First Diploma in Music

First Diploma in Music is aimed at students who perform and/or produce music and are looking to further their musical studies and experiences in a variety of ways. It offers the opportunity to gain a wide range of musical skills including:

• Performance
• Music Theory
• Music Production (Recording and Sequencing)
• Music Business

Entry Requirements

4 GCSEs at grade G or above (or equivalent), successful interview and satisfactory reference. In addition:

• For students who choose to follow the performance-based pathway they will be required to supply their own instrument - at interview you will be expected to demonstrate your performance skills through an informal audition.
• For Technology students, a CD of recent work will be required.

International Entry Requirements:

High School Leaving Certificate D-G grades or other related comparable qualifications. Satisfactory reference, audition if student is in the UK, video accepted from students overseas. IELTS 5.0 or an equivalent English Language Certificate

Course Duration

1 year, full time

Content

All Performance students have the opportunity to perform incorporating a selection of musical styles and various ensembles. Students have the opportunity to use technology in the College's Recording Studios and MIDI sequencing room. 

Assessment is made through on-going coursework assignments.

To complete and pass the course, students must pass the following modules - following one of the two different pathways:

Progression

Students who successfully complete the course to merit standard gain entry to one of the National Diplomas offered at the College (subject to satisfactory reference and interview). However, some students progress directly onto a career in the music industry. This course provides a wealth of opportunities for developing transferable skills and hopefully students will find employment in a wide range of career areas where musical competence and technical knowledge, combined with an understanding of the industry, are seen as vital employee characteristics.

Additional Information

Students have the opportunity to work in our BigHead Studio complex as part of their study.