Program Overview

Music Production MA

Overview

The Music Production MA is a postgraduate course designed to develop the academic knowledge and practical skills required to succeed in the music and media production industry sectors. The course focuses on the development of professional expertise in music production, encompassing a range of specialisms and providing a dynamic field of postgraduate research activity.

Study Options

• Full-time: 1 year
• Part-time: 2 years

Fees

• UK fee: £9,720 for the full course (2025/26)
• International fee: £16,900 for the full course (2025/26)

Location

• Markeaton Street, Derby Campus

Course Description

The Music Production MA is a challenging course that develops the academic knowledge and practical skills required to succeed in the music and media production industry sectors. Music and sound production are integral to the creative industries sector, both in the UK and internationally, and are at the forefront of a diverse range of commercial, educational, and research developments.

What You Will Study

• Postgraduate Certificate:
  • Research Methods: Application and Evaluation (20 credits)
  • Perceptual Technologies (20 credits)
  • Music Production Systems (20 credits)
• Postgraduate Diploma:
  • CPD and Strategic Management (20 credits)
  • Studio Production (20 credits)
  • Optional module: Digital Signal Processing and Sound Design OR Negotiated Module (optional) (20 credits)
• MA:
  • Independent Scholarship (Technology) (60 credits)

How You Will Learn

• Student learning is associated with a range of activities, including the use of music workstations (DAWs), recording studios, as well as traditional lectures and seminars.
• Assessment is 100% coursework, with no exams.
• Assessment within each module would normally have a practical element with a written component.

Who Will Teach You

• Michael Brown: Programme Leader
• Dr. Paul Vandemast-Bell: Programme Leader for BSc Music Technology and Production
• Phil Baggaley: Programme Leader BA (Hons) Popular Music with Music Technology
• Mark Randell: Technical Instructor - Audio & Media

Entry Requirements

• An undergraduate degree (at least second class) in a relevant subject, or equivalent.
• A digital portfolio and a written statement describing your practice and ambitions.
• If English is not your first language, an IELTS score of 6.0 or equivalent.

Additional Costs and Optional Extras

• Included in your fees:
  • Additional access to wider University Arts' facilities
  • Adobe Creative Suite installed on all Macs
  • Individual Adobe Creative Cloud subscription for home use
  • LinkedIn Learning subscription
  • Specialist equipment and access to 2D/3D making workshops
  • Participation in the University Degree Show
• Mandatory costs not included in your fees:
  • Camera equipment (recommended)
  • Printing research material for journal work (approx. £100 per year)
  • Additional materials (printing, stationery, portfolio sleeves, folders, USBs/hard drives, etc.) (approx. £100-£300)
  • National trips (coach, approx. £8-£12; London, approx. £30+)
  • International trip (approx. £500)
• Optional costs not included in your fees:
  • Additional course-related publications (approx. £100)
  • Specialist software/hardware (up to £1500)
  • Final year project costs (determined by student, £200-£600)
  • Travel for work placement opportunities (costs vary depending on location)

International Student Scholarships

• A range of scholarships and discounts available to international students, which can be used together to offer a reduction in tuition fees.

How to Apply

• Apply directly to the University.
• Check application deadlines before applying.
• Submit a completed application and supporting documents (such as qualifications or references).
• Receive a response within 4 weeks of submitting your application.