University of Liverpool

What you'll study

This honours degree provides a mixture of practical and academic study across performance, composition, musicology and music technology. In the early stages you typically build core musicianship through individual tuition, ensembles, aural skills, harmony and introductory music history. Across the course you can expect modules in areas such as:

• Applied performance (one-to-one lessons and ensemble work)
• Composition and arranging for acoustic and electronic media
• Music theory, analysis and research methods
• Popular music studies and ethnomusicology
• Music technology, recording techniques and sound design
• Electroacoustic and studio practice
• Final-year individual project: dissertation, portfolio or recital

The programme is structured to develop practical skills and intellectual understanding in parallel. Students balance assessed performances, creative portfolios and written coursework, and the final year usually includes a substantial independent project which can take the form of a major recital, a recorded portfolio of compositions, or an extended research dissertation.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have a strong academic profile at secondary level. The programme considers A-levels, BTEC, Irish Leaving Certificate, international secondary qualifications and equivalent university entrance routes. All applicants must demonstrate musical experience and potential — typically through submission of a performance video or portfolio of compositions, and an audition or interview when invited. Applicants offering practical music qualifications (for example graded practical exams) should include evidence of achievement; prior study in music theory or history is helpful but not always required. International applicants must meet the University's English language requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with a flexible combination of practical and intellectual skills valued across the creative and cultural sectors. Typical career paths include:

• Performer in solo, ensemble or session contexts
• Composer, arranger or songwriter for media and live performance
• Music producer, recording engineer and sound designer
• Music education and teaching (often combined with postgraduate teacher training)
• Arts and music administration, promotion and event management
• Further study in specialised areas such as musicology, composition, music technology or music therapy (which requires specific postgraduate training)

Why study at University of Liverpool

The University of Liverpool offers an interdisciplinary music programme with experienced academic and professional staff and close links to the city’s lively music and cultural scene. Students benefit from dedicated teaching in performance, composition and technology supported by rehearsal spaces, recording facilities and regular performance opportunities. The department emphasises research-informed teaching and provides scope to pursue specialist interests, collaborate with students across arts disciplines, and engage with the city’s venues, ensembles and creative networks.