BSc (Hons) Popular 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 BSc (Hons) Popular Music Production with foundation year at Southampton Solent University is your gateway into the dynamic world of modern music creation and industry. This programme is designed for aspiring producers, engineers, and music entrepreneurs who want to develop a comprehensive understanding of digital music production, studio recording techniques, and the broader music business landscape. You will explore sound synthesis, audio manipulation, and industry-standard digital audio workstations, gaining the foundational knowledge and practical skills necessary to thrive in a competitive creative sector. This full-time, four-year undergraduate degree, studied on campus, offers a structured learning journey.

You will progress from introductory modules in musicianship and music industries to advanced studio recording, creative sound design, and live music production. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on experience, including a major project in your final year where you can pursue an area of personal interest. You will graduate with a robust portfolio, a deep understanding of music production technologies, and the confidence to launch your career in the vibrant music industry. This course is studied full-time on campus over four years.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program provides a comprehensive foundation in popular music production, beginning with introductory modules in digital music, production, musicianship, and the music industries. Students will progress to explore core principles of sound, studio recording techniques, and creative music industries, alongside sampling, synthesis, and MIDI. Advanced study encompasses sophisticated studio recording, creative sound design, live music production, and career development, with opportunities to specialize in areas such as advanced live production, music for games, surround mixing, or experimental production. The curriculum culminates in a major project and advanced production work, preparing graduates for diverse roles within the music sector.

1 Foundation year

Digital Music (Introduction)
Popular Music Production (Introduction)
Musicianship
Music Industries
Music in Context
Major Project

2 Year one

Principles of Sound
Introduction to Studio Recording 1
Principles of Music
Introduction to Studio Recording 2
Creative Music Industries
Sampling Synthesis and Midi

3 Year two

Advanced Studio Recording 1
Advanced Studio Recording 2
Creative Sound Design
Live Music Production
Music Portfolio Careers

4 Optional modules

Advanced Live Music Production
Music and Sound for Games

5 Final year

Major Project
Advanced Music Production
Live Project Brief

6 Optional modules

Surround Mixing
Live Event Technology
Live Sound Technologies
Experimental Music Production

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,810.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,810.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,810.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,810.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 99,243.00

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

Advertising & Media SalesAutomation & RoboticsBrokerage & Trading & SecuritiesCreative Production & Project ManagementEvent & Experiential MarketingPhotojournalism & Visual MediaPublic Broadcasting & DocumentaryQuality Control & AssuranceTax & Legal ComplianceTheme Parks & Leisure

Top Employers Hiring for this course

British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)

Ikea

Sky Group

Why Study BSc (Hons) Popular Music Production with foundation year 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 BSc (Hons) Popular Music Production with foundation year at Southampton Solent University

Can I work while studying?

You can work up to 20 hours per week while studying. However, if you're on a Student visa for a part-time course, you won't be allowed to work.

Is this qualification recognised internationally?

Please confirm accreditation details directly with the institution.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet the English language requirements, you need an IELTS score with a minimum overall score of 6.0 and specific scores in listening, reading, speaking, and writing.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue roles like music producer, sound engineer, audio technician, music entrepreneur, or live production manager.

What will I actually study in this course?

This program covers essential topics such as digital music production and studio recording techniques. You'll gain hands-on experience and develop a robust portfolio through various projects.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

You can start the BSc (Hons) Popular Music Production with foundation year in January, April, or September. Choose the intake that best fits your schedule.
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