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Studying music degree guide

Music is one of the most important and widely-enjoyed aspects of society and it comes in all sorts of forms, from the chart music we hear on the radio to the classical music that's performed in concert halls and opera houses throughout the world.

Eleanor Foulds
by Eleanor Foulds
Last Updated:
03 Nov 2022

With the arrival of smart devices and streaming sites, music has never been more accessible. Music also plays a really important role within a number of other sectors, like the film, TV, advertising and gaming industries. A degree in this subject will teach you about loads of different aspects of music, including the history of music, music theory, music composition, performance and more. So, if you're passionate about music, this might be the perfect subject choice for you. 

Find music courses. 

What do you need to get on a music degree?  


The ranges of entry requirements for music are as follows:

  • UCAS points: 128–96

  • A-levels: ABB – CCC

  • BTEC Nationals: DDM – MMM

  • International Baccalaureate: 38 – 24

Most unis will ask for an A-level (or equivalent) in music.

What music degrees can you study?


Music degrees are varied and can often include the study of another subject on the side. Degrees in music include:

  • BA Music
  • BA Music and Drama
  • BA Composition for Media, Film and Games
  • BA Music and History
  • BA Music and French
  • BA Music and Philosophy

What topics does a music degree cover?


Common modules for music include:

  • Composition 
  • Creative software skills 
  • History of music 
  • Genres of music 
  • Music industry studies 
  • Musical theory
  • Musical techniques 
  • Performance studies
  • Studio recording

What do you learn studying a music degree?


Studying a music degree will help you gain industry-specific skills like:

  • Recording techniques
  • Performance techniques and skills
  • Music production knowledge
  • Music industry knowledge

More general, transferable skills you’ll pick up include:

  • Innovation
  • Team working
  • Communication
  • Research
  • Attention-to-detail
  • Confidence
  • Working in groups
  • Creative thinking
  • Hand-eye co-ordination
  • Time management
  • Independent working
  • Flexibility
  • Memory

What professional accreditations can you get with a music degree?


Music courses may be accredited by JAMES (Joint Audio Media Education Support), representing the Music Producers' Guild (MPG) and the Association of Professional Recording Studios (APRS). 

What can you do with a music degree?  

There are a number of jobs music graduates can apply to:

Where to study music?

How long is a music degree?


A music degree usually takes three years to study. However, many unis will give the option of a sandwich year (a placement in industry), which will increase the course to four years.

How will you be assessed?


Music courses usually involve assessment through:

  • Exams
  • Coursework
  • Live recitals
  • Pre-recorded performances
  • Written composition

What are the postgraduate opportunities?


Your options for further study include:

  • MA/MPhil/PhD Music
  • MA Composition of Music for Film and Television
  • MA Music Industry Management and Artist Development
  • MA International Music Management
  • MSc Music Industries
  • MA Advanced Music Technology

What alternatives are there to a music degree?


Not sure if a music degree is right for you? Check out these related subjects: