Music Bachelor of Arts (with Honours) - BA (Hons)
Course Overview - Music Bachelor of Arts (with Honours) - BA (Hons)
Summary
Music is a way to express ideas, connect with others and explore creativity across times and cultures.
On this course you will perform, compose, produce and research music in a huge variety of genres including western classical, opera, jazz, music for media (film, video game), musical theatre, pop, rock, indie, neo soul, hip-hop, contemporary classical/experimental music, folk, EDM and metal, shaping an artistry that’s your own.
Through our distinctive offer in music history, cultural studies and music business, you will engage wit...
Summary
Music is a way to express ideas, connect with others and explore creativity across times and cultures.
On this course you will perform, compose, produce and research music in a huge variety of genres including western classical, opera, jazz, music for media (film, video game), musical theatre, pop, rock, indie, neo soul, hip-hop, contemporary classical/experimental music, folk, EDM and metal, shaping an artistry that’s your own.
Through our distinctive offer in music history, cultural studies and music business, you will engage with urgent contemporary topics including social justice, education and sustainability, connecting music to the ideas and issues shaping today’s world.
You will take part in workshops, ensembles and performance projects, working with professional musicians and artists. With the flexibility to shape your studies, you can focus on the areas that matter most to you, whether performance, composition, production, music history and cultural studies, music education, music therapy, community music or the wider music industry.
As you progress you will build a broad set of creative, research and technical skills, preparing you for a range of careers in music and related fields. Whether you're focusing on educating the next generation of musicians, innovating in the music industry, working in performance or composition or exploring the therapeutic potential of music, your studies and training in music will provide a versatile platform from which to launch a fulfilling career. This is reflected in our Graduate Outcomes, where 91% of our Music graduates were in employment or further study 15 months after graduation (Graduate Outcomes 2022/2023, published 2025).
Key features of the course
Work in high-spec studios and rehearsal spaces and perform in on-campus and offsite venues such as Turner Sims and The Brook.
Access high level one-to-one tuition, coaching and workshops to develop your practical musical skills in performance, production and composition.
Gain real-world experience through community placements in hospitals, care homes, schools and early years settings.
Use our advanced digital humanities facilities, including technologies such as virtual reality and immersive audio-visual environments.
Take part in local, regional and national festivals, conferences, live events and projects, gaining valuable insights into how the music industry operates both on and beyond the stage.
Student support
Southampton is a collaborative and inclusive musical environment where you will be supported and challenged to become the musician, creator and thinker you want to be. You will be taught by industry professionals and world-leading researchers, bringing current practice and insight directly into your learning. You will also have access to wellbeing services, peer mentoring, careers support and dedicated spaces to support your studies.
Further information
BA Music is a three-year full-time course based at Highfield Campus. You can also add a Year Abroad or Year in Employment, extending your degree to four years. Our students have studied at partner institutions in countries including Singapore, Hong Kong, Australia, Spain, Norway, Canada, USA, Ireland, France and Germany.
Visit our course page for details.
Course Information
1 option available
Some courses vary and have tailored teaching options, select a course option below.
Course Details
Information
Study Mode
Full-time
Duration
3 Years
Start Date
2027-09-20
Campus
Main Site - Highfield Campus
Application Details
Provider Details
Codes/info
Course Code
A23-E33
Institution Code
S27
Points of Entry
Year 1
Entry Requirements
A level
A,B,B
B,B,B
Typical Offer: ABB to BBB including Music and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard* If you are taking an EPQ in addition to 3 A levels, you will receive the following offer in addition to the standard A level offer: BBB including Music and grade A in the EPQ, and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard* We are committed to ensuring that all students with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a student’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Students who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme. Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking. *Equivalence to grade 8 is ascertained via audition. This can be done in person or by sending a video. We welcome students onto our programmes who are not at this level if their interests focus on other areas, such as composition, music technology and/or music history and ethnomusicology. We can accept a pass in Grade 5 Music Theory where Music is not studied as an accepted Level 3 qualification. We recognise Music practical and theory exams from ABRSM, Trinity, Rockschool and LCM. Specific offer is ascertained at interview.
UCAS Tariff
Not accepted
Scottish Higher
We normally consider applicants who offer at least 1 Advanced Higher. Applicants presenting with only Highers will be considered on a case by case basis. Where Highers are taken over two years it might be expected that higher grades are achieved, particularly in any specific subjects required. For example, S5 – S6 (2 years): AABBB (A in specific subject) or S6 (1 year): ABBBB (A in specific subject). Unless a more advanced level (Higher or Advanced Higher) is specified in the stated entry requirements, all applicants will be required to have achieved a pass in Mathematics and English at Standard Grade, Grade 3 or National 5, Grade C, the equivalent of GCSE Grade C/ Grade 4" We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner's potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
Access to HE Diploma
60 credits with a minimum of 45 credits at Level 3, of which 30 must be at Distinction and 15 credits at Merit, to include 6 Distinctions in Music and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard* OR 60 credits with a minimum of 45 credits at Level 3, of which 24 to must be at Distinction and 21 credits at Merit, to include 6 Distinctions in Music and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard* *Equivalence to grade 8 is ascertained via audition. This can be done in person or by sending a video. We welcome students onto our programmes who are not at this level if their interests focus on other areas, such as composition, music technology and/or music history and ethnomusicology. We can accept a pass in Grade 5 Music Theory where Music is not studied as an accepted Level 3 qualification. We recognise Music practical and theory exams from ABRSM, Trinity, Rockschool and LCM. Specific offer is ascertained at interview. We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
Scottish Advanced Higher
Offers will be based on exams being taken at the end of S6. Subjects taken and qualifications achieved in S5 will be reviewed. Careful consideration will be given to an individual’s academic achievement, taking in to account the context and circumstances of their pre-university education. Please see the University of Southampton’s Curriculum for Excellence Scotland Statement for further information. Applicants are advised to contact Admissions for more information.
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma (first teaching from September 2016)
Distinction, Distinction in the BTEC National Diploma in Music plus B in an A level and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard* OR Distinction, Distinction in the BTEC National Diploma plus B in A level Music and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard* *Equivalence to grade 8 is ascertained via audition. This can be done in person or by sending a video. We welcome students onto our programmes who are not at this level if their interests focus on other areas, such as composition, music technology and/or music history and ethnomusicology. We can accept a pass in Grade 5 Music Theory where Music is not studied as an accepted Level 3 qualification. We recognise Music practical and theory exams from ABRSM, Trinity, Rockschool and LCM. Specific offer is ascertained at interview. We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme
Pass, with 32 to 30 points overall with 16 to 15 points at Higher Level, including 5 at Higher Level in Music and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard* *Equivalence to grade 8 is ascertained via audition. This can be done in person or by sending a video. We welcome students onto our programmes who are not at this level if their interests focus on other areas, such as composition, music technology and/or music history and ethnomusicology. We can accept a pass in Grade 5 Music Theory where Music is not studied at Higher Level. We recognise Music practical and theory exams from ABRSM, Trinity, Rockschool and LCM. Specific offer is ascertained at interview. We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme. International Baccalaureate Career Programme (IBCP): Offers will be made on the individual Diploma Course subject(s) and the career-related study qualification. The CP core will not form part of the offer. Where there is a subject pre-requisite(s), applicants will be required to study the subject(s) at Higher Level in the Diploma course subject and/or take a specified unit in the career-related study qualification. Applicants may also be asked to achieve a specific grade in those elements. Please see the University of Southampton International Baccalaureate Career-Related Programme (IBCP) Statement for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
WJEC Level 3 Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales
ABB to BBB from 3 A levels including Music and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard* or AB to BB from two A levels including Music and B from the Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard* Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking. *Equivalence to grade 8 is ascertained via audition. This can be done in person or by sending a video. We welcome students onto our programmes who are not at this level if their interests focus on other areas, such as composition, music technology and/or music history and ethnomusicology. We can accept a pass in Grade 5 Music Theory where Music is not studied as an accepted Level 3 qualification. We recognise Music practical and theory exams from ABRSM, Trinity, Rockschool and LCM. Specific offer is ascertained at interview. We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (first teaching from September 2016)
Distinction, Distinction, Merit in the BTEC National Extended Diploma in Music and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard* OR Distinction, Distinction in the BTEC National Extended Diploma plus B in A level Music and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard* *Equivalence to grade 8 is ascertained via audition. This can be done in person or by sending a video. We welcome students onto our programmes who are not at this level if their interests focus on other areas, such as composition, music technology and/or music history and ethnomusicology. We can accept a pass in Grade 5 Music Theory where Music is not studied as an accepted Level 3 qualification. We recognise Music practical and theory exams from ABRSM, Trinity, Rockschool and LCM. Specific offer is ascertained at interview. We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
Leaving Certificate - Higher Level (Ireland) (first awarded in 2017)
H2,H2,H3,H3,H3,H3
H3,H3,H3,H3,H3,H3
H2 H3 H3 H2 H3 H3 to H3 H3 H3 H3 H3 H3 including Music and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard* *Equivalence to grade 8 is ascertained via audition. This can be done in person or by sending a video. We welcome students onto our programmes who are not at this level if their interests focus on other areas, such as composition, music technology and/or music history and ethnomusicology. We can accept a pass in Grade 5 Music Theory where Music is not studied as an accepted Level 3 qualification. We recognise Music practical and theory exams from ABRSM, Trinity, Rockschool and LCM. Specific offer is ascertained at interview. We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate (first teaching from September 2016)
Distinction in the BTEC National Extended Certificate in Music plus AB to BB in two A levels and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard* OR Distinction in the BTEC National Extended Certificate plus AB to BB to include A level Music and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard* *Equivalence to grade 8 is ascertained via audition. This can be done in person or by sending a video. We welcome students onto our programmes who are not at this level if their interests focus on other areas, such as composition, music technology and/or music history and ethnomusicology. We can accept a pass in Grade 5 Music Theory where Music is not studied as an accepted Level 3 qualification. We recognise Music practical and theory exams from ABRSM, Trinity, Rockschool and LCM. Specific offer is ascertained at interview. We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
Cambridge International Pre-U Certificate - Principal
D3,M2,M2
M2,M2,M2
D3 M2 M2 to M2 M2 M2 in three principal subjects including Music and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard* *Equivalence to grade 8 is ascertained via audition. This can be done in person or by sending a video. We welcome students onto our programmes who are not at this level if their interests focus on other areas, such as composition, music technology and/or music history and ethnomusicology. We can accept a pass in Grade 5 Music Theory where Music is not studied as an accepted Level 3 qualification. We recognise Music practical and theory exams from ABRSM, Trinity, Rockschool and LCM. Specific offer is ascertained at interview. We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
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Fees and funding
| Region | Costs | Academic Year | Year | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EU, International | £0 | 2026/27 | Year 1 | |
| Channel Islands, England, Northern Ireland, Wales, Scotland, Republic of Ireland | £10,050 | 2026/27 | Year 1 |
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