BA (Hons) Popular Music

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: International students applying for undergraduate programs at the University of Northampton are typically required to have a minimum academic achievement of 60% or above in their secondary school or equivalent qualifications.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
• TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 70, with at least 17 in Listening, Reading,  Speaking, and Writing.
• PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 65 with no individual score below 59.

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

The University of Northampton offers various scholarships and financial aid opportunities to support international students in their academic journey. These scholarships aim to recognize outstanding academic achievements, promote diversity, and provide assistance to those who may face financial constraints. 

International Scholarships: The university offers a range of international scholarships specifically designed for international students. These scholarships are merit-based and provide partial tuition fee waivers. The eligibility criteria, award amounts, and application processes may vary.

Chancellor's Scholarships: The Chancellor's Scholarships are prestigious awards offered to high-achieving international students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance and potential. These scholarships provide a significant reduction in tuition fees and are highly competitive. Eligible students are automatically considered for this scholarship based on their application for admission.

Country-Specific Scholarships: The University of Northampton also offers scholarships specifically tailored to students from certain countries or regions. These scholarships may be in partnership with governments, organizations, or educational institutions from those countries. The eligibility criteria, application process, and award amounts may vary depending on the specific scholarship.

Subject-Specific Scholarships: Some academic departments at the university may offer subject-specific scholarships to international students. These scholarships are typically based on academic excellence in a particular field of study. Students pursuing specific courses or disciplines may be eligible for these scholarships.

External Scholarships and Funding: In addition to the university's own scholarships, international students can also explore external funding options, such as government scholarships, corporate sponsorships, and charitable organizations. The university's international office or scholarship team can provide guidance and information on external funding opportunities available to international students.

It is important to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines may change from year to year. 

Graduates of the BA (Hons) Popular Music program from the University of Northampton have a wide range of exciting career opportunities in the music industry and related fields. With a solid foundation in music theory, performance, production, and business, graduates are well-prepared to pursue diverse roles within the music industry.

Professional Musician/Performer: Many graduates choose to pursue careers as professional musicians or performers, either as solo artists or members of bands and ensembles. They perform live concerts, gigs, and events, showcasing their musical talents and entertaining audiences across various venues and platforms. Professional musicians may specialize in specific genres of popular music, such as rock, pop, jazz, or electronic dance music, and may work as session musicians or touring artists.

Songwriter/Composer: Graduates may work as songwriters or composers, creating original music compositions for artists, bands, films, television shows, commercials, and other media projects. They collaborate with lyricists, producers, and performers to develop songs and instrumental pieces that express emotions, convey messages, and resonate with audiences. Songwriters/composers may work independently as freelancers or for music publishing companies, production studios, or entertainment agencies.

Music Producer/Engineer: Some graduates pursue careers as music producers or audio engineers, specializing in recording, mixing, and mastering music productions for artists and bands. They work in recording studios, production houses, or as freelance professionals, collaborating with musicians to achieve the desired sound and aesthetic for their recordings. Music producers/engineers may also oversee the technical aspects of music projects, including equipment setup, sound editing, and post-production effects.

Music Educator/Teacher: Graduates with a passion for teaching and sharing their musical knowledge may work as music educators or teachers in schools, colleges, community centers, or private music schools. They design and deliver music lessons, workshops, and masterclasses, imparting theoretical knowledge, instrumental techniques, and performance skills to students of all ages and levels. Music educators may also coach ensembles, conduct music rehearsals, and organize recitals and concerts to showcase students' talents.

Music Journalist/Blogger: Some graduates may pursue careers as music journalists, bloggers, or critics, writing reviews, features, and articles about music artists, albums, concerts, and trends. They work for music publications, websites, blogs, or as freelancers, sharing their insights, opinions, and analysis of the music industry with audiences worldwide. Music journalists/bloggers may also conduct interviews with artists, cover music events, and contribute to music podcasts, radio shows, or documentaries.

Music Business Professional: Graduates may work in various roles within the music business sector, including artist management, music marketing, A&R (Artist and Repertoire), music publishing, or event management. They work for record labels, talent agencies, music publishing companies, or as independent entrepreneurs, helping artists and musicians navigate the complexities of the music industry, promote their work, negotiate contracts, and manage their careers effectively.

Music Entrepreneur/Startup Founder: Some graduates may choose to start their own music-related businesses or startups, leveraging their creative talents and industry knowledge to launch innovative ventures in areas such as music production, event promotion, artist management, or music technology. Music entrepreneurs may develop online platforms, apps, or services that connect artists with audiences, facilitate music distribution, or provide resources and support to emerging musicians.

Music Therapist: Graduates may pursue careers as music therapists, using music interventions to promote health, well-being, and healing in individuals with physical, emotional, or cognitive challenges. They work in healthcare settings, schools, rehabilitation centers, or community organizations, conducting music therapy sessions, assessing clients' needs, and designing personalized interventions that address clients' therapeutic goals and improve their quality of life.