COURSE CURRICULUM

The MA in Commercial Songwriting and Production is structured across three terms and is designed to develop students’ songwriting, performance, production, and music business skills. In Term 1, students study Commercial Songwriting 1, which focuses on developing songwriting techniques, creativity, and an understanding of contemporary commercial music markets. Developing Voice and Style 1 helps students refine their artistic identity, vocal expression, and creative direction. Creative Music Management introduces key aspects of the music industry, including project planning, professional practice, and artist development, while Audio Production provides practical training in recording, editing, mixing, and producing music using industry-standard technologies. In Term 2, students build on these foundations through Commercial Songwriting 2, which advances their songwriting skills and explores professional approaches to creating commercially viable music. Developing Voice and Style 2 further enhances artistic development, encouraging students to strengthen their unique creative identity and performance capabilities. Making Music Work focuses on strategies for sustaining a successful music career, including industry engagement and professional opportunities, while Image and Brand examines personal branding, audience engagement, and visual identity within the music industry. In Term 3, students undertake a Creative Music Project, an independent and substantial piece of work that allows them to apply their creative, technical, and professional skills to a specialised project. Together, these modules prepare graduates for careers in songwriting, music production, performance, artist development, and the wider music industry.