Popular Music, Songwriting and Performance BA (Hons)
University of Central Lancashire
Student rating
This is the overall rating calculated by averaging all live reviews for this uni on Whatuni.
( 4.2) View reviews

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Different course options
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Qualification

Bachelor of Arts (with Honours) - BA (Hons)

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Location

Spirit Studios

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Study mode

Full Time

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Start date

SEP-25

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Duration

3 Years

Course info

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Qualification

Bachelor of Arts (with Honours) - BA (Hons)

Location

Spirit Studios

Study mode

Full Time

Start date

SEP-25

Duration

3 Years

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Subjects

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Music
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Exam type

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A level
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UCAS Tariff
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Access to HE Diploma
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Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (first teaching from September 2016)
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Course info

From songwriting to the stage, producing tracks in the studio, to branding and marketing, this comprehensive course covers everything youll need to excel as a versatile artist in the modern music industry. Our brand new Popular Music, Songwriting and Performance course brings together theory and practice, allowing you to explore music creation and production, songwriting and stagecraft, while gaining a solid understanding of how the music business works. Youll learn the fundamentals of music ...Read more

From songwriting to the stage, producing tracks in the studio, to branding and marketing, this comprehensive course covers everything youll need to excel as a versatile artist in the modern music industry. Our brand new Popular Music, Songwriting and Performance course brings together theory and practice, allowing you to explore music creation and production, songwriting and stagecraft, while gaining a solid understanding of how the music business works. Youll learn the fundamentals of music theory and analysis, exploring various genres, styles and approaches in popular composition and songwriting. Youll gain hands-on experience with our industry-standard facilities and equipment in our venue and studios, learning current trends and techniques in live performance and music production. Youll gain an in-depth understanding of the intricacies of the music industry, helping you develop strategies to promote yourself and your music. Whether youre an artist looking to develop your own style, a producer wanting to record songs to a professional standard, or a songwriter looking to work with other artists, this course will equip you with the practical skills, knowledge and creativity to break into the industry.


About Spirit Studios

Spanning over four decades of iconic music history in Manchester, our early days as a commercial recording studio and rehearsal space saw the likes of local legends The Smiths, The Stone Roses, Happy Mondays, Simply Red and many more passing through our doors. Spirit Studios then became the first music production and sound engineering school in the UK (formerly known as School of Sound Recording), and since then weve continued to nurture the next generation of producers, engineers, artists and business owners. Our purpose-built facilities, expert insight, professionally active tutors and creative partnerships enable us to offer the most up to date and relevant training and provide you with real career opportunities.


Assessment method

We pride ourselves on providing a variety of assessment methods these are balanced between industry standards and an academic range that is aimed at varied student profiles and abilities. Some modules may include an overall portfolio, others may have several varied assessments that encompass practical and written elements. Students may work on a solo project or also have the opportunity to work collaboratively in class or within external partnerships. All portfolios and written material are submitted electronically via the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE), practical exams are undertaken within studio or venue settings on a live basis. Feedback is delivered electronically directly to the student in a written and matrix format. There is an opportunity to discuss your feedback in a one-to-one tutorial. We use a variety of the following assessment methods: ● Portfolios● Practical coursework● Practical Exams● Presentations● Written Tests● Written Reports● Written Essays● Professional Discussions● Viva Voce

Key stats

WUSCA ranking:
WUSCA student ranking
These are the 2024 rankings, based on ratings given by past and current students.
26/101
CUG Subject Ranking
CUG Subject Ranking
Source: Complete University Guide 2025
74th
CUG Ranking
CUG Ranking
Source: Complete University Guide 2025
87th
What students say
M
Miguel
06 Feb 24

The environment is excellent, and different buildings are located at the best locations for students to engage with each other and feel part of a community. Facilities and..Read more

Modules

Modules (Year 1)
Modules (Year 2)
Modules (Year 3)
IDP Connect

Entry requirements

Exam type

A level

A level:

Not currently available, please contact university for up to date information.

UCAS Tariff:

64 Grades / Points required

Access to HE Diploma:

Not currently available, please contact university for up to date information.

Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (first teaching from September 2016):

MPP Grades / Points required

64 points at A2.

64 UCAS points at A2 or equivalent.

64 points from Access to HE course.

Not currently available, please contact university for up to date information.

Latest reviews

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M
Miguel
06 Feb 24
Electronic Music Production and Performance BA (Hons)
The environment is excellent, and different buildings are located at the best locations for students to engage with each other and feel part of a community. Facilities and...
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Uni info

University of Central Lancashire
University of Central Lancashire , Preston

The University of Central Lancashire is an international university that offers students progressive, modern learning pathways....

Student rating
( 4.2) View reviews
CUG ranking
87th
University of Central Lancashire
65-69 Downing Street Manchester M1 7JE United Kingdom
Nearest train station: Manchester Piccadilly  0.1 miles away
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