Program Overview

CertHE Music Production & Software Engineering

Overview

This course is the first year of our BSc (Hons) Music Production & Software Engineering degree. Unlock the full potential of your creativity by combining music production with software development in this unique, industry-backed CertHE 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.

Key Information

• Duration: 1 Year
• UCAS Code: MSC1
• Start Dates: October 2025, October 2026
• Institution Code: P73

Modules

• Music Production (Ableton)
• Music Production (Logic)
• Computational Thinking
• Sound Design
• Audio Processing
• Sound Engineering
• Programming in C++

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.

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.

• Audio Software Developer
• Plugin Developer
• Game Audio Programmer
• Sound Designer
• Creative Technologist
• Technology Entrepreneur
• Music / Media Producer
• MUSIC ARRANGER

Expert Lecturers

• James Malone - Sound Design
• Chris Nash - Programme Leader
• Chris Carter - Sound Design

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

• create.music
• STEP INSIDE THE MUSIC INDUSTRY

FAQs

• Do I need to buy software & equipment to take the course?
  • Depending on your programme, certain hardware and software will be essential throughout your studies. To help with your independent learning and assessment work, you will need to have access to this equipment outside of the campus. However, if you are able to attend classes on campus, this equipment will be available to use either in class or by booking practice time.
• Do I need a music or music technology qualification to apply?
  • Studying a music or music technology qualification before applying for one of our Higher Education courses would be beneficial, but is not a prerequisite.
• What is my weekly study schedule?
  • Each module requires your attendance at one daytime class which will be 3 or 4 hours long depending on the module. 3-hour classes will also have an additional 1-hour virtual seminar each week. You will also have two 30-minute tutorials with your lecturer per module per term for additional support. Your timetable will be confirmed a week before the start of each term. In addition to your classes and seminars, you are expected to schedule sufficient independent study and practice time each week. The school facilities are open 7 days a week during term time, allowing you to work on assignments and reinforce the knowledge and skills learned throughout the term.