Search

Starts

1 Sep 2025

Study mode

Full Time

Campus

Framwellgate Moor Campus

Duration

2 Years

Level

Level 3

Awarding body

BTEC

Course code

MUSIF3002A01

Fee Information

Standard Fees of £3888.00 for the first year

Advanced Learner Loan Fees of £7395.00

Please note, these prices are for the current academic year and may be subject to change for our courses starting in future years. Many of our students are eligible for financial support when studying at college, please see Fees and funding for more information.

Age 16-18

FREE (If meet residency criteria and not enrolled at another educational institution).

If you are aged 16, 17 or 18 on 31 August in the year you begin your course, not enrolled at another educational institution and have been resident in the UK for the past 3 years, your course will be FREE. Some courses will have other costs associated, such as for materials and trips.

Age 19+

If you are aged 19 or older on 31 August in the year you begin your course, not enrolled at another educational institution and have been resident in the UK for the past 3 years, your course could be free dependant on the level of the course and your eligibility criteria. The rules regarding fee reduction are complicated, we would encourage you to contact our Advice, Support and Careers Team on 0191 375 4400, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or connect on live chat (bottom right of your screen).

Student Finance

If you are aged 19 or over and not eligible to get your course free, you could apply for an Advanced Learner Loan from the Student Loans Company to help towards the cost of some, or all, of your fees. If the amount of Advanced Learner Loan available to you is less than the Advanced Learner Loan Fee for your course, you would need to pay the difference. See our Funding Your Study page for more information or visit the Student Loans Company website to find out more.

Course may be subject to change.

This music course forms part of a two year programme that will prepare you for work within the music industry by developing your technical and practical skills. Undertaking a work placement in a relevant area, and engaging in multiple live performances, will provide you with essential valuable skills.

You will become aware of the influencers of popular music across the ages, and will develop your own performance style.

Studying the first and second year of this course will also prepare you for progression to study a degree level course at New College Durham's University Centre or at university.

Entry Criteria

You will hold four GCSEs at grade 4 (or equivalent), including maths and English.

This course is accessible to applicants of all ages who possess suitable experience and ability.

Additional Costs

You will need to own and maintain musical equipment and instruments, including a first study instrument and necessary accessories.

What are the next steps?

You will meet with a course tutor in our Music Department which is on the first floor of the Music & Sport building.

Please come prepared with a short piece of music demonstrating your technical ability.

This will be followed by an informal discussion regarding scales and rudiments as they pertain to your instrument or voice.

Study Aims

The course is designed to stretch and challenge those who are looking to progress into a career in the industry. It is an opportunity to develop your instrumental skill and repertoire, in group and solo contexts. You will apply and refine your audio awareness across a range of popular music genres, and will study and analyse the influence of popular music across the ages.

This highly practical qualification will allow you to explore, develop and test your creativity. You will be provided with the skills, knowledge and understanding needed to progress to degree level study or employment. You will create song writing portfolios, audio and MIDI projects using Logic Pro X.

Modules Studied

You will study the following units:

A1: Performing as an ensemble A2: Creating musical material A3: Using musical styles C7: Planning a career in the music industry

Teaching and Assessment

Assessment is carried out on a continuous basis and the course is delivered through a series of practical projects and assignments, including public performances.

The assignments will be both practical and theoretical throughout the year and you will be expected to set targets and make a record of this. Performance-based modules will be assessed through live performances in professional music venues, such as the Gala Theatre and the College’s Drama Studio. Aural perception skills will focus on skills tests in pitch and rhythm.

Industry Links

We are very proud of the strong industry links we hold. Our established link with the Gala Theatre in Durham ensures you are provided with the opportunity to perform in a professional environment.

Our tutors are practicing professionals who have links with professional venues, studios, producers, theatre companies, musical directors and agencies.

Placement

You will be encouraged to pursue a work placement to get experience working in a relevant area. Previous students have successfully secured placements in local radio stations, live music venues, recording and rehearsal studios, and shadowing music teachers in either a classroom or stage school setting.

Where can it take me?

Musicians £42,120 Potential salary

More info