University of South Wales United Kingdom

MA Songwriting and Production

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 1 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The MA Songwriting and Production at the University of South Wales is designed for aspiring musicians and producers aiming to refine their artistic voice and master the craft of creating and producing original music. You will delve into the intricacies of song structure, melodic and harmonic development, lyric writing, and contemporary production techniques, preparing you for the dynamic music industry. This postgraduate degree fosters creativity and technical skill, encouraging you to develop a distinctive artistic identity and a comprehensive understanding of the songwriting and production process.

This intensive, full-time MA is studied on campus over one year, immersing you in a practical, project-driven environment. You will engage in weekly workshops, collaborate on 'live' briefs with industry professionals, and gain hands-on experience in audio and MIDI recording, editing, mixing, and mastering within modern studio facilities. Your major project will be a significant portfolio piece, reviewed by industry figures, preparing you for diverse career paths in music creation, production, and the broader creative industries.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Master of Arts program in Songwriting and Production offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to develop your creative and technical skills. You will explore fundamental songwriting techniques, engage in collaborative writing processes, and gain proficiency in digital music production and recording. The program also emphasizes performance, entrepreneurial skills within the music industry, and culminates in a major project.

1 Year 1 / Semester 1

Songwriting 1: Skills and Strategies
Songwriting 2: Creative Co-writing
Digital Music Production
Recording
Performance: Practice and Presentation
Creative and Cultural Entrepreneurship
Getting Down to Business: Songwriting and the Music Industry
Major Project

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

14% off
First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 20,838.00 USD 24,195.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 20,838.00 USD 24,195.00

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 SalesAmusement & Recreation ServicesAnimation & Visual EffectsDigital Media & Online PublishingGaming & Interactive MediaMedia Research & AnalyticsMuseums & Cultural HeritageSports & AthleticsTalent & Artist ManagementTheme Parks & Leisure

Top Employers Hiring for this course

BBC Studios

Why Study MA Songwriting and Production 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 MA Songwriting and Production at University of South Wales

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time for degree courses, and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is required, but part-time students cannot work.

What English language score do I need for this course?

For TOEFL, you'll need a minimum overall score of 72 with specific listening, reading, speaking, and writing requirements. Alternatively, IELTS and PTE scores are accepted, each with their own set of listening, reading, speaking, and writing benchmarks.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as songwriters, music producers, sound engineers, or studio managers.

What will I actually study in this course?

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

The MA Songwriting and Production course is delivered in the context of a thriving contemporary music and cultural scene in Wales. This innovative Songwriting and Production programme will inspire you to develop your own artistic voice, and make serious connections within the world of songwriting. 

As well as offering numerous opportunities for collaboration,

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The MA Songwriting and Production course begins in September. Ensure you apply in advance to secure your place in this vibrant program.
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
 
Account
  • New student?

Search for universities & courses

ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️