This course offers students a specialist pathway designed to support progression into relevant occupational areas of music, or on to degree-level study.
Holders of the Level 4 Higher National Certificate will develop a sound understanding of the principles in their field of study and will have learned to apply those principles more widely. You will learn to evaluate the appropriateness of different approaches to solving problems within the music industry.
You will also learn to perform effectively in your chosen field and will have the qualities necessary for employment in situations requiring the exercise of personal responsibility and decision-making.
A guidance of 32 UCAS points is needed to apply for the course.
It is also desirable that you have at least a Level 2 qualification in English and Maths (for example, a grade 4 at GCSE).
Academic qualifications – you will require one of the following:
- A BTEC Level 3 qualification or equivalent (such as A-Levels)
- An access to higher education certificate received from an approved further education institution
- Related work experience
Mature learners may present a more varied profile of achievement that is likely to include extensive work experience and/or achievement of a range of professional qualifications in their work sector.
All candidates will be interviewed and auditioned prior to an offer being made.
Accreditation of prior learning - if you have achieved a qualification such as a HNC, or have gained credit at another Higher Education provider, you may be able to enter the course at Level 5.
| Study level | Cost | Additional fees |
|---|---|---|
| 19+ | please enquire | In some cases, instrumentalists will need their own equipment. Guitarists and bass guitarists would need to bring their own instruments, as with brass, woodwind or string players. We also try to arrange course-related trips, which are not covered in the course fees. |
A variety of teaching and learning methods will be used that encourage learners’ creative and musical development.
Methods used will encourage both individual and collaborative learning through the use of practical workshops, live performance projects, interactive lectures, seminars, guest lectures, tutorials, discussion and critiques and rehearsals.
Students will critically reflect on their own development of skills and performance and that of others.
There will be opportunities presented to attend a variety of shows, encompassing different genres.
Assessment can by via the form of live performance work, ensemble sessions, presentations, portfolios, essays, podcasts, online blogs and practical demonstrations.
It is desirable that you have a Level 2 in English and Maths (e.g. GCSEs at grade 4 or above).
We have exceptional relationships with professional venues, studios and other educational establishments that you will benefit from during your time on the course.
Timetables are available at enrolment. Please note that while we make every effort to ensure timetables are as friendly as possible, teaching can take place on any weekday.
The purpose of Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Music is to develop students as professional, self-reflecting individuals able to meet the demands of employers in the music industry and adapt to a constantly changing world. The qualification aim to widen access to higher education and enhance the career prospects of those who undertake them.
All modules run throughout semesters 1 and at 2 Level 4:
- The Music Industry
- Marketing and Promotion for Musicians
- Professional Development
- Performance
The programme gives you an extremely well-rounded skill set from industry professionals. You could either gain employment in the music industry or continue studies to achieve BA (Hons) via a top-up year.
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(*Based on 16-18 year olds destination data, 2019/20 academic year)
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Summer 2021
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Destination data for Sunderland College 2019/20, Apprentice completers.
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