Bachelor of Arts (Honours) Popular Music: Drums

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Next Intake TBA

Course Overview

The Bachelor of Arts (Honours) Popular Music: Drums at Munster Technological University is your pathway to mastering the art of drumming within the vibrant landscape of contemporary music. This programme is ideal for aspiring drummers eager to explore the diverse genres that define popular music, from rock and blues to electronic dance music and modern musical theatre. You will develop a comprehensive understanding of drumming techniques, ensemble dynamics, and the essential music technology that underpins modern production, equipping you for a dynamic career in the thriving global music industry.

You will study this popular music degree full-time on campus over four years, immersing yourself in a hands-on learning experience centred around small popular ensembles. Your daily engagement will involve a blend of performance classes, music technology labs, and supporting lectures covering contextual harmony, musicianship, and creative innovation. You will refine your skills through dedicated instrumental studies and performance workshops, culminating in a significant final-year project. Upon graduation, you will possess the advanced performance capabilities and industry acumen to pursue professional opportunities as a session musician, educator, or music producer.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Bachelor of Arts (Honours) Popular Music: Drums program offers a comprehensive study of popular music performance and musicianship. Across multiple stages, students engage in mandatory modules covering contextual harmony, creativity, innovation, teamwork, and music technology. The curriculum also emphasizes practical application through popular ensemble workshops and specialized instrumental studies, with opportunities for elective specialization in performance.

1 Stage 1 / Semester 1

Contextual Harmony 1 Mandatory
Creativity Innovation&Teamwork Mandatory
Popular Ensemble Workshop 1 Mandatory
Popular Instrumental Studies 1 Mandatory
Popular Musicianship 1 Mandatory

2 Stage 1 / Semester 2

Contextual Harmony 2 Mandatory
Music & Technology 1-2 Mandatory
Popular Ensemble Workshop 2 Mandatory
Popular Instrumental Studies 2 Mandatory
Popular Musicianship 2 Mandatory

3 Stage 2 / Semester 1

Music & Technology 3 Mandatory
Popular Ensemble Workshop 3 Mandatory
Popular Instrumental Studies 3 Mandatory
Popular Musicianship 3 Mandatory
Production Studies & Marketing Mandatory

4 Stage 2 / Semester 2

Music & Technology 4 Mandatory
Popular Ensemble Workshop 4 Mandatory
Popular Instrumental Studies 4 Mandatory
Popular Musicianship 4 Mandatory

5 Stage 3 / Semester 1

Music & Technology 5 Mandatory
Popular Ensemble Workshop 5 Mandatory
Popular Musicianship 5 Mandatory
Popular Instrumental Studies 5 Group Elective 1
Specialised Pop Performance 1 Group Elective 1

6 Stage 3 / Semester 2

Popular Ensemble Workshop 6 Mandatory
Popular Musicianship 6 Mandatory
Popular Instrumental Studies 6 Group Elective 1
Specialised Pop Performance 2 Group Elective 1

7 Stage 4 / Semester 1

Popular Ensemble Workshop 7 Mandatory
Popular Musicianship 7 Mandatory
Popular Instrumental Studies 7 Group Elective 1
Specialised Pop Performance 3 Group Elective 1

8 Stage 4 / Semester 2

Popular Ensemble Workshop 8 Mandatory
Popular Musicianship 8 Mandatory
Popular Instrumental Studies 8 Group Elective 1
Specialised Pop Performance 4 Group Elective 1

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 15,881.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 15,881.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 15,881.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 15,881.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 63,523.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 777.00 - USD 1,353.00
Food & Groceries USD 2,807.00 - USD 4,491.00
Transport USD 702.00 - USD 1,684.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,404.00 - USD 2,105.00
Estimated Total USD 4,913.00 - USD 8,280.00

Living cost estimates are based on MTU Cork School of Music Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

81%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Corporate Training & DevelopmentDigital Media & Online PublishingEdTech & E-LearningEducation Policy & AdministrationLive Events & ConcertsMedia Research & AnalyticsMuseums & Cultural HeritageMusic & Performing ArtsStreaming & Digital ContentVocational & Technical Training

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Irish National Opera

RTE

Why Study Bachelor of Arts (Honours) Popular Music: Drums at Munster Technological University

What makes this program stand out

Top 20 in UK For Computer Science

Exeter's Computer Science department consistently ranks among the top 20 in the UK for both teaching quality and research output.

Fast Offers Quick turnaround

Exeter typically responds to applications within 2-3 weeks, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Flexible Intakes September start

Primary intake in September with January start available for some pathways through the INTO foundation program.

Accredited Industry recognized

Accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, meeting requirements for Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status.

Life at Munster Technological University in Ireland

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 Bachelor of Arts (Honours) Popular Music: Drums at Munster Technological University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and 40 hours during breaks. No separate work permit is needed, but you must be enrolled in a full-time program.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To fulfill English language requirements, students can take tests like Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE, with specific score thresholds for each. Make sure your scores meet the minimum requirements to be eligible for the program.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as Music Performers, Music Producers, Session Musicians, or Sound Engineers.

What will I actually study in this course?

This program covers various aspects of popular music, including genres such as rock and electronic music. Students will also engage in ensemble work, enhancing their performance skills through collaboration.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Bachelor of Arts (Honours) Popular Music: Drums program starts in September each year. Be sure to apply before the intake month to secure your place.
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