UAL Level Three Diploma and Extended Diploma in Music Performance and Production Arts

This course has been designed to provide students with the skills, knowledge and understanding necessary to access and progress to degree level study and employment in the performing arts sector. It provides an opportunity for those who have an interest in music to explore, develop and test their creativity within a qualification structure which is stimulating and demanding and provides a supportive transition from general to more specialised study. It is generally delivered over one year and will enable learners to develop a portfolio of work that could support progression into a range of higher education courses. Most learners will progress to the UAL Level 3 Extended Diploma in Music Performance and Production Arts.

This course is available as part of a full-time study programme for 16 to 18 year olds, and as a part-time course for adults aged 19 and over. Please ask learner services for details.

What will I study?

The level three course is designed to explore your specialism. Each pathway is detailed towards the relevant areas of specialist skills development in the modern music industry. This is defined in four main pathways which include:

Performance
- Auditioning
- Composing a music product
- Rehearsal and Live Performance
Technology
- Auditioning
- Production / engineering
- Specialist study
Music business
- A&R
- Label Management
- Specialist study
Composing
- Collaborative composition
- Composition techniques
- Multi-media composition

How will I be assessed?

This artist development course is assessed through practical activities and written coursework depending on the subject matter. Coursework and practical assessments are based on realistic workplace situations and live assignments where appropriate and are designed to develop skills and experience leading to professional experience.

Entry requirements

Four GCSEs grade A* to C/4-9 to include English
Or level two diploma (merit)
Or first diploma (merit)
Or NVQ level two
Or equivalent

You must also possess appropriate musical skills and experience (normally around two years' instrumental playing experience). The ability to read music is not essential. You will be called to audition on the strength of your application. No one will be accepted without an audition.

What next?

A continuation onto the Higher National Diploma in Music as a culmination for our artist development programme, degrees in popular music, music technology, commercial music or performing arts. Many students go on to employment or become self-employed in the music industry directly as a result of studying on this course.