Popular Music BA/BMus
Study of contemporary music creation, performance, production, and the music industries, focusing on popular genres and real-world creative practice.
Is this for you?
This degree could suit you if you:
Love music and performance
Play an instrument or sing
Want a career in the music industry
Enjoy creative expression
Are dedicated to improving your skills
Popular Career Fields
Music & Sound Industry
Education
Events & Entertainment
Arts & Culture
Your Personality Might Be:
Musical creativity
Education
Collaborative musician
Industry-aware
What is it?
What is a Popular Music degree?
A Popular Music degree explores how popular music is written, performed, produced, and distributed in modern cultural and commercial contexts.
You’ll study popular genres such as pop, rock, hip-hop, electronic, indie, jazz, and fusion, while developing practical skills in performance, songwriting, production, and music technology.
The degree balances creative practice with industry awareness, helping you understand both the artistic and professional sides of music.
It is ideal for students who want to pursue careers as musicians, songwriters, producers, or music industry professionals.
Why study Popular Music degree?
If you are passionate about making music and want to develop your creative identity alongside employable skills, this degree offers a flexible and practical pathway.
It helps you understand:
How popular music is created, arranged, and recorded
Performance skills for live and studio contexts
Songwriting and composition for contemporary audiences
Music technology, production, and recording techniques
How the music industry operates commercially and creatively
Popular Music degrees are strongly aligned with real-world creative careers.
Course Summary
Study of contemporary music creation, performance, production, and the music industries, focusing on popular genres and real-world creative practice.
What you'll study
Most Popular Music degrees cover:
Performance skills and ensemble work
Songwriting, composition, and arrangement
Music production and recording techniques
Music theory for popular genres
Music industry, marketing, and entrepreneurship
Music history and contemporary music cultures
Skills You'll Gain
A Popular Music degree builds creative and practical music skills including:
Musical performance and musicianship – developing confidence, technique, and stage presence.
Songwriting and composition – creating original music across popular genres.
Music production and technology – recording, editing, and producing high-quality audio.
Collaboration and teamwork – working effectively with bands, producers, and creatives.
Professional and entrepreneurial skills – preparing for freelance and portfolio careers.
Pathways, Placements and Work Experience
CAREERS
Career Pathways
Graduates pursue careers in:
Performing as solo artists or band members
Songwriting and composition
Music production and audio engineering
Music education and community music
Artist management and music business roles
Media, sound, and creative industries
Work Experiences & Placements
Many Popular Music degrees encourage students to gain practical industry experience alongside study.
Some programmes offer placement years, industry-linked modules, or supported internships, while others help students find opportunities independently.
Typical opportunities include:
Recording studios and music production companies
Live music venues and events organisations
Music labels, publishers, or management companies
Community music and education projects
Freelance performance, session work, or songwriting
Universities often support students through industry contacts, live showcases, and careers services.
Salary Profile
Coming soon
Qualifications, Personal Satement, What to do Next?
AM I ELIGIBLE?
Entry Requirements
Most universities accept a broad range. Music, Music Technology, or performance qualifications are beneficial.
Personal Statement Tips
Explain your musical background and influences.
Discuss your interests in performance, songwriting, or production.
Mention bands, artists, or genres that inspire you.
Highlight creativity, commitment, and collaboration skills.
What to do Next
Build a portfolio of songs, recordings, or performances.
Gain experience performing live or recording independently.
Learn basic music production software (e.g. Logic, Ableton).
Research courses with strong industry links and performance opportunities.
Wider Reading
How Music Works – David Byrne
An insightful exploration of how music is created, performed, and shared.Songwriters on Songwriting – Paul Zollo
Interviews with leading songwriters discussing creative process.The Music Business Handbook – David Baskerville
A clear introduction to how the music industry operates.Mixing Secrets for the Small Studio – Mike Senior
A practical guide to music production and sound quality.This Is Your Brain on Music – Daniel J. Levitin
An engaging look at the psychology and neuroscience of music.