Program Overview

Mathematics and Music BA

The Mathematics and Music BA program at the University of Birmingham is designed to combine precision and creativity, allowing students to explore two interconnected disciplines. This program enables students to develop their musical craft and critical thinking skills while studying advanced mathematics.

Course Overview

The program combines technical language and formulae with musical technique and practice. Students learn from world-leading music tutors and develop their critical thinking and independent learning skills.

Course Highlights

• Top 10 in the UK for Music (Complete University Guide 2026)
• Diverse modules, including Film Music Techniques and History, Music and Emotion, Mechanics, and Real and Complex Analysis
• Additional one-to-one instrumental and/or vocal tuition in each year
• Exploration of Birmingham's music venues, from the Birmingham Symphony Hall to the Jam House
• Option for a year in computer science within the course
• Industry connections with high-profile companies

Course Delivery

The program is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, practical assignments, and 1:1 supervision. Lectures provide an expert introduction to key topics, while seminars are small group discussions where students share and test ideas with their academic tutor and peers.

Support during Studies

• Personal Academic Tutors for guidance and support throughout studies
• Wellbeing Officers for help with extensions, disabilities, extenuating circumstances, or personal challenges
• Academic Writing Advisory Service for support in structuring arguments and developing academic voice
• Student Experience Team for research opportunities, cultural, intellectual, and social activities

Contact Hours and Assessment Methods

• 40 hours of learning each week, including lectures, seminars, independent study, revision, and assessments
• Various assessment methods, including coursework, group or individual presentations, projects, exams, reports, or computer-based assignments
• Timely feedback on each assessment to improve performance

Performance Lessons

• Year 1: 9 hours of tuition on one or two instruments/voice (optional, not for credit)
• Year 2: 20 hours of tuition on one or two instruments/voice plus additional professional piano accompaniment
• Year 3: 20 hours Special Subject on a single instrument/voice or 10 hours Independent Study on a single instrument/voice, plus additional professional piano accompaniment

Module Information

The program includes a range of modules, with the following compulsory modules in Year 1:

• Music and Ideas I
• Music and Ideas II
• Mathematical Foundations, Calculus, and Linear Algebra
• Probability, Data, and Statistics
• Techniques of Tonal Music 2
• Techniques of Tonal Music 1 Students must also take two of the following modules:
• Composing with Technology
• Instrumental Composition
• Introduction to Music and its Cultures I
• Introduction to Music and its Cultures II

Entry Requirements

• A Level: AAB with A level Music grade A and A level Maths grade A
• IB: 6,6,5 with 32 points overall, including HL 6 in Maths/Further Maths and HL 6 in Music
• BTEC: BTEC Extended Diploma: DDM, plus AA at A-level in the required subject/s
• English language requirements: IELTS 6.5 overall with no less than 6.0 in any band, or equivalent

Fees and Scholarships

• Tuition fee: £9,535 per year for domestic (UK) students for 2026/27
• Scholarships available for Home and International students
• Undergraduate loans available through the Student Loans Company

Career Opportunities

Mathematics and Music graduates have a range of knowledge and skills highly prized by graduate employers, including communication, lateral thinking, creativity, event management, entrepreneurship, analytical skills, and handling complex information. Example employers include the City of London Sinfonia, BBC, Barclays, and the Royal Opera House. Job titles include Freelance Performer and Educator, Lecturer/Music Teacher, Strategic Marketing Manager, and Film Composer.

Student Experience

The University of Birmingham offers a range of accommodation options, a vibrant campus life, and support services to ensure students have a fulfilling university experience. Students can also take advantage of flexible programs, combining subjects to shape their degree around their interests. The University is committed to providing the best possible support to its students, both before they start and throughout their time on campus.