Composition

Composition at Brunel University London is a dynamic and innovative undergraduate program designed for students passionate about developing their skills in music composition, sound design, and auditory storytelling. This course provides a comprehensive education in the art and craft of composing for a variety of media, including film, television, video games, and live performance. Students will explore a wide range of musical genres and techniques, gaining practical experience in writing, arranging, and producing music that effectively communicates emotional and narrative content. The programme emphasizes both technical proficiency and creative innovation, encouraging students to experiment with new sounds, technologies, and compositional approaches. Throughout their studies, students will have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including computer labs equipped with industry-standard software, recording studios, and dedicated composition suites. The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, incorporating modules on music theory, harmony, orchestration, digital audio workstation skills, and music technology. Students will also develop essential skills in critical listening, music analysis, and collaborative working through projects and group assignments. The course fosters a vibrant academic and artistic environment, with opportunities for live performances, workshops, and industry placements that enhance employability and professional development. Graduates of the Composition programme are equipped to pursue careers as composers, sound designers, music producers, or continue their academic journey in postgraduate studies. Brunel's strong links with the creative industries ensure students gain insights into current industry practices and receive support for networking and career progression. With a focus on originality, technical skill, and industry relevance, the Composition programme prepares students to make meaningful contributions to the evolving landscape of contemporary music and media.

Detailed Course Facts

• GBP 9000 Year (EEA)
• GBP 13000 Year (Non-EEA)

• English

Course Content

The degree course is modular. Modules are worth 20 or 40 credits and you must complete 120 credits for each year of your degree programme. All music students take the same modules in Year 1 (Performance I can be taken in a variety of ways and does not necessarily require a solo performance). In years 2 and 3 you will have a wide range of optional modules to choose from; some of these topics can be taken at either Level 2 or Level 3. The final year project requires you to carry out in-depth research on a topic of particular interest to you - many composition students choose a composition project for this.

Typical Modules

Level 1

• Composition I (20)

• Musicianship (20)

• Materials of Music (20)

• Musicology I: histories, forms and structures (20)

• Sound Recording & Sonic Arts (20)

• Performance I (20)

Level 2 Core

• Composition II (20)

Level 2 Options

• Musicology II: genres (20)

• Performance II (Classical or Experimental) (20)

• Performance II (Popular Music or Jazz) (20)

• Sonic Arts II (40)

• Conducting and Realisation (20)

• Instrumentation and Orchestration (20)

• Music and Perception (20)

• Popular Music Studies (20)

• Stylistic Improvisation (20)

• Free Improvisation (20)

• Jazz and Pop arranging (20)

• Professional Development (20)

Level 3 Core

• Composition III (40)

• Special Project (40)

Level 3 Options

• Musicology III: towards the new music (40)

• Performance III (Classical or Experimental) (40)

• Performance III (Popular Music or Jazz) (40)

• Sonic Arts III (40)

• Conducting and Realisation (20)

• Instrumentation and Orchestration (20)

• Music and Perception (20)

• Popular Music Studies (20)

• Stylistic Improvisation (20)

• Free Improvisation (20)

• Jazz and Pop arranging (20)

• Professional Development (20)

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6.5

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

• GCE A-level BBB, including A-level Music at grade B

• BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma DDM in a related subject.

• BTEC Level 3 Diploma DD in a related subject with an A-Level at grade B.

• BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma D in a related subject with A-Levels grade BB.

• International Baccalaureate Diploma 32 points in Higher Level 5 in Music.

• Access to Higher EducationDiploma Complete and pass a related subject Access course with 45 credits at level 3 and 15 credits at level 2 with Merits in all units. Applicants who are not taking A-Level music or grade 7/8 music but are musically inclined may be asked to take a short test.

All candidates without A-level Music at grade B or equivalent or Grade 8 ABRSM, LCMM or Trinity College will be required to pass a brief entrance test, details of which will be provided upon application.

GCSE Mathematics grade C and GCSE English grade C are also required.

Please check our Admissions pages for more information on other factors we use to assess applicants as well as our full GCSE requirements and accepted equivalencies in place of GCSE’s.

English Language Requirements

• IELTS: 6.5 (min 5.5 in all areas)

• Pearson: 58 (51 in all subscores)

• BrunELT: 65% (min 55% in all areas)

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than Brunel University.

Composition at Brunel University London offers students a comprehensive education in the art of music composition, blending traditional techniques with innovative approaches to foster creativity and technical skill. The program is designed to develop students' abilities in writing music across a variety of genres and mediums, including classical, film, television, and new media. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including dedicated composition studios, recording suites, and computer music labs equipped with industry-standard software such as Logic Pro, Ableton Live, and Finale.

Throughout the course, students are encouraged to experiment and push the boundaries of musical expression. They receive personalized guidance from experienced composers and staff members who are active in the music industry, providing mentorship and industry insights. The program emphasizes the importance of understanding music theory, instrumentation, and technology, ensuring graduates are well-versed in the practical and theoretical aspects of composition.

Brunel's Composition program also offers opportunities for students to collaborate with other arts disciplines, such as film production and digital media, enhancing their versatility and employability. The program's assessments include performances, recordings, and presentations, culminating in a final portfolio or composition project.

Students benefit from Brunel's strong connections with the creative industries, enabling placements, workshops, and talks by visiting professionals. The university's location in London offers additional opportunities to attend concerts, festivals, and networking events within the vibrant music and arts scene. Graduates of the program are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and professional experience necessary to pursue careers as composers, sound designers, music producers, or to continue further studies in music. The curriculum is regularly reviewed to keep pace with technological advances and industry developments, ensuring students receive a relevant and rigorous education in composition.