BA (Hons) Songwriting and Music Production

Program Overview

The BA (Hons) Songwriting and Music Production at BIMM University is an innovative three-year full-time undergraduate joint honours degree, meticulously designed for aspiring songwriter-producers and artists seeking to master both the creative process of songwriting and the technical artistry of music production. Offered across BIMM's vibrant UK campuses (Birmingham, Brighton, Bristol, London, Manchester) and in Berlin, Germany, this program provides a comprehensive education that bridges the gap between musical composition and studio execution. Students gain a deep understanding of songwriting techniques, including lyrical and melodic construction, harmony, and genre-specific writing, while simultaneously developing advanced skills in studio engineering, digital audio workstations (DAWs), mixing, and sound design. This integrated approach cultivates multi-talented professionals who are not only capable of crafting compelling original music but also possessing the technical proficiency to produce high-quality recordings, preparing them for dynamic and entrepreneurial careers in the modern music industry.

Curriculum: The curriculum for the BA (Hons) Songwriting and Music Production is thoughtfully structured across three years (Levels 4, 5, and 6) to provide a balanced development of both creative and technical skills. In the first year, core modules typically include "The Creative Industries and You: Finding Your Path," "Songwriting Techniques," "Creative Music Programming," "Audio Capture Methods & Equipment," "Styles & Genres," "Collaboration and Performance," and "Multitrack Mixing." These modules lay a strong foundation in songwriting fundamentals, digital music creation, and essential audio production. The second year builds upon this with modules such as "Defining Your Practice in Context," "Music Creation with Technology," "Studio Practice & Engineering," "Exploring Practice Through Collaboration," 1 and "Practical Acoustics," alongside two optional modules that allow for specialisation. The final year culminates in a significant "Final Project," "Answering a Creative Brief," and a "Professional Portfolio," supported by further optional modules. These options enable students to tailor their learning to specific interests in areas like "Game Sound & Music," "Electroacoustic Composition," or advanced mixing techniques, ensuring a highly bespoke educational journey.  

Research Focus: While the BA (Hons) Songwriting and Music Production program at BIMM University is highly practical and project-driven, it integrates a strong element of research and critical inquiry to develop informed and adaptable music professionals. The curriculum encourages students to investigate the theoretical and conceptual underpinnings of both songwriting and music production. Through modules and major assessments, particularly the "Final Project," students are guided to conduct in-depth research into areas such as historical and contemporary songwriting methodologies, the evolution of production techniques, acoustic principles, the impact of technology on music creation, and the analysis of various musical styles and genres. This involves developing critical thinking skills, evaluating diverse sources, and reflecting on their own creative and technical practices. This emphasis on research fosters an analytical and evidence-based approach, empowering graduates to make well-informed decisions in their creative work and contribute strategically to the artistic and commercial landscape of music.

Industry Engagement: Industry engagement is a cornerstone of the BA (Hons) Songwriting and Music Production program at BIMM University, providing unparalleled opportunities for practical experience and professional networking. Students are taught by an impressive roster of active industry professionals, including successful songwriters, music producers, audio engineers, and composers, who bring current insights and real-world case studies directly into the classroom. BIMM leverages its extensive network to facilitate unique opportunities for students to record in industry-standard studios, participate in collaborative projects with other BIMM disciplines (e.g., performers, music business students), and engage in work experience placements or internships within the music industry. Students regularly participate in masterclasses and workshops led by high-profile artists and influential industry figures, gaining invaluable insights and direct networking opportunities. BIMM's dedicated Creative Futures team further supports students with personalized career guidance and robust industry connections, ensuring graduates are highly employable and well-connected upon graduation.

Global Perspective: The BA (Hons) Songwriting and Music Production program at BIMM University inherently cultivates a strong global perspective, acknowledging the international reach and diverse influences within both songwriting and music production. By being offered across multiple campuses in the UK and in Berlin, Germany, the program exposes students to varied international music scenes, production methodologies, and cultural approaches to music creation. The curriculum explores global trends in songwriting, digital music production, and the nuances of creating and producing music for diverse international audiences. Students gain an understanding of how different territories contribute to and interact within the global music economy. BIMM's diverse student body, comprising individuals from numerous countries, creates a rich multicultural learning environment that encourages collaborative projects with varied creative and technical perspectives, preparing graduates to navigate and succeed in a truly global music landscape.