Undergraduate Course
Music Production BA (Hons)
Develop recording studio, composition and production software skills to create innovative music. Immerse yourself in the audio industry and experience life as a music producer.
On this course you will learn to create, arrange and manipulate music and sound. We will guide you to develop advanced sound engineering techniques as you build your portfolio of work, and collaborate with artists and clients from across the creative industries. Through this you will gain the skills and experience to establish yourself as an innovative music professional.
York campus
- UCAS code – J930
- Duration – 3 years full time, 6 years part time
- Start date – September 2024, September 2025
- School – School of the Arts
Minimum entry requirements
104 UCAS Tariff points
3 GCSEs at grade C/4 (or equivalent) including English Language.
Tuition fees
UK 2024 entry £9,250 per year full time
International 2024 entry £11,500 per year full time
Discover Music Production
Chris Johnson, Senior Lecturer, introduces us to Music Production courses at York St John University.
Course overview
On this highly practical course you will learn primarily by doing, producing music for professional clients and for yourself. This means you can build your portfolio and become a confident producer, able to adapt to any production situation.
During your time with us, you will:
- Write and produce commercial tracks to enhance your understanding of music production
- Sequence and synthesize sounds and beats using different digital technologies
- Learn advanced studio recording techniques with a developed understanding of acoustics
- Negotiate with clients and gain an understanding of copyright and business processes within the music industry
- Produce a major piece of work, like an album or film soundtrack
- Use digital marketing and social media to promote and sell your own music
Alongside the practical elements of this degree, you will also advance your theoretical understanding of music production. Through workshops and seminars, you will contribute to current debates around production. This could involve examining modern distribution platforms, the history of synthesis and sampling, music in film, and much more.
You will gain professional experience by working on live projects within the creative industries. These will be in collaboration with our network of industry producers, artists and clients. You will take part in masterclasses and workshops with high profile music industry guests. There are also opportunities to visit professional recording studios, including a working visit to Abbey Road studios in your final year.
Facilities
Our state-of-the-art audio production facilities will enable you to extend your technical learning and explore your creativity. Our audio production studios are versatile spaces where you will develop your creative practice. These facilities include:
- A dedicated recording studio, complete with large-format mixing console and an extensive stock of professional studio microphones and outboard equipment
- Our live room that contains a full backline of band instruments and equipment
- A electronic music production suite with a range of analogue and digital synthesizers, drum machines and hardware controllers
- A mastering studio
- Location recording packs for you to produce music outside of the studio
Our main teaching room contains individual workstations, complete with Apple computers, controller keyboards, Focusrite audio interfaces and industry standard audio production software, including:
- Logic Pro X
- Pro Tools
- Ableton Live
- Native Instruments Komplete 13
Equipment
Equipment can be borrowed and used in your home or on location. We also have a stock of portable production packs you can borrow to continue working at home. Each includes a MacBook Pro, audio interface and microphone. There are no weekly restrictions on how much time you can spend in the studio. In your final year, you will have 24/7 access to the studio.
Course structure
Year 1
Our academic year is split into 2 semesters. How many modules you study each semester will depend on whether you are a full time or part time student.
In your first year, if you are a full time student, you will study:
- 6 compulsory modules across semesters 1 and 2
- 1 compulsory module in semester 1
- 1 compulsory module in semester 2
If you are a part time student, the modules above will be split over 2 years.
You can find out which modules are available in each semester on the Course Specifications.
Modules
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
On this module you will develop a foundation of professional sound engineering skills. After learning the principles of sound and studio technology, you will explore them practically through taught studio sessions. We will introduce you to:
- Transducers
- Signal routing and gain staging
- Processing and recording principles
- Recording studio operations
- Summing and mixing theory
- Using the mixing console
Through this you will begin to understand the physical properties of sound, and how it behaves in different environments.
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
A fundamental understanding of how production technology works is key to a successful future in audio media. On this module you will investigate the techniques needed to effectively use digital workstations. These methods include:
- Audio recording, editing and mixing
- Analogue and digital sequencing, synthesis and sampling
- Operation of different software packages
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
On this module you will gain a deeper understanding of studio technology, composition, and DAW practice, learning how to use them efficiently to produce professional level outcomes. You will build on your previous introduction to the studio, and further build your experience of using the studio as a workplace. We will challenge you to create music productions as part of a team, collaborating and managing outcomes.
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
Contemporary production methods have made it very simple to assemble a few pre-made loops into a listenable section of track, but a deeper understanding of music is required to create a dynamic composition that resonates meaning with the listener. On this module you will develop your musical understanding, along with your ability to apply it creatively in composing music with meaning. You will explore the foundational elements of music by combining music theory with contemporary Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) based composition.
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
On this module you will gain a deeper understanding of the music industry. You will start by exploring how the music industry has developed, appreciating how technology has propelled it into the 21st Century. You will learn about the formation of music industry institutions, legal frameworks, and more. You will also explore how the consumption of music has evolved by analysing at the sales of records and music instruments. Finally, you will consider the business models and fragmentation of the music industry.
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
Through this module we will introduce you to key academic sources, including books and journal articles, which will enhance your study. This will help you to analyse recorded pieces of music in a variety of contexts, and applying key frameworks to your written assessments will help you to develop your research and academic writing. We will also encourage you to join in discussions and debates, both spoken and written, about key concepts and issues surrounding the study of music production.
Year 2
In your second year, if you are a full time student, you will study:
- 5 compulsory modules across semester 1 and 2
- 1 compulsory module in semester 1
- 1 optional module in semester 2
If you are a part time student, the modules above will be split over 2 years.
You can find out which modules are available in each semester on the Course Specifications.
Optional modules will run if they receive enough interest. It is not guaranteed that all modules will run every year.
Modules
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
On this module you will develop your musical knowledge by studying composition and arrangement in different production contexts, considering the roles of instruments in an arrangement, and learning how different sounds and sonic textures can be mixed to create compositions. Topics covered on this module could include:
- Beats, grooves and syncopation
- Creating a hook
- 4-part harmony writing
- Manipulating time signatures and tempo
- Track development for communicating a meaning
- Density and layering for effect
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
Through a series of recording technique and computer-based production workshops, you will build your sound engineering skills on this module. You will study the design and operation of specialist studio recording equipment, hardware and software synthesisers and samplers. This will enable you to develop your skills and apply your technical understanding effectively in production scenarios.
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
On this module you will develop your skills in mixing music, along with further skills in critical listening and sonic evaluation. Using historical and current methods, you will find your own best practices for putting different audio tracks together.
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
On this module you will manage a music production project from start to finish, based on a brief from an external client. As well as managing the production, you will be expected to deal with the client in a professional way. This is an opportunity to develop your creative direction and enhance your artistic identity.
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
At this level you will be expected to engage with a greater range of research sources and demonstrate your increased ability when analysing recorded music. We will encourage you to evaluate factors that have shaped the evolution of the Music Production as an academic field. These could include technological, economic, social and cultural influences. You will be supported throughout the module with class workshops and formative assessments to build up your skills in this area. You will be supported throughout the module with class workshops and formative assessments primarily to build up your skills in this area.
Credits: 20
Optional module
As a music professional, it is important to know how music is presented and sold to the public. On this module you will learn about the different marketing and publicity processes used in the music industry. PR techniques have developed through research into how people use music in their lives, and the impact is had on their everyday activities. One aspect of this module is investigating how this information is gathered and how it feeds into business plans and models.on their everyday activities. You will look at how this information is gathered and how it feeds into business plans and models.
Credits: 20
Optional module
This practical module will prepare you for your major project in your final year. Through practical workshops you will design, assemble and operate live sound systems, as well as evaluating their effectiveness. This will also involve assessing an event’s requirements, designing a system for it, planning its operation, and then performing the live sound duties. On this module you will also learn about the technical gear that is used in small to medium PA systems.
Credits: 20
Optional module
On this module you will develop your skills in presenting songs in a recorded format. This will involve investigating the concepts and contexts of producing song recordings, from demos through to the final production.
Credits: 20
Optional module
This module will focus on the raw material of popular song: melody, harmony, structure, and lyrics. Through workshops and practical exercises, you will explore how to combine these elements to communicate complex concepts and emotions, writing songs that listeners can relate to. You will study great songs and analyse what makes them so effective, which will help to enhance your own practice and better understand your art.
Credits: 20
Optional module
On this module you will research the roles of audio personnel in the film and television industries, and gain an insight into their working practices. You will learn the conventions and technical operations of producing sound to synchronise with moving image, and study the structures of media projects, while also learning how sound designers make their contribution. You will learn through analysis of example film clips, studying the work of seminal sound designers and undertaking a series of sound design tasks.
Credits: 20
Optional module
Through this module you will develop your understanding of the power of music when combined with the moving image. The theories you explore will focus on music for narrative film, but the module will also cover music in television, video game and web contexts. You will both learn the technical requirements of working with music and picture, and consider the theoretical discussions around the purpose of music and moving image.
Credits: 20
Optional module
Learn how historical developments in music technology have influenced electronic dance music (EDM) production styles, and develop an understanding of the techniques used to employ the technology in the creation of a music product. You will begin this module with a guided tour through the genesis of electronic music and its evolution into EDM in the contemporary context. You will then examine the instruments, composition and performance culture surrounding these early systems. We will consider the work of key figures such as Pierre Schaeffer, Bob Moog, Don Buchla and Derick May, among many others.
Credits: 20
Optional module
On this module you will develop a methodology for recording music in live performance situations. These are defined as performances that happen outside of a recording studio, where overdubbing is impractical or not desired, or where the presence of an audience places significant limitations on the recording process. For example:
- Recording a classical ensemble in a concert hall
- Producing a live recording from a gig in a rock venue
- Recording an acoustic ensemble for a live session on a radio programme
Year 3
In your third year, if you are a full time student, you will study:
- 2 compulsory modules across semester 1 and 2
- 1 compulsory module in semester 1
- 1 compulsory module in semester 2
If you are a part time student, the modules above will be split over 2 years.
You can find out which modules are available in each semester on the Course Specifications.
Modules
Credits: 60
Compulsory module
This module is your opportunity to showcase the breadth of knowledge and production skills gained during your time on the course. You will demonstrate your production practice and run a full recording project, producing a portfolio of commercial music. This could take the form of:
- An album production for a local music group
- A collection of tracks or EPs of music that you have written or recorded
- A soundtrack for a film or other moving image product
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
Using analysis, experiment, theory, practice and reflection, for your dissertation you will write and submit a written document on a topic you are passionate about. After negotiating the subject with your supervisor, you will write up to 6,000 words that contribute to research in your chosen specialism.
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
During your time on the course, you will have developed skills that can be transferred into a variety of professional roles. On this module, you will work with a supervisor to develop a career plan, based on research into an industry or enterprise you are interested in. As part of this module you will also learn about continued professional development (CPD) and self-reflective exercises. These are tools with which you can use throughout your career as you continue to develop your professional practice.
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
On this module you will investigate the history of audio mastering, and consider how historical events have affected music distribution. You will use your critical listening skills in different contexts when looking into headphone technology, acoustics, and the evolution of audio formats. From receiving audio to delivering the final product, we will cover every part of the audio mastering process,helping you to gain a professional level understanding of this area of music technology.
Teaching and assessment
Teaching and learning
We keep our group sizes small so we can get to know your creative personality and support your aspirations. We deliver your modules through:
- Workshops
- Studio seminar groups
- Technical skills training
- Lectures
- One to one supervision
Each module has between 1 and 6 hours of contact time a week. We schedule our taught sessions between 9.00am and 8.00pm, Monday to Friday.
You will also need to conduct independent study outside of this time. This might include studio work, reading, composition tasks, and research. You can also arrange academic tutorials with your module tutors throughout the year to receive feedback on your work and discuss the course content.
Our teaching draws on our professional experience as music producers, and we bring in guests from the industry to work with you. This means your learning is informed by the most current thinking in the subject area. You can find out more about our research and backgrounds by visiting our staff pages.
Assessment
There are no exams on this course. Assessment methods are based on practical coursework projects and vary from module to module. We have designed them to reflect the work you will carry out in the industry. Some of your assessments might include:
- Portfolios of production work
- Portfolios of creative business documentation
- Essays
- Journal articles
- Presentations
- Practical skills tests
For each assessment you will have the chance to talk to a tutor about your work before submission. Each assessment will be marked and returned with feedback so you can improve your work.
Career outcomes
Your future with a degree in Music Production
This course gives you the diverse creative and technological skills you need for a career in the music industry. You will develop specialist knowledge of contract negotiation and product promotion. The transferrable skills you gain in research, communication, and collaboration could be applied to many different careers.
This degree could be the first step toward your career as a:
- Composer
- Music producer
- Radio producer
- Film and TV audio technician
- Sound engineer
- Independent artist
Discover more career options on Prospects careers advice pages.
You could also progress onto a postgraduate degree and take your learning even further.
Postgraduate degrees at York St John University
PGCE at York St John University
Further your education and work towards a rewarding career in teaching by studying for a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) after you graduate. For over 180 years, we have worked with enthusiastic individuals who want to shape the future of young people across both primary and secondary school settings. You'll spend a lot of time in schools, developing your practice by teaching. You will graduate with Qualified Teacher Status and become part of the well respected alumni of York St John educators.
Whatever your ambitions, we can help you get there.
Our careers service, LaunchPad provides career support tailored to your ambitions. Through this service you can access:
- Employer events
- LinkedIn, CV and cover letter sessions
- Workshops on application writing and interview skills
- Work experience and volunteering opportunities
- Personalised career advice
This support doesn't end when you graduate. You can access our expert career advice for the rest of your life. We will help you gain experience and confidence to succeed.
Entry requirements
Qualifications
Minimum entry requirements
104 UCAS Tariff points
3 GCSEs at grade C/4 (or equivalent) including English Language.
Calculate your UCAS Tariff points
Additional entry requirements
We prefer applicants to have studied Music Production or Music Technology at Level 3, but if you have not studied in these areas you may still be considered.
In your personal statement please discuss your interest in Music Production and highlight any previous experience in this areas, whether through study or extra-curricular activity. This could include:
- Writing and recording your own music
- Making electronic music with computers
- Recording in a studio
- Producing your own music
- Regular DJ work
- Uploading your own recordings to online platforms such as SoundCloud or Bandcamp
You may be contacted for an informal telephone interview before we make you an offer. We also encourage you to attend an Open Day if you are able to.
International students
If you are an international student you will need to show that your qualifications match our entry requirements.
Information about international qualifications and entry requirements can be found on our International pages.
If English is not your first language you will need to show that you have English Language competence at IELTS level 6.0 (with no skill below 5.5) or equivalent.
Mature Learners Entry Scheme
If you have been out of education for 3 years or more and have a grade C GCSE in English Language or equivalent, you are eligible for our entry scheme for mature learners. It's a scheme that recognises non-traditional entry qualifications and experience for entry onto this course. Information on how to apply can be found on our dedicated page.
Terms and conditions
Our terms and conditions, policies and procedures contain important information about studying at York St John University. You can read them on our Admissions page.
Fees and funding
To study for an undergraduate degree with us, you will need to pay tuition fees for your course. How much you pay depends on whether you live inside the UK, or internationally (outside the UK). Tuition fees may be subject to inflation in future years.
UK 2024 entry
The tuition fee for 2024 entry onto this course is:
- £9,250 per year for full time study
- £6,935 per year for the first 4 years if you study part time
These prices apply to all UK, Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man students
You can find out more about funding your degree by visiting our funding opportunities page:
Placement year funding
If you choose to take a placement year, and your course offers it, you can apply for the Tuition Fee and Maintenance Loan for your placement year. How much you are awarded is based on the type of placement being undertaken and whether it is a paid or unpaid placement. The tuition fee for your placement year will be reduced.
Tuition fees
UK 2024 entry £9,250 per year full time
International 2024 entry £11,500 per year full time
International 2024 entry
The tuition fee for 2024 entry to this course is £11,500 per year for full time study.
This price applies to all students living outside the UK.
Due to immigration laws, if you are an international student on a Student Visa, you must study full time. For more information about visa requirements and short-term study visas, please visit the International Visa and Immigration pages.
Find out more about funding your degree:
Additional costs and financial support
There may also be some additional costs to take into account throughout your studies, including the cost of accommodation.
Course-related costs
While studying for your degree, there may be additional costs related to your course. This may include purchasing personal equipment and stationery, books and optional field trips.
Study Abroad
For more information on tuition fee reductions and additional costs for studying abroad, please visit our study abroad pages.
Accommodation and living costs
For detailed information on accommodation and living costs, visit our Accommodation pages.
Financial help and support
Our Funding Advice team are here to help you with your finances throughout your degree. They offer a personal service that can help you with funding your studies and budgeting for living expenses.
For advice on everything from applying for scholarships to finding additional financial support email fundingadvice@yorksj.ac.uk.
Course highlights
Gain production expertise
Learn by producing, mixing and mastering tracks in a wide range of contexts. You will be a producer from the day you join us.
Unlimited studio access
We do not place restrictions on your access to our 4 studios. The Bunker features 3 recording spaces centred around a new Audient ASP8024 HE large format recording console.
Studio visits
Apply your skills in the most famous studio in the world. Visit and work in the famous Abbey Road studios on a trip in your final year.
Write for our blog
You will have the opportunity to contribute to our blog. Write about areas of music that interest you, industry news or aspects of the course you are enjoying.
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Ben Burrows Course lead
Study with like minded people who share your passion for creating awesome music with the latest technology. We will help you to establish and strengthen your skills, build your portfolio of productions and find your place in the creative industries.
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