University of Hull

What you'll study

This programme combines technical training in recording and music production with creative work in composition, songwriting and sound design. You will learn to use industry-standard digital audio workstations and studio hardware, develop critical listening and mixing skills, and explore production for different contexts such as recorded music, film, TV and games.

• Core production techniques: microphone and signal chain management, multitrack recording, editing and mixing practices.
• Digital audio workstations and software: hands-on tuition in common DAWs and plugins, virtual instruments and MIDI production workflows.
• Sound design and post-production: synthesis, sampling, Foley, soundscapes and audio post for picture.
• Music theory and composition: harmony, arrangement, songwriting craft and scoring for media.
• Live sound and performance: front-of-house and monitor mixing, stage management and live recording techniques.
• Music business and entrepreneurship: copyright, royalties, promotion, freelance practice and project management.
• Collaborative modules and professional practice: group projects simulating client briefs, briefs for media, and opportunities to build a professional portfolio and showreel.
• Final major project: an extended production or composition portfolio demonstrating technical and creative skills, often completed with industry-standard delivery formats.

Study is studio- and project-based, with workshops, seminars, one-to-one tutorials and assessed practical outputs. The programme typically runs over three years full-time, with an option in some pathways to undertake a placement or year in industry to gain professional experience.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a relevant Level 3 qualification such as A-levels, BTEC National Diploma or an equivalent qualification. Admissions will consider a combination of academic attainment and practical experience; applicants are normally asked to submit a portfolio or recordings demonstrating musical and technical ability, and may be invited for an interview or audition. Mature applicants and those with non-traditional backgrounds are welcome; recognized prior learning and relevant industry experience are considered.

As with most undergraduate programmes, GCSE English and mathematics at standard passes are typically required or equivalent qualifications for applicants who completed secondary education elsewhere. International applicants should demonstrate English language proficiency in line with standard UK higher-education requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to a wide range of roles across the creative and audio industries. Typical career paths include:

• Record producer, mixing engineer, recording engineer
• Sound designer and audio editor for film, TV and games
• Live sound engineer, tour technician or front-of-house engineer
• Audio post-production and dialogue editing
• Music publisher, A&R assistant, music marketing or artist management roles
• Composer for media, freelance songwriter or session musician
• Studio manager or technical support roles in commercial studios and broadcast facilities

The emphasis on building a professional portfolio, collaborative projects and optional placement opportunities helps students move directly into employment, freelance practice or further study such as specialised master’s degrees in music technology or composition.

Why study at University of Hull

The University of Hull offers dedicated music studios, control rooms and rehearsal spaces equipped for contemporary production and live recording. Teaching is delivered by staff with both academic and industry experience, combining practical tuition with insights into the working realities of the music business.

Students benefit from opportunities to work on real briefs, collaborate with performers and media students, and access support for enterprise, placements and careers. Hull’s regional cultural scene and connections with local venues, broadcasters and media projects provide platforms for live performance, internships and networking. The programme’s focus on portfolio development ensures you graduate with demonstrable work ready for employers or self-directed projects.