BMus/BSc (Hons) Music Computing
This programme is delivered jointly by the Departments of Music and Computing, and builds on their recognised expertise in the creative arts and the innovative application of computer science to stimulate and promote creative work.
Patricia Rosner, BMus in Music
3 years full-time; 4 years full-time with the third year spent on a placement in a relevant industry or institution; 4-6 years part-time.
WG34
BBB or equivalent; see entrance requirements for alternative qualifications.
An A2 level, or equivalent, qualification in Music or Music Technology is preferred, although we also accept applicants without a formal qualification in music who can demonstrate relevant knowledge and experience.
At interview stage you will be asked to present a portfolio of relevant recent work.
Most of our graduates choose careers in fields related to their musical knowledge: teaching, performing, arts administration, music librarianship, publishing and retailing, record companies and production, or technical work in radio or television. Statistically, music graduates demonstrate very good employment rates, because they are often highly trained in the kinds of transferable skills employers are seeking: individual motivation, team working, and effective communication.
Please see Undergraduate tuition fees.
What you Study
Throughout the programme you will encounter the most up-to-date technologies and programming methods, and explore current issues in programme design, sonic art, contemporary composition, music theory and musicology. You will study how computers listen and analyse sounds and music, how they can derive, generate or ‘invent’ processes and structures for music, and how such processes are rendered into music in the form of audio or printed musical text.
You will cultivate the critical, technical and intellectual skills needed to analyse problems, design and implement solutions on computers, and communicate your ideas in a variety of forms. You will also develop an awareness of diversity in music and the diversity of values, critical stances and analytical methods in their historical and cultural contexts. The programme encompasses a wide range of repertoires of music, offering modules that reference various aspects of film music, western art and contemporary music, popular music, ‘world’ music, sound art and electronic music. By exploring the interrelationships between theories of music and computing, and between theoretical understanding and creative practice, you develop the knowledge and skills to create your own independent research project in your final year.
Facilities: The Department of Computing has five laboratories equipped with PCs, Macs and a wide range of software packages for media and creative work. The Department of Music’s Electronic Music Studios comprise a suite of facilities, including a recording studio, two multi- channel rooms and a number of small studios equipped with audio software, including Pro Tools and Max/MSP. There are also two labs for sequencing, music processing and multimedia.
Application enquiries
Please see how to apply for information on applying to this programme.
Equivalent GCE A-level qualifications
| BTEC National Diploma |
Access courses |
Scottish qualifications |
European Baccalaureate |
International Baccalaureate |
Other requirements |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DDM | 60 Credits including 45 at level 3 | BBBBB (Higher)
BBB (Advanced Higher) |
70% | 6, 6, 5 at HL | You should be able to demonstrate achievement in practical musicianship. |