About this course
Make the music you're passionate about in a vibrant, cultural city with a great music scene. This 3-year BA Music degree provides a broad musical education across all forms and styles. You can specialise in areas including music performance, history, composition and technology. You'll then develop all the skills and experience you need for a successful career.
Our students sing opera and music theatre, play funk guitar and classical oboe. No matter what your musical background, we'll provide:
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regular performance and composition workshops, including with guests from the industry
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performance projects with world-renowned performers and recording artists
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up to 20 hours of fully funded individual tuition per year
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ensemble and conducting coaching
As part of this course, you can:
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learn different approaches to musical topics, from the middle ages to global hip hop
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work on projects with other students across classical, pop and jazz
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study concert hall composition, commercial songwriting or film scores
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experience advanced studio techniques, jazz theory and orchestration
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spend a semester studying abroad
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take your music to the local community, with school placements, therapy sessions and workshops
You'll also gain professional career skills. These may include arts administration or managing events.
Our excellent facilities include:
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dedicated rehearsal spaces
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electronic studios
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networked multimedia workstations
Our Turner Sims concert hall supports the most extensive series of professional concerts and workshops of any UK university. You can also perform around the city in a range of different venues.
What's it like to study Music at Southampton
Course location
This course is based at Highfield.
Awarding body
This qualification is awarded by the University of Southampton.
Download the programme specification
The programme specification sets out the learning outcomes of this course and details how the course is taught and assessed.
In light of COVID-19, we’ve made changes to some elements of course delivery for 2020-21. For details as to how this has changed delivery for this course, please view the Addendum to the Programme Specification PDF.
Entry requirements
A-levels
ABB to BBB including Music and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
A-levels additional information
Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking.
*Equivalence to grade 8 is ascertained via audition. This can be done in person or by sending a video. We welcome students onto our programmes who are not at this level if their interests focus on other areas, such as composition, music technology and/or music history and ethnomusicology.
We do not accept Music Technology in lieu of a Music Level 3 qualification (A level, BTEC etc). We can accept a pass in Grade 6 Music Theory where Music is not studied as a Level 3 qualification.
We recognise Music practical and theory exams from ABRSM, Trinity, Rockschool and LCM.
Specific offer is ascertained at interview.
A-levels with Extended Project Qualification
If you are taking an EPQ in addition to 3 A levels, you will receive the following offer in addition to the standard A level offer:
BBB including Music and grade A in the EPQ, and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
A-levels contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all students with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a student’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience.
Students who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme, as follows:
BBC including Music and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
International Baccalaureate Diploma
Pass, with 32 to 30 points overall with 16 to 15 points at Higher Level, including 5 at Higher Level in Music and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
International Baccalaureate Diploma additional information
*Equivalence to grade 8 is ascertained via audition. This can be done in person or by sending a video. We welcome students onto our programmes who are not at this level if their interests focus on other areas, such as composition, music technology and/or music history and ethnomusicology.We do not accept Music Technology in lieu of Music Level 3 qualification (A level, BTEC etc). We can accept a pass in Grade 6 Music Theory where Music is not studied as a Level 3 qualification.We recognise Music practical and theory exams from ABRSM, Trinity, Rockschool and LCM.Specific offer is ascertained at interview.
International Baccalaureate contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
International Baccalaureate Career Programme (IBCP) statement
Offers will be made on the individual Diploma Course subject(s) and the career-related study qualification. The CP core will not form part of the offer. Where there is a subject pre-requisite(s), applicants will be required to study the subject(s) at Higher Level in the Diploma course subject and/or take a specified unit in the career-related study qualification. Applicants may also be asked to achieve a specific grade in those elements.
Please see the University of Southampton International Baccalaureate Career-Related Programme (IBCP) Statement for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
BTEC
Distinction, Distinction, Merit in the BTEC Extended Diploma in Music and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
OR
Distinction, Distinction in the BTEC Extended Diploma plus B in A level Music and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
Distinction, Distinction in the BTEC Diploma in Music plus B in an A level and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
OR
Distinction, Distinction in the BTEC Diploma plus B in A level Music and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
Distinction in the BTEC Subsidiary Diploma in Music plus AB to BB in two A levels and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
OR
Distinction in the BTEC Subsidiary Diploma plus AB to BB to include A level Music and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
BTEC additional information
*Equivalence to grade 8 is ascertained via audition. This can be done in person or by sending a video. We welcome students onto our programmes who are not at this level if their interests focus on other areas, such as composition, music technology and/or music history and ethnomusicology.
We do not accept Music Technology in lieu of Music Level 3 qualification (A level, BTEC etc). We can accept a pass in Grade 6 Music Theory where Music is not studied as a Level 3 qualification.
We recognise Music practical and theory exams from ABRSM, Trinity, Rockschool and LCM.
Specific offer is ascertained at interview.
- Access to HE Diploma
- Irish Leaving Certificate
- Scottish Qualification offers
- Cambridge Pre-U
- Welsh Baccalaureate
- European Baccalaureate
Other requirements
UK students
International students
Other ways to qualify
GCSE requirements
Applicants must hold GCSE English language (or GCSE English) (minimum grade 4/C) and mathematics (minimum grade 4/C)
Non-academic entry requirements
There are no additional requirements
Got a question?
If you're not sure that you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course please contact our enquiries team; we're very happy to help.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.ukTel: +44(0)23 8059 5000
A-levels
ABB to BBB including Music and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
A-levels additional information
Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking.
*Equivalence to grade 8 is ascertained via audition. This can be done in person or by sending a video. We welcome students onto our programmes who are not at this level if their interests focus on other areas, such as composition, music technology and/or music history and ethnomusicology.
We do not accept Music Technology in lieu of a Music Level 3 qualification (A level, BTEC etc). We can accept a pass in Grade 6 Music Theory where Music is not studied as a Level 3 qualification.
We recognise Music practical and theory exams from ABRSM, Trinity, Rockschool and LCM.
Specific offer is ascertained at interview.
A-levels with Extended Project Qualification
If you are taking an EPQ in addition to 3 A levels, you will receive the following offer in addition to the standard A level offer:
BBB including Music and grade A in the EPQ, and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
A-levels contextual offer
Students who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme, as follows:
BBB including Music, and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
International Baccalaureate Diploma
Pass, with 32 to 30 points overall with 16 points at Higher Level, including 5 at Higher Level in Music and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
International Baccalaureate Diploma additional information
*Equivalence to grade 8 is ascertained via audition. This can be done in person or by sending a video. We welcome students onto our programmes who are not at this level if their interests focus on other areas, such as composition, music technology and/or music history and ethnomusicology.
We do not accept Music Technology in lieu of Music Level 3 qualification (A level, BTEC etc). We can accept a pass in Grade 6 Music Theory where Music is not studied as a Level 3 qualification.
We recognise Music practical and theory exams from ABRSM, Trinity, Rockschool and LCM.
Specific offer is ascertained at interview.
Applications where Higher Level subjects have been studied without the full Diploma, will also be considered on a case by case basis.
International Baccalaureate Career Programme (IBCP) statement
Offers will be made on the individual Diploma Course subject(s) and the career-related study qualification. The CP core will not form part of the offer. Where there is a subject pre-requisite(s), applicants will be required to study the subject(s) at Higher Level in the Diploma course subject and/or take a specified unit in the career-related study qualification. Applicants may also be asked to achieve a specific grade in those elements.
Please see the University of Southampton International Baccalaureate Career-Related Programme (IBCP) Statement for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
BTEC
Distinction, Distinction, Merit in the BTEC Extended Diploma in Music and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
OR
Distinction, Distinction in the BTEC Extended Diploma plus B in A level Music and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
Distinction, Distinction in the BTEC Diploma in Music plus B in an A level and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
OR
Distinction, Distinction in the BTEC Diploma plus B in A level Music and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
Distinction in the BTEC Subsidiary Diploma in Music plus AB to BB in two A levels and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
OR
Distinction in the BTEC Subsidiary Diploma plus AB to BB to include A level Music and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
BTEC additional information
*Equivalence to grade 8 is ascertained via audition. This can be done in person or by sending a video. We welcome students onto our programmes who are not at this level if their interests focus on other areas, such as composition, music technology and/or music history and ethnomusicology.
We do not accept Music Technology in lieu of Music Level 3 qualification (A level, BTEC etc). We can accept a pass in Grade 6 Music Theory where Music is not studied as a Level 3 qualification.
We recognise Music practical and theory exams from ABRSM, Trinity, Rockschool and LCM.
Specific offer is ascertained at interview.
- Access to HE Diploma
- Irish Leaving Certificate
- Scottish Qualification offers
- Cambridge Pre-U
- Welsh Baccalaureate
- European Baccalaureate
Other requirements
UK students
International students
Other ways to qualify
GCSE requirements
Applicants must hold GCSE English language (or GCSE English) (minimum grade 4/C) and mathematics (minimum grade 4/C)
Got a question?
If you're not sure that you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course please contact our enquiries team; we're very happy to help.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.ukTel: +44(0)23 8059 5000
Course structure
COVID-19: we've made some changes to the structure of the course for this academic year. Download the programme specification addendum in 'About this course' to learn more.
Year 1 includes compulsory modules and a choice of optional modules. In your second and third years you'll choose from a wide range of options. These include skills-based modules like performance and running workshops.
You'll learn different approaches to study:
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analytical
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musicological
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ethnomusicological (the study of music from the cultural and social aspects of the people who make it)
You can also broaden your experience by selecting:
You do not need to choose your modules when you apply. Your tutor will help you customise your course.
Year 1 overview
In your first year, you'll learn the basics of:
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performance
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composition
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music history
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theory
The compulsory modules will explore the fundamentals of analysis, counterpoint and harmony. You'll also get a broad overview of music from the Renaissance to the twentieth century.
You'll choose from a range of optional modules, including
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solo and ensemble performance
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music technology
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composition
Year 2 overview
You'll choose from a range of optional modules, including topics such as:
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conducting
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composing for films
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studio-based modules
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music therapy and community music
There's a wide range of history and cultural topics to choose, from opera to musical subcultures. You can also take an elective module outside your formal studies, that allows you to gain academic credit.
Year 3 overview
You must choose one of these modules:
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Commercial Composition - you'll work closely with a course tutor to develop a portfolio of original work
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Composition Portfolio - you'll produce a portfolio of score-based, concert compositions
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Performance Recital - a 40-minute public performance recital
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Research Project - this might be musical (historical, analytical, critical) or relate music to another art form such as architecture
You'll also choose from a range of optional modules on topics like:
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Benjamin Britten operas
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music and subculture
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American musicals
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global hip hop
You can also get involved in high-profile performance projects and gain work experience in schools.
Want more detail? See all the modules in the course.
Modules
COVID-19: we've made some changes to our modules for this academic year. Download the programme specification addendum in 'About this course' to learn more.
For entry in Academic Year 2020-21
Year 1
Year 2
Year 3
You must study the following modules in year 1:
You must also choose from the following modules in year 1:
Learning and assessment
COVID-19: we've made some changes to our learning and assessment methods for this academic year. Download the programme specification addendum in 'About this course' to learn more.
The learning activities for this course include the following:
- lectures
- classes and tutorials
- coursework
- individual and group projects
How you'll spend your course time:
Year 1
Year 2
Year 3
Study time
Your scheduled learning, teaching and independent study for year 1:
How we'll assess you
Your assessment breakdown
Year 1:
Academic support
You’ll be supported by a personal academic tutor and have access to a senior tutor.
Course leader
Andrew Pinnock is the course leader.
Careers
Employability is included in our modules from the first lecture to the day you graduate.
Our graduates have moved into music careers including:
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performer
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music therapist
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sound engineer
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composer
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arts and culture manager
This degree can also provide a good foundation for further study.
Our careers and employability service will support you throughout your studies and for up to 3 years after graduation. You'll get help with:
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work placements and graduate jobs
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specialist careers advice
Your personal academic tutor and an employability coordinator can also advise and support you on your career path.
Careers services at Southampton
We are a top 20 UK university for employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2019). Our Careers and Employability Service will support you throughout your time as a student and for up to 5 years after graduation. This support includes:
work experience schemes
CV and interview skills and workshops
networking events
careers fairs attended by top employers
a wealth of volunteering opportunities
study abroad and summer school opportunities
We have a vibrant entrepreneurship culture and our dedicated start-up supporter, Futureworlds, is open to every student.
Work in industry
The University’s Excel Internship Programme can help you find a paid work placement during the Easter or summer vacation.
You can choose to spend a year in employment during this course.
Fees, costs and funding
Tuition fees
Fees for a year's study:
- UK/EU students pay £9,250.
- International students pay £17,560.
What your fees pay for
Students will also need to pay for:
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maintaining and insuring musical instruments
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extra musical tuition or rehearsals
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hiring session musicians
Accommodation and living costs, such as travel and food, are not included in your tuition fees. Explore:
Bursaries, scholarships and other funding
If you're a UK or EU student and your household income is under £25,000 a year, you may be able to get a University of Southampton bursary to help with your living costs. Find out about bursaries and other funding we offer at Southampton.
If you're a care leaver or estranged from your parents, you may be able to get a specific bursary.
Get in touch for advice about student money matters.
Scholarships and grants
You may be able to get a scholarship or grant that's linked to your chosen subject area.
We award scholarships and grants for travel, academic excellence, or to students from underrepresented backgrounds.
Support during your course
The Student Services Centre offers support and advice on money to students. You may be able to access our Student Support fund and other sources of financial support during your course.
Funding for international students
Find out about funding you could get as an international student.
How to apply
When you apply use:
- UCAS course code: W300
- UCAS institution code: S27
What happens after you apply?
We will assess your application on the strength of your:
- predicted grades
- academic achievements
- personal statement
- academic reference
You will be asked for an interview and audition, either remotely or in person. If you want to take performance modules you'll need to show you're proficient to grade 8 or equivalent, either by auditioning or sending a video.
We aim to respond to you within 2 to 6 weeks with a decision about your application.
Equality and diversity
We treat and select everyone in line with our Equality and Diversity Statement.
Got a question?
If you're not sure that you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course please contact our enquiries team; we're very happy to help.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.ukTel: +44(0)23 8059 5000