Because of a recent PHP security advisory, we have experienced disruptions to college systems and services. You can find more details on the actions taken in response to this security incident.

Key details

Course area
Performing Arts
Student type
16 - 18 courses
Course type
Full-time Further Education course
Course level
Level 2
Start date
Location
City Hub 111 Canal Street, Nottingham, NG1 7HB
Course code
Parent course code:C060833 Child course code: Q060834
Apply now

Course introduction

Turn your passion for music into practical creative skills.

This hands-on Level 2 UAL Music Technology course is ideal if you're interested in music production, recording, using music technology in performance, composition and sound design and want to develop your skills in a creative and supportive environment.

  • You'll work with industry-standard music technology, developing your confidence with recording, editing, mixing and creating music. 
  • You'll explore production techniques, composition approaches and the creative processes behind the music you listen to.
  • You’ll develop skills in using music technology effectively in live performance. 
  • You'll investigate how music and sound can be used to create atmosphere, emotion and support storytelling in films, games, and other visual media.
  • You'll learn how to plan projects, solve creative and technical problems, respond to feedback and improve your work.

You could create your own music, produce tracks, develop sound effects, create a soundtrack for a short film or experiment with sound design for a game. Along the way, you'll explore artists, producers, composers and sound designers, developing your understanding of how music and technology are used across the creative industries.

Throughout the course, you'll work both independently and collaboratively, developing your ability to plan projects, solve creative and technical problems, respond to feedback and communicate your ideas. 

The course culminates in final assignment ‘Realise’ - A music production / performance project, giving you the chance to bring everything you've learned together in a substantial final project. You'll have the opportunity to develop your own creative ideas, plan your project, produce or perform music, and present your finished work. This could involve recording, music production, composition, live performance or a combination of these areas.

You will develop skills in: 

  • Music production and recording
  • Digital Audio Workstation software and music technology
  • Editing and mixing
  • Composition and arrangement
  • Music technology in performance, pre-production and rehearsal
  • Music and sound design for film, television, game and visual media
  • Critical listening and sound analysis
  • Developing and communicating creative ideas
  • Planning and managing creative projects

Whether you want to become a music producer, performer, composer, recording engineer, sound designer or audio professional, this course will help you develop the confidence, practical skills and creative experience to take your next step.

Assessment through 100% coursework. No exams.

Course information

1 year

UAL Level 2 Diploma in Music, Performing and Production Arts

You will need 4 GCSEs at Grades 3-9, including English and Maths, one of which needs to be a Grade 4 or above.

Assessment includes:

  • Coursework and project work
  • Research and planning evidence
  • Logs, evaluations and reflective writing
  • Practical studio activities and rehearsals
  • Music productions and performances
  • A portfolio of work, including a Final Major Project completed at the end of the course

On successful completion of this course you could progress to UAL Level 3 Performing or Production Arts, or Music Performance & Production courses.

Students aged 16-18 don't have to pay tuition fees.

If you are aged 19 or over you may still be eligible for funding. Check out our Financial Help pages to find out more!

If you are an EU/EEA or Swiss National, please visit our EU Settled Status scheme page for more information.

Careers related to this course

Actors, Entertainers and Presenters

Potential Earnings

£52,048.04

Average Earnings

£29,161.19

Source: Office for National Statistics' Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE).

Employment opportunities

The number of job postings in this career for previous years starting from 2023, the current year and projections for future years until 2034.

Sources: The Labour Force Survey (LFS), Working Futures (projections) data, and Business Register and Employment Survey (BRES).

Pathways

Art, Performance and Design

People in these occupations create art and fine craftwork, produce and perform plays and motion pictures, and design graphics and other products.

Media, Publishing and Information Services

People in these occupations produce, publish, and release media and provide library, archive, curation, and information services.

Skills

Speaking

Talking to others to convey information effectively.

Active Listening

Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

Critical Thinking

Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.

Reading Comprehension

Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.

Learning Strategies

Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.
View more about this career

Economic data for careers is provided by Lightcast and also available through our Career Coach app. Job postings, employment and earnings information is represented at the regional level for the East Midlands.

Introduction to Creative Arts (Entry Level) - Full-time

Music Technology (Level 1) - Full-time

Performing and Production Arts (Level 1 UAL Diploma) - Full-time