Commercial Music Technology - Foundation Degree (FdSc)

For further information, please contact Mid-Cheshire College on 01606 74444 or via email info@midchesh.ac.uk

Who is the programme for?

The programme is for those who would like to develop a professional career in the music industry. During the course you will use the College’s state-of-the-art facilities including sound recording studios and the knowledge of professional staff to develop, realise and market a commercially viable music product.

How long does it take to complete?

This programme runs for 2 years full time - 3-4 years part-time.

What qualifications do I need?

Students need to have 3 GCSEs at grade C or above, plus a minimum of 120 UCAS points from any of the following programmes:

• BTEC Extended Diploma/Certificate/Award
• A/S - A Levels
• AVCE

Alternatively an NVQ Level 3 or equivalent or a Pass in an appropriate kite-marked Access to Higher Education course.

Students will be expected to have previously studied Music Technology/Music with use of technology, or have sufficient experience in the area. You may be required to present a portfolio of work (range of recordings) that demonstrates your musical and technical ability.

Where possible an academic or vocational reference will be required to ensure suitability for this level of programme.

Students who do not meet the above admissions requirements will be considered for entry if they can demonstrate that they have the relevant vocational experience, motivation and personal qualities appropriate for Foundation Degree level work.

What is the programme structure?

Level 4 Units:
• Music Industry
• Sound Recording and Sequencing
• Live Industry
• Production – Concept and Realisation

Level 5 Units:
• Strategic Professional Development
• Entrepreneurship, Marketing and Artistic Promotion
• Creative Sound Design and Multimedia Production
• Professional Product Realisation
• Commercial Music in Context

What does it include?

On this programme you will develop core knowledge and skills in recording, sequencing and production to a professional standard. Success in this competitive industry requires more than straightforward technical ability however, and this is why you will learn to evaluate your work in both artistic and commercial terms. Knowledge of the music industry as it currently exists is also essential if you are to successfully promote yourself and your music, and this forms a key element of the course.

The music department is staffed by tutors with a wealth of industry experience and who are also professional musicians and producers. This course will equip you with skills relevant to the music industry, live sound, recording, broadcast and creative media industries.

Functional Skills

Functional Skills are not required for this course.

Are there any special facilities for the programme?

The College has 3 professional recording studios, including a dedicated Foundation Degree Studio, which is equipped with a Pro Tools 9 System, and Allen & Heath GSR24 Console, a variety of outboard and plugin processors and 2 live areas. There are also a number of “project” studios, a teaching laboratory with 22 workstations, a range of high quality mics and students can book studios out for their own projects. Students have access to all computers, which are Apple Macs running Logic Pro, and we also have a number of ProTools systems. The College has its own in-house record label, Inclusive Records (www.inclusiverecords.com), providing students with an outlet for their work, and an opportunity to gain hands on experience in organising and promoting a release.

How is the programme assessed?

This programme will be assessed by a combination of methods e.g. music production portfolios, practical tests, viva examinations, industry presentations and self, peer and tutor assessed assignments. Assessment is at the end of each module with progressional assessment at the end of each year.

Will there be any extra costs involved?

Students will be required to provide their own instruments where appropriate and be expected to buy electronic data storage as required.

What if I need support?
The College provides a range of learning support for students who like extra help with their studies. If you need help in deciding what to study or information on travel, finance, childcare, personal or health concerns, contact the Students Services desk.

What award will I achieve?

Foundation Degree (FdSc) Commercial Music Technology

Examining/Validating Body

University of Chester

What can I do next?

Students will have the opportunity to apply to progress on to the second or final year of an honours degree in a related area at any university. Students will have the opportunity to progress on to the third and final year of the following Honours Degree programme: BA (Hons) Commercial Music Production at the University of Chester (http://www.chester.ac.uk). Students can also progress into employment in the music industry and pursue careers in areas such as music recording and production, music business related positions, music management, professional audio, education, media and communications.

Equal Opportunities

Mid Cheshire College is committed to the implementation of a policy to achieve equality of opportunity for all staff, students and members of the community it serves. In doing so the College will actively work to achieve equality regardless of age, race, skin colour, disability, gender, marital status, sexuality and faith.

How do I get further information?

Contact the college on 01606 74444, visit the website www.midchesh.ac.uk or email info@midchesh.ac.uk