. Your studies will embrace popular and commercial music in its many forms and sub-genres, from electronica to folk, urban, rock and cutting edge-pop.

With an emphasis on original work, our music degree will teach you how to collaborate with your fellow students in performance, songwriting and

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The BA (Hons) Popular and Commercial Music course begins in September. It's essential to prepare your application before this month.
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