BA (Hons) Popular Music Performance and Production

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 Music Performance and Production at Southampton Solent University is your pathway to mastering the creative and technical skills essential for a dynamic career in the music industry. This undergraduate degree is designed for aspiring musicians and producers who want to develop their performance techniques, studio recording expertise, and understanding of the music business. You will explore key aspects of music creation, from songwriting and production to live performance and industry careers, gaining a comprehensive foundation in this vibrant field. This course provides a balanced approach, integrating practical application with critical thinking and research skills.

You will study this programme full-time on campus over three years, engaging with a curriculum that progresses from foundational performance and studio recording techniques in your first year to advanced music production and collaborative projects in your final year. Throughout your studies, you will have access to industry-standard facilities, including professional recording studios and production labs. The course culminates in a major project, allowing you to delve deeply into an area of personal interest. You will graduate with a versatile skillset, prepared for diverse career opportunities in music performance, production, artist development, and entrepreneurship.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program offers a comprehensive exploration of popular music, covering performance techniques, studio recording, and music production across multiple years. Students will develop creative skills in performance and production, alongside essential industry knowledge in areas like creative industries, music portfolio careers, and entrepreneurship. The curriculum also includes opportunities to specialize through optional modules in songwriting, sound design, experimental performance, and advanced mixing techniques, culminating in a major project.

1 Year one

Performance Techniques 1
Introduction to Studio Recording 1
Creative Music Industries
Creative Performance 1
Creative Music Production 1
Theory and Listening Skills

2 Year two

Performance Techniques 2
Advanced Studio Recording 1
Music Portfolio Careers
Creative Performance 2
Creative Music Production 2

3 Optional modules

Songwriting Techniques
Creative Sound Design

4 Final year

Music Collaboration
Advanced Music Production
Entrepreneurship and Artist Development
Major Project

5 Optional modules

Introduction to Experimental Music Performance
Surround Mixing
Songwriting Portfolio

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 25,791.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 25,791.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 25,791.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 77,375.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 693.00 - USD 1,552.00
Food & Groceries USD 2,417.00 - USD 4,833.00
Transport USD 806.00 - USD 1,611.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,128.00 - USD 2,095.00
Estimated Total USD 4,351.00 - USD 8,539.00

Living cost estimates are based on East Park Terrace campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

91%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Animation & Visual EffectsDigital Media & Online PublishingEvent & Experiential MarketingMarket Research & InsightsMarketing Analytics & Data ManagementMusic & Performing ArtsPhotojournalism & Visual MediaSocial Media & Community ManagementSocial Media & Content StrategySports & Athletics

Top Employers Hiring for this course

British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)

Sky Group

Why Study BA (Hons) Popular Music Performance and Production at Southampton Solent University

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at Southampton Solent University 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 Music Performance and Production at Southampton Solent University

Can I work while studying?

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

What English language score do I need for this course?

You will need to meet specific English language requirements, such as scoring at least 95 in Duolingo or 80 in TOEFL. Minimum IELTS scores are 6.0 overall with no less than 5.5 in any section.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Career options include roles such as sound engineer, music producer, performance artist, and project manager.

What will I actually study in this course?

This program covers both creative and technical aspects of music, including extensive study of the music industry, copyright, and contract law. It helps students develop transferable skills like research, teamwork, and project management.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The BA (Hons) Popular Music Performance and Production course has intakes in January and September. Make sure to apply ahead of these months to secure your spot.
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
 
Account
  • New student?

Search for universities & courses

ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️