COURSE CURRICULUM

The Popular Music degree at Salford provides students with a comprehensive foundation in musicianship, composition, performance, and industry practice. In the first year, students develop core skills in musicianship, composition, arranging, and technology, while exploring popular music styles and genres. They gain practical experience through performance studies, applied composition, and interpreting popular music, establishing a solid base for creative and professional development. In the second year, the focus shifts toward professional development in the creative industries, with students selecting from a range of optional modules tailored to their interests. Options include advanced musicianship, studio composition, audio for media, studio recording and production, popular music and identity, creative compositions and arranging, advanced performance, and music journalism. This allows students to deepen their skills in both creative practice and the technical aspects of music production. In the final year, students consolidate their learning through project-focused modules, including project scope, professional practice, and a negotiated major project. These opportunities encourage independent creative thinking and practical application of knowledge, preparing students for careers in performance, composition, music production, and the wider creative industries. By combining artistic development with professional skills, the program equips graduates to succeed in a competitive and evolving music sector.