StudyLink logoHome
Students on a university campus

Music Pathways in the UK

Highlighted course

Music Foundation Year Foundation

Northumbria University Newcastle United Kingdom

Find out more

Art, Design, Film, Media and Music University Foundation Studies Course UG:Foundation

University of Hertfordshire (UH) United Kingdom

Find out more

Music (W300) HND

Bradford College United Kingdom

Find out more See all matching courses

Audio and Music Technology FdSc

Nottingham Trent University (NTU) United Kingdom

Find out more See all matching courses

Foundation Degree in Popular Music FdA

Birmingham City University United Kingdom

Find out more

Electronic Music Production Foundation Degree

Leeds Conservatoire United Kingdom

Find out more See all matching courses

Applied Music Practice FdA

University of Sunderland United Kingdom

Find out more

Music Production HND

University of Northampton (UON) United Kingdom

Find out more

Drama Foundation - Musical Theatre UG:Foundation

Cambridge School of Visual & Performing Arts United Kingdom

Find out more See all matching courses

Foundation Degree Creative Music Production and Business FdA

University of Westminster United Kingdom

Find out more

Musical Theatre FdA, BA (Hons), CertHE

Teesside University United Kingdom

Find out more

Independent Study Programme Foundation

Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance United Kingdom

Find out more

Acting Foundation UG:Foundation

Regent's University London United Kingdom

Find out more
All Music Pathways for International Students

Looking for your first degree in Music? See All Bachelors degrees in Music

Alternatively if you are looking for graduate level options? See All Masters degrees in Music

Study a Music Pathways or Foundation Programme in the UK

A student looking to study a degree in music should have at least some experience of their chosen instrument or specialisation. A music degree is perfect for any student who is passionate about music, and wishes to further their theoretical and practical knowledge.

As a music student, you will not only study the practical training of your instrumental skills, you will also develop your knowledge of musical theory. This might include music history, performance, arrangement, harmony and music technology.

Your degree will be delivered in a mixture of modes. These could include lectures and seminars, as well as practical projects and performance opportunities. There may be an option for you to participate in a work placement, but this is not guaranteed.

Depending on where you choose to study, you may be able to specialise towards the end of your degree. This specialisation can be a chance to experience different elements of studying music, and potentially influence your future career. Common specialisations include:

  • Music Education
  • Composition
  • Music Therapy
  • Film Scoring
  • Music Production and Engineering
  • Genre Specialisations (e.g. Jazz, Classical, etc.)

If your degree requires you to write a dissertation or participate in a final project, this will give you the chance to further explore a chosen area of music.

The accreditation of your degree will depend on where you choose to study. Different countries can have different accreditation systems. Typically, you can expect to be awarded a Bachelor of the Arts (BA), or a Bachelor of Music (BMus).

An undergraduate degree in music will normally take three to four years. Foundation degrees, diplomas and certificates can last up to two years when studied full-time.

Once you have successfully completed your undergraduate degree, you can choose to either seek employment in your chosen area, or further your studies. Continuation of your studies could be in the form of a postgraduate degree, such as a masters or PhD, or a graduate certificate or diploma.

Studying for a music degree will allow you to hone your instrument specific skills, and improve your ability practically and theoretically. You will be able to pursue a career in private teaching, performing and working on your own music. As well as this, you could work in the management of professional musicians, work in radio, or in sound production.

However, you would not be limited to working in music. The wide range of transferable skills gained throughout your degree will mean that you can find employment in many different sectors. You will have developed skills in critical reflection, self-management, creative thinking, organization, and effective communication, both orally and written.

Study in the UK

The UK is a popular destination for international students who want to study abroad. With a wide range of universities offering a variety of courses, there are so many opportunities that students might not be able to find elsewhere. Each university will pride itself on offering high quality education from leading teaching professionals. A qualification gained in the UK will be well regarded across the globe, making an education in the UK a great investment in your future. As well as this, there are many highly ranked universities in the UK, around 17 of which are consistently appearing in the top 100 of the QS World University Rankings.

See our detailed guide to studying in the UK for international students.

Sign up to StudyLink.com

Sign up to StudyLink.com, the home of quality study abroad advice.

Sign up now
Students with books and test tubes

International study advice

Read our selection of advice articles for those looking to start on their study abroad adventure. Covering topics from study visas, applications, funding and choosing the right course and institution:

World map on a blackboard
Deciding to study abroad: The first steps

Read StudyLink's suggestions on your first steps when deciding where to study abroad, with helpful tips to make your decision easier.

A camera, a visa and a world map
International Study Visas

Find out more about international student visas for studying abroad, as well as how, where and when to apply for yours.

Person holding a compass
How to choose the ideal study destination for you

In this article we look at how to approach choosing where in the world you would like to study.

Students reading a book
English Language Testing for International Students

Find out more about English language tests, your options and what is required as an overseas student.

More Advice and Guidance for Studying Abroad