Music Technology (Music Industry Skills - Technology) Diploma level 2

This course is for those seeking a technical career in the music industry including recording studio engineers, modern computer producers, radio, TV and film sound and sound equipment manufacturing. You'll gain a broad overview of all of the creative and technical aspects that music technology has to offer. We also have excellent equipment in our sound studios and Mac Suites. If you are aged 16 to 18, you will be enrolled on a study programme. This will include retaking GCSEs or undertaking Functional Skills in English and maths if you haven't already achieved a grade 4 or above. You will take part in activities that help you to develop your personal skills, such as building your character and confidence. This will help you to live well and move into your chosen career. If you are 16-19 years old these activities will be timetabled as will work experience and placement. You can also choose to take part in other activities. For other age groups, activities will be tailored to your needs.

The course is highly practical and centres around teaching you the underpinning elements of being a Music Technologist. During the year you will learn subjects relevant to a career in sound engineering and music production including recording studio theory and practice, the music industry, computer music production, contextual studies and composition. You will work with students on our music courses in recording projects at least twice a year. You will need to commit to at least five hours practice in your own time each and every week, which is vital for you as a producer. The course is highly practical and centres around teaching you the underpinning elements of being a Music Technologist. During the year you will learn subjects relevant to a career in sound engineering and music production including recording studio theory and practice, the music industry, computer music production, contextual studies and composition. You will work with students on our music courses in recording projects at least twice a year. You will need to commit to at least five hours practice in your own time each and every week, which is vital for you as a producer.

Assessment is via coursework completed over the year. You will need to evidence in your work that your skills and understanding are sufficient to pass each unit or achieve higher grades. Examples of assessment include remixes, finished tracks, reports and presentations. Students are assessed in many different ways to help develop broad academic skills needed for further study and application in industry.

Entry to this course requires four GCSEs at grade 3 (D) including English (essential) and maths (desirable). You will be required to provide one reference and it is desirable that you can demonstrate 90% attendance at your last place of work or study. You will be invited to attend a welcome event where you will participate in an audition to demonstrate that you have a suitable interest in music technology either through recordings, live sound or computer music activities you have tried already. The audition is also to support your careers choice and ensure that we place you on the right programme for you. Consideration will be given to all applicants over the age of 19 who do not hold formal English and maths qualifications.

Typically, students continue onto the Music Technology Extended Diploma level 3, which covers a broader range of music technology subjects in more depth. With suitable professional skills, after the level 2 course, you can progress into the sound, music and broadcast industries in roles such as a producer or recording engineer.