Music Technology and Sound Design Foundation Degree (FdA) (Full or Part Time)

Music Technology and Sound Design Foundation Degree (FdA) (Full or Part Time)
Foundation Degree (Levels 4 and 5)

Programme Code: ATHFD
Awarding Body: Subject to Validation
Related Programme Areas: PERFORMING ARTS
MUSIC TECHNOLOGY
HIGHER EDUCATION

Who is the programme for? The programme is designed for students with a genuine interest in the field of contemporary music and production technology. It will enable you to develop your knowledge and skills to secure work in the industry or to progress to a higher level of study e.g. an Honours Degree. The programme is appropriate for students over 18 years of age looking to develop their creative and technical skills.

What will I study? The Foundation Degree has been designed in consultation with local and regional employers and in response to the changing needs of the industry. The programme gives you the opportunity to develop your academic knowledge, practical, technical, analytical, transferable and work based skills in the field of music technology and audio engineering. The programme is divided into two levels with a number of modules at each level. As a full time student you would take level 1 modules during the first year and level 2 modules during the second year. The modules each have a credit rating. For successful progression from level 1 to level 2 you will need to achieve 120 credits and a further 120 credits at level 2 to achieve the qualification. As a part time student we would recommend that you take a minimum of 80 credits per year. Level 1 Modules include: - Personal Academic Development Studio Applications and Acoustic Design Virtual Studio and MIDI Systems Control Music Theory and Practice Live Sound Techniques Level 2 Modules Include: - Research Techniques Work Based Learning Recording and Production Techniques Multimedia and Audio Post Production Contextual and Contemporary Studies. Level 2 modules will expect you to become more independent in your learning. Individual audio portfolio work is a key element of the programme. Accreditation of prior certificated and uncertificated learning is available for students with appropriate levels of qualifications and/or experience. If you think you may be eligible for AP(E)L please tell us on application and/or interview. Cost per credit for uncertificated learning is 9.00.

Entry to the Programme?

How is it assessed? You will be assessed both individually and as a member of a team. There are a number of assessment methods including practical and research based coursework assignments, the giving of seminar presentations, portfolio submissions, examinations, report writing, demonstrations and practical project work. At the beginning of each semester you will be issued with a module handbook that details the assessments for that period. This will help you to plan your workload and manage your time.

Future prospects? The programme will provide a platform for entry into the Music Technology industry or to continuing Higher Education at honours degree level. This programme is validated by Huddersfield University, and students successfully achieving the Foundation Degree gaining a pass with distinction may progress onto the final year of a BA (Hons) Music, Technology and Sound Design at the University.

When will the programme start? The programme will start in September 2010.

How long will it take? The programme is available as full and part time study. Full time study will take two years. Part time three to four years. There will be two 15 week semesters per academic year i.e. September to December and January to May. For full time students there is an expected attendance of 16 hours per week. Part time students will need to negotiate attendance per week with the Programme Leader.

What about the Money? St Helens College is committed to providing value for money higher education programmes, therefore programme fees for Honours Degrees and Foundation Degrees for 2010/11 will be 2,100* per year for full time programmes.

How do I apply? Application for the full time route is made through UCAS. However mature students may apply directly to the College in the first instance but will eventually apply through UCAS. Part time students should apply directly to the College.

Campus Address: Town Centre Campus

Entry Requirements
All applications will be considered. You must be aged 18 by August 31st in the year of entry. You will need to have studied at A/AS, AVCE, Nat Dip, GNVQ Adv Level for a minimum of 2 years and will be expected to have achieved either an overall pass grade or a UCAS tariff of a minimum of 120 points in an appropriate subject/s. Achievement of Key Skill points will be considered. Entry from the following routes is also acceptable i.e. Access to HE, HNC, Professional Qualifications, NVQ Level 3 or above. Applications from motivated mature students will be welcomed.