Music Technology

Music Technology Foundation Degree (FdA) Level 5 (full-time)

The Foundation Degree in Music Technology is a two-year degree-level course, designed to prepare you for employment in the music industry. It is a vocational course consisting of practical-based units of study, all of which relate directly to real industry practice. As well as the main qualification, you will also have an opportunity to gain globally-recognised certification in industry-standard music production software, and you will learn in an environment that encourages a focus on industry-related skills.

Coming from a musical background and with a passion for playing Indian percussion instruments, studying music was an obvious choice for Mehool. He studied Level 2 and Level 3 Music Technology at Bedford College after leaving school and then moved on to the Foundation Degree.

“I looked at going to sixth form after my GCSEs, but the facilities at Bedford College were so much better than anywhere else locally. The tutors were very helpful and pushed you to do your best, even though I had to adjust from using Windows to Apple with the College’s industry standard equipment!”.

Mehool not only learnt all the theory and practical skills during his time at College, he also discovered his ‘signature’ sound while working on his major project. “We had to produce our own album from scratch, which allowed us to be very creative. Mine was called ‘East Meets West’ and is a blend of Indian heritage and Hip Hop, Dance and House styles. I also really enjoyed the Music & Media unit, which is all about composing music for commercial purposes such as TV adverts”.

Mehool is already working with some artists under a small record label and his next steps are to top up his qualification to a full degree at the University of West London and eventually become a record producer.

Mehool - Music Technology Foundation Degree

Entry requirements

You will need:

48 UCAS points with 32 points from one A-Level qualification OR
48 UCAS points from Music Technology BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma OR
Equivalent Level 3 qualification.

We welcome applications from mature students via a successful interview and a demonstration of vocational experience if you do not meet the criteria stated.

Entry is subject to a successful interview, either face to face or via Skype/telephone. Practical examples will need to be sent before the interview and this should be arranged with the interviewer. You will be required to produce a portfolio of work showing a broad range of experience in music technology (recording, sequencing, performing).

Course content

During the course you will cover topics including:

Year 1

Recording and Mixing
Music Software
Context and Listening
The Business of Music Technology.

Year 2

21st Century Production Techniques
Production Styles
Music and Media
Major Project
The Business of Music Production.

You will also be commissioned directly by our industry partners as part of the assignments you will undertake.

Assessment methods

Assessment will take the form of assessed practical work, written evaluations or presentations. Teaching methods include practical workshops, lectures, tutorials, seminars and group/individual support.

Further study and career options

You can progress straight on to the third year of a course delivered at the University of Bedfordshire, to achieve a BA Music Technology degree. This course will also give you the skills you need to start a career in the music industry; for example in creative music production, recording, entertainment and new media.

Additional information

During the course you will need to attend College two to three days a week. Additional study will be required outside College, and we also provide access to facilities outside normal timetable hours.

On this course, you will also be able to establish links with Media Junction which is run by the University of Bedfordshire and aims to enhance the student experience by creating opportunities for students to network with each other, across degree pathways in order to make films and create media content. The initiative is designed to allow students to better understand how freelance work and networking is a staple of the creative industries.

To enrol on this course you must apply through the University & Colleges Admission Service (UCAS) using the institution code BEDF B23 and the course code W370. Visit www.ucas.com or call us on 01234 291000 for more information.

Course Information & How to Apply

You will need to complete a UCAS online application form to apply for this course, available at www.ucas.com. The codes needed are located in the 'Additional information' section above. Please call the College on 01234 291000 if you have any queries about your application.