COURSE CURRICULUM

The Popular Music degree at Birmingham City University is structured over three years to provide students with comprehensive practical, technical, and industry-focused training. In the first year, students build foundational skills through modules such as MAST (MIDI, Audio, Studio Techniques), Working Live, Contextual Study in Action, The Music Industry, Technical Development, and Creative Portfolio. These modules introduce core music industry practices, technical proficiency, performance experience, and creative development. In the second year, students progress to more advanced skills and industry engagement through modules including Production Cycle, Music Business and Personal Development, Technical Development 2, Music Critique and Analysis, and Promoted Showcase/Product. This year emphasizes both technical mastery and professional preparation, encouraging students to develop a portfolio of work and an understanding of industry processes. In the final year, students focus on higher-level artistic and business skills with modules such as Music as Art, Advanced Techniques for Emerging Artists, International Music Business Realisation, and a Major Project. These modules enable students to synthesize their learning, apply advanced creative techniques, and explore global music business practices. Across all three years, the course provides a balance of creative, technical, and professional training, preparing graduates to pursue careers as performers, producers, composers, or other roles in the contemporary music industry with both practical expertise and critical understanding.