| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2025-10-01 | - |
| 2026-10-01 | - |
| 2027-10-01 | - |
Program Overview
BSc (Hons) Music Production & Software Engineering (3 Years)
Course Overview
Unlock the full potential of your creativity by combining music production with software development in this unique, industry-backed degree course. Developed in consultation with industry giants such as Ableton and Focusrite, the objective is to develop professional, industry-ready developers that will have a profound impact on music and future technology in general. When joining this challenging course, you receive a specially designed FREE Music Software Development Kit (MDK). This includes a complete development system (quad-core Windows PC) with music and coding software, plus portable audio interface and a programmable input device.
Distinct from other music technology courses, BA (Hons) Music Production & Software Engineering equips you with a dual skill set, combining production techniques in Ableton Live or Logic Pro with the ability to design and develop your own audio plugins and effects in C++. By learning the skills to code, design and create your own music software platforms, applications and plugins, including synthesisers and effects from scratch to an advanced level, you are being prepared for professional practice at the cutting edge of new music technology. This course isn’t just about making music; it’s about pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, giving you full creative control from the first beat to the finishing touches of a mastering plugin. These transferable skills give you access to both technical and artistic careers in a cross-section of industries such as software and hardware development, professional audio, music and media plus any field of coding and computer science.
Key Information
- Duration: 3 Years
- UCAS Code: MS3Y
- Start Dates: October 2025, October 2026, October 2027
- Institution Code: P73
Modules
- Level 4:
- Music Production (Ableton)
- Music Production (Logic)
- Computational Thinking
- Sound Design
- Audio Processing
- Sound Engineering
- Programming in C++
- Level 5:
- Advanced Sound Design
- Digital Audio Effects
- Audio for Media & Games
- Software Instrument Design
- Creative Production & Remix
- Audio & Music Applications
- Level 6:
- Web Audio & User Interaction
- Emerging Technologies
- Software Engineering Projects
- Professional Portfolio (I)
- Professional Portfolio (II)
- Industry Collaboration
Teaching and Learning
On our higher education programmes, you will engage in a variety of sessions (up to 16 students) and seminars. In addition to these, you will be expected to engage in independent study. Independent learning is about conducting your own research, taking control of your work, finding out what you need to know, and directing your own study. During this time, you can take advantage of the following resources:
- Award-winning Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) with bespoke downloadable resources to support your lectures.
- State-of-the-art facilities and private practice spaces across two buildings.
- Tutorials with lecturers to help you focus on your assignments.
- Studio Lab Time with support staff (up to five per week depending on availability) to help you with your technical set up and assignments.
- Extra workshops with music industry professionals.
- Open Mic Nights and pointblank Choir.
Assessment
Assessment helps you gauge your progress, supports learning, and provides feedback. You will engage in the following types of assessment during this course:
- Formative exercises - these are designed to provide feedback on your work and help you improve.
- Summative assignments - these are designed to both assess your existing knowledge, and deepen your learning. They often simulate real industry scenarios, providing valuable experience with professional briefs.
To demonstrate your knowledge and skills, you will be asked to produce work in varying formats, depending on your course, including creative projects, compositions, performances, presentations, recordings, and written work.
Career Opportunities
Software engineering is a field that spans across various industries such as music, film, television, gaming, live events, and virtual reality. This diversity means that software engineers have a range of options when it comes to finding employment. Software developers are in high demand in the UK, offering great salaries and flexible work arrangements.
- Audio Software Developer
- Plugin Developer
- Game Audio Programmer
- Sound Designer
- Creative Technologist
- Technology Entrepreneur
- Music / Media Producer
- MUSIC ARRANGER
Free with Course
This course includes a free Music Software Development Kit (MDK) - including quad-core Windows 11 Pro mini-pc, portable audio interface, programmable input device, and music coding software - plus portable, high-performance development platform (14" Windows laptop). pointblank students also enjoy a range of exclusive discounts including but not limited to:
- 50% off NI Komplete, Ableton Live & Roland Cloud
- 30% off NI Kontrol & Maschine
- 25% off Adam Audio & Focusrite
Accreditations & Partners
- Developed in consultation with key industry manufacturers.
- Learn computer programming in a musical, creative environment using specially designed software tools.
- Plug into the pointblank ecosystem of artists, producers, managers, vocalists and more.
Point Blank Music School
Overview:
Point Blank Music School is a globally recognized institution offering music education in various disciplines. It has campuses in Los Angeles, London, Ibiza, Mumbai, and China, as well as an online platform. Point Blank specializes in music production, DJing, audio engineering, sound design, singing, songwriting, and music business.
Services Offered:
Point Blank offers a range of certificate and diploma programs, both in-person and online, across various music industry disciplines. These programs vary in duration, ranging from 3 months to 18 months. The school also provides access to professional-grade studios and Mac suites equipped with industry-standard software and hardware.
Student Life and Campus Experience:
The school provides access to professional-grade studios and Mac suites equipped with industry-standard software and hardware. Students can expect to learn from experienced instructors and have opportunities to network with industry professionals.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Industry-leading instructors:
Point Blank boasts a faculty of experienced professionals working in the music industry.State-of-the-art facilities:
Students have access to professional-grade studios and Mac suites equipped with industry-standard software and hardware.Global network:
Point Blank has a global network of schools and alumni, providing students with opportunities to connect with industry professionals worldwide.Point Blank Record Label:
The school has its own record label, offering students a platform to showcase their work and gain industry exposure.Academic Programs:
Point Blank offers a wide range of programs, including:
Music Production:
Covers various aspects of music production, including mixing, mastering, and sound design.Audio Engineering:
Focuses on the technical aspects of recording and sound engineering.DJing:
Provides training in DJ techniques, mixing, and performance.Singing and Songwriting:
Offers vocal training and songwriting techniques.Music Business:
Covers the business side of the music industry, including marketing, management, and licensing.Sound Design:
Focuses on creating sound effects for film, television, and video games.Film Scoring:
Provides training in composing music for film and television.Other:
Point Blank offers scholarships and bursaries to support students financially. The school also has a strong alumni network, with graduates working in various music industry roles.
