Foundation Degree in Popular Music

FdA Popular MusicCourse ModulesWhat our Graduates doEntry Requirements

An exciting programme of study over two years for the contemporary rock/pop musician seeking a career in the music industry. Areas of study include performance, song writing/composition, music technology and music business.

The FdA Popular Music programme offers students the opportunity to develop skills and knowledge in relation to performance, song writing/ composition, music technology and the music business. Students will develop a wide range of competencies which will equip them for entry into the popular music industry or for further study.

There is a strong vocational bias and a high level of relevance to current practice in the popular music industry which will help students to become practitioners who are confident and proficient performers, able to create original music and use current technologies successfully in music making. There is also an emphasis on music business studies providing knowledge, skills and experience which will help students to manage their own business affairs effectively. Work experience is a central element of the course providing students with the opportunity to plan and develop a career through practical experience.

The thing I enjoyed most… was performance workshop, as I feel it really helped me to develop as a performer and also challenged me to be creative for assessments. I also greatly enjoyed the recording module as it taught me lots and lots of techniques which have proven to be incredibly useful since leaving the course and have had a large impact on my skill level as a recording engineer. Other areas I really enjoyed were musicianship and music in the media as they both offered me the chance to be really creative.


FdA Popular Music Modules offered:

Year One

• Musical Skills and Development 1


• Introduction to Song Writing


• Contextual Studies in Popular Music


• Recording and Digital Production Techniques


• Earning a Living in Music


• Professional Practice 1

Year Two

• Musical Skills and Development 2


• The Self-Employed Musician


• Professional Practice 2


• Rock, Pop and Related Genres


• Music for Media

Optional modules:

• Contemporary Songwriting and Arranging


• Advanced Creative Production


• Digital Processing in Composition

Graduates can develop self-employment opportunities or gain employment in relation to a wide range of professional activities including performance, song writing/composition, recording/music technology, music business and teaching. Roles have included performer, composer, teacher, manager, music technologist.

Successful completion of the Foundation Degree in Popular Music allows for progression to year three of the BA (Hons) in Popular Music. Further progression is possible at MA level and higher, or to PGCE courses for entry into the teaching profession.

Normally a minimum of 80 UCAS points. An appropriate level of practical performance skill and experience (instrumental or vocal) is required. Entry is normally by audition/interview which will include instrumental or vocal performance and consideration of previous experience. Overseas candidates may submit recordings and other evidence.