BA (Hons) Music

The BA (Hons) Music programme at Kingston University offers students a comprehensive and dynamic education in the field of music, blending theoretical knowledge with practical skills. Designed to develop both creative artistry and academic understanding, this course provides a diverse mix of modules covering music performance, composition, music technology, and musicology. Students have the opportunity to engage in a variety of musical styles and genres, ranging from classical to contemporary, ensuring a well-rounded musical education. The programme emphasizes hands-on experience, encouraging students to participate in live performances, recordings, and collaborations with other departments and external organizations. Students gain proficiency in music software, recording techniques, and production skills, preparing them for careers in the music industry, media, education, or further postgraduate study. The course benefits from Kingston University’s state-of-the-art facilities, including recording studios, practice rooms, and a dedicated music performance space. With an experienced faculty comprising professional musicians, composers, and music researchers, students receive personalized guidance and mentorship throughout their studies. Apart from core modules, students are encouraged to pursue their individual interests through optional units and projects, fostering innovation and self-expression. The programme also offers opportunities for work placements and internships, providing valuable industry insights and professional networks. Graduates of the BA (Hons) Music programme are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to pursue a variety of careers in the music sector or to continue their education at postgraduate level. The course’s flexible structure and supportive environment aim to nurture creative talent and prepare students to make meaningful contributions to the evolving world of music.

The Bachelor of Music at Kingston University offers students an immersive and comprehensive education in the field of music, designed to develop both their practical skills and theoretical understanding. The programme covers a wide range of musical disciplines, including performance, composition, music technology, analysis, and musicology, providing a well-rounded academic experience. Students have the opportunity to engage in individual and ensemble performance, honing their technical abilities and stage presence, while also exploring innovative approaches to music creation and production. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking and analytical skills, encouraging students to examine musical works from historical, cultural, and contextual perspectives.

Throughout the course, students benefit from access to state-of-the-art facilities, including dedicated practice rooms, recording studios, and performance spaces, which support their artistic development. The programme integrates contemporary music practices with traditional techniques, fostering versatility and adaptability in the evolving music industry. In addition to core modules, students can choose specialist options aligned with their interests, such as electronic music, jazz improvisation, or world music. This allows for a tailored educational experience that prepares graduates for diverse careers within the music sector.

The university actively promotes industry engagement through guest lectures, workshops, and collaboration projects with professional musicians and organizations. This exposure helps students to build valuable networks and gain practical insights into the music business, performance careers, and creative industries. The programme also encourages personal development, teamwork, and leadership skills, equipping students to succeed in competitive environments. Assessment methods are varied, including performances, portfolios, written essays, and presentations, designed to assess a wide range of skills and knowledge.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Music programme from Kingston University are well-equipped to pursue careers in performance, music education, composition, production, research, or to continue their studies at postgraduate level. The programme’s focus on both academic rigour and practical experience ensures that students leave with a strong professional foundation, creative confidence, and the skills necessary to thrive in the dynamic world of music.

A minimum of 120 credits is required to complete the Music degree programme at Kingston University. The programme is designed to develop students’ practical, theoretical, and critical understanding of music across a range of contexts. Entry requirements typically include an academic background in music or a related subject, with applicants expected to demonstrate a good standard of instrumental or vocal ability. Students are encouraged to engage with a variety of musical genres and disciplines, including performance, composition, musicology, and music technology. The curriculum includes core modules such as Music Theory and Practice, Historical and Cultural Contexts of Music, Composition Techniques, and Performance Skills. In addition, students have the opportunity to specialise in areas like jazz, contemporary music, classical performance, or sound engineering. The programme emphasizes practical application, with a significant portion of assessment based on performance examinations, composition portfolios, and coursework essays. There are also optional modules that allow students to tailor their studies according to personal interests, such as Music Industry Studies, Music and Society, or Digital Music Production. Successful completion of the programme requires a combination of coursework assignments, project work, exams, and a final year dissertation or major performance project. The course aims to prepare graduates for careers in music performance, teaching, composition, music industry roles, or further postgraduate study. Collaboration with local arts organizations and participation in live performances are integral to the programme, providing real-world experience and professional development opportunities. The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, workshops, practical sessions, and individual tutor support, fostering both independent learning and team collaboration. It is designed to meet the standards of professional music practice and to equip students with the skills necessary to succeed in the competitive music industry or academia.

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.

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The Music degree program at Kingston University offers diverse financing options to support students throughout their studies. Prospective students can explore various sources of financial support, including government funding, scholarships, bursaries, and private loans. The university provides detailed guidance on tuition fee costs, which vary depending on the chosen course and mode of study (full-time or part-time). International students are encouraged to investigate visa-related funding opportunities and international scholarships designed to assist with living expenses and tuition fees.

Funding is available through government schemes such as the Student Finance England for eligible UK residents, which covers tuition fees and provides maintenance loans to help with living costs. For postgraduate students, there are specific loan options and financial aid packages tailored to support continued education. Kingston University also offers a range of scholarships and bursaries, some of which are merit-based, while others support students from specific regions or backgrounds. These awards can significantly reduce the financial burden associated with higher education, making it more accessible to a diverse student body.

In addition to scholarships and government funding, students may consider private financing options, including personal loans and sponsorships from external organizations or industry partners. The university’s financial aid office provides comprehensive advice and assistance in navigating these options, including application procedures and eligibility requirements. Furthermore, part-time work opportunities on campus, in accordance with visa regulations for international students, are available to supplement income and gain relevant experience.

Students are encouraged to plan their finances thoroughly before commencing their studies, taking into account tuition costs, accommodation, living expenses, and study materials. Kingston University’s dedicated financial planning resources and advisors are available to assist students in creating personalized budget plans, ensuring they can focus on their academic and creative pursuits without undue financial stress. Overall, the university aims to facilitate access to quality music education through a variety of funding channels, enabling students from diverse backgrounds to develop their talents and achieve their educational goals.

The Music program at Kingston University offers students an in-depth exploration of musical practice, theory, and history, preparing them for diverse careers within the music industry. The course is designed to foster both practical musicianship and critical understanding of musical contexts, covering a broad spectrum of genres from classical to contemporary, including popular music, jazz, world music, and electronic music. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including recording studios, rehearsal spaces, and digital music labs, enabling hands-on experience in composition, performance, production, and sound engineering.

Throughout the program, students engage with a variety of modules that develop their technical skills, musical literacy, and creative abilities. These modules may include Performance Practice, Music Technology, Composition, Musicology, and Music Industry Studies. The course emphasizes collaborative learning and provides numerous opportunities for students to perform live, record, and produce music, fostering teamwork and real-world skills. Kingston University also encourages students to participate in internships, live gigs, and industry sessions to gain practical insights and build professional networks.

The program is suitable for aspiring professional musicians, composers, producers, music educators, and those interested in music management or music therapy. Students are supported by experienced staff who are active in research and professional practice, ensuring that the curriculum remains current and relevant. The university also offers extracurricular ensembles, clubs, and performances, enriching students' educational experience.

Graduates of the program have gone on to work in various sectors of the music industry, including live performance, recording, broadcasting, music publishing, and education. The university’s strong industry links and location in London provide students with ample opportunities for networking, internships, and performances. Overall, Kingston University’s Music program combines rigorous academic study with practical skills development, fostering creative innovation and professional readiness for the competitive music industry.