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Student playing a guitar on stage

Course Overview

This programme is a two-year full-time programme at Levels 4 and 5.

In year one you will complete a Higher National Certificate in Music (Artist Development) at Level 4.

On completion of your Higher National Certificate, you will complete a Higher National Diploma in Music (Artist Development) at Level 5.

This course has been designed for people who have an interest in popular music and have reached a good standard as a musician. The course provides you with the opportunity to develop current skills, an in-depth knowledge of the industry and the history of popular music.

The programme is designed to provide you with a wide experience of performance styles and techniques, and to give you plenty of opportunities to produce and take part in work for the wider community.

Through practical classes you will develop a wide range of techniques, and other teaching methods include formal lectures, seminars, tutorials and reflective practice.

What You Will Study

The Level 4 Higher National Certificate consists 120 credits at Level 4 delivered via the ‘General’ Music pathway

Mandatory Units

  • The Music Industry
  • Professional Development
  • Marketing and Promotion

Specialist Units

  • Performance
  • Instrumental Techniques
  • Songwriting
  • Composing Using Technology
  • Recording Technology
  • Attendance Expectations

    Three days per week, including evening performances.

  • How You Will Be Assessed

    Assessment takes place throughout the year and is externally verified.

    Assessment methods are assignment based and may include practical projects including presentations, group activities, written reports, or research projects.

  • Entry Requirements

    Minimum 64 UCAS tariff points from A Levels or a Level 3 diploma in a related subject.

    OR

    Those with previous experience or learning that is relevant may be eligible via our RPL (Recognition of Prior Learning) process for accreditation towards this course.

    All applicants must complete a satisfactory interview and audition.

  • Fee Information

    £7,400

  • Further Study

    Progression to HND Music (Artist Development) which can be studied at Wakefield College.

Creative Industries Newsletter

Upload 2024

The School of Popular Music’s loud and lively finale to the year is our annual music festival Upload. The Festival celebrates the best that Wakefield College music students have to offer, with a number of bands performing an extensive catalogue of styles from original music to classic songs.

Photo of students performing at the Upload music festival

Upload 2024

The School of Popular Music’s loud and lively finale to the year is our annual music festival Upload. The Festival celebrates the best that Wakefield College music students have to offer, with a number of bands performing an extensive catalogue of styles from original music to classic songs.

Photo of students performing at the Upload music festival

Upload 2024

The School of Popular Music’s loud and lively finale to the year is our annual music festival Upload. The Festival celebrates the best that Wakefield College music students have to offer, with a number of bands performing an extensive catalogue of styles from original music to classic songs.

Photo of students performing at the Upload music festival

Upload 2024

The School of Popular Music’s loud and lively finale to the year is our annual music festival Upload. The Festival celebrates the best that Wakefield College music students have to offer, with a number of bands performing an extensive catalogue of styles from original music to classic songs.

Photo of students performing at the Upload music festival

Upload 2024

The School of Popular Music’s loud and lively finale to the year is our annual music festival Upload. The Festival celebrates the best that Wakefield College music students have to offer, with a number of bands performing an extensive catalogue of styles from original music to classic songs.

Photo of students performing at the Upload music festival

Upload 2024

The School of Popular Music’s loud and lively finale to the year is our annual music festival Upload. The Festival celebrates the best that Wakefield College music students have to offer, with a number of bands performing an extensive catalogue of styles from original music to classic songs.

Photo of students performing at the Upload music festival

Upload 2024

The School of Popular Music’s loud and lively finale to the year is our annual music festival Upload. The Festival celebrates the best that Wakefield College music students have to offer, with a number of bands performing an extensive catalogue of styles from original music to classic songs.

Photo of students performing at the Upload music festival

Upload 2024

The School of Popular Music’s loud and lively finale to the year is our annual music festival Upload. The Festival celebrates the best that Wakefield College music students have to offer, with a number of bands performing an extensive catalogue of styles from original music to classic songs.

Photo of students performing at the Upload music festival