BA (Hons) Music for Film, TV and Games Bachelor's degree at Institute of Contemporary Music Performance
BA (Hons) Music for Film, TV and Games at ICMP. You'll study core theory, research and methods, applied practice, specialist options, an independent project, and professional skills.
About this course
Explore the composition, production and creative techniques used in music for film, TV and games in this highly practical degree course. Find out more... From the provider’s course page.
BA (Hons) Music for Film, TV and Games is a Bachelor's degree (BA (Hons)) at ICMP, based in Dyne Road. It runs 3 years, studied full-time.
For Music graduates from this provider, 93% were in work or further study 15 months after graduating, 63% in highly skilled roles, typical earnings around £24,000. (HESA Graduate Outcomes / LEO, via Discover Uni.)
For the typical curriculum, specialisations, career paths and graduate earnings for Media & Communications, see the sections below.
Course evidence score
The arithmetic mean of the official measures available for this course: NSS satisfaction, graduate activity and continuation.
Published threshold met NSS publication requires sufficient responses; small differences are not a rank. NSS mean of 7 published themes (Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)
Limited evidence Published sample: 20; treat comparisons cautiously. Cohort 2022-23. Graduate Outcomes work or further study 93% (2022-23; Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)
Published threshold met Discover Uni suppresses continuation data below its publication threshold. Cohort 2022-23. Continuation 80% (2022-23; Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)
Curriculum & modules
Real modules published for this course, grouped only where the source gives a year, stage or level.
Year 1 (Level 4) 6 modules
- DAW Workflows for Media ProductionCore
Module details
Detailed introduction to Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) used by the industry for visual media music production. Examine technical and creative potential of DAWs, exploring processing techniques, signal routing, workflow optimisation and industry trends.
- Musical Language and TechniqueCore
Module details
Examine how music functions as a language through critical listening, applied music theory, appreciation and structured analysis. Explore range of styles and genres and apply knowledge to creative works.
- Environmental Soundscapes – Capture and ContextCore
Module details
Learn field recording methods and problem-solving techniques. Develop skills in capturing and manipulating audio from natural and urban environments. Create sound library for future creative projects.
- Studio Recording for Media CompositionCore
Module details
Introduction to core principles of studio recording and production. Experiment with audio for media by recording live instruments and examining key studio workflows such as working with outboard gear and audio routing.
- Music and the Moving Image – Short FormCore
Module details
Explore techniques, principles and creative approaches used in composing and producing music for short-form media such as trailers, commercials, promotional media, source music and idents.
- Sound Worlds – Synthesis, Sampling and Game AudioCore
Module details
Introduction to technical and creative foundations of sound design with focus on synthesis and its application across media formats of games, TV and film. Learn how sound shapes perception of visual media.
Year 2 (Level 5) 6 modules
- Virtual Scoring and ProductionCore
Module details
Develop expertise in digital music production with focus on MIDI mockups, sequencing and industry-standard workflows. Refine skills in programming, arranging and mixing to craft digital orchestrations and electronic soundscapes.
- Music and the Moving Image – Long-Form NarrativesCore
Module details
Explore creative, technical and professional dynamics involved in composing and producing music for long-form media such as films, TV episodes, videos and games. Examine how music supports narrative structures.
- Musical Communication: Composition and ArrangementCore
Module details
Advance ability to use music as a language for emotional communication. Analyse composition from historical and contemporary perspective. Explore theory behind broad spectrum of musical concepts.
- Sonic Worlds: Sound Design and FoleyCore
Module details
Explore sound design and foley creation. Experiment across narrative-driven approaches using foley staging and digital and analogue sound design. Deepen understanding of immersive sound and its workflows.
- Studio Sessions – Scoring StageCore
Module details
Explore art and technical craft of recording in professional studio environment with emphasis on cinematic and narrative-driven recording techniques. Gain practical studio-based experience with scoring stage process.
- Game Audio and Interactive SoundCore
Module details
Introduction to dynamic world of games industry and role of game music in enhancing player experience. Explore how music is created, integrated and tested within video games with focus on middleware software.
Year 3 (Level 6) 1 modules
- Capstone ProjectCore
Module details
Consolidate learning across programme by undertaking ambitious and self-directed creative project in area of personal interest. Could be game soundtrack, short film score, experimental audio-visual piece, audio branding suite or podcast series.
Source: provider course page. Modules can change; required/optional status, credits, descriptions and assessment are shown only when explicitly published.
Course in depth
What this course covers, who it suits and where it leads.
What you'll study
This course focuses on the composition, production and creative techniques used in music for film, TV and games. A course like this typically begins with foundational media theory and production skills, covering how the media industries operate and function financially. As you progress into the second year, you'll usually explore specialised areas such as film & TV, games & interactive, or production portfolio work, alongside research methods specific to media. In your final year, you'll typically undertake specialist options, industry projects, and a major production or dissertation that synthesises your creative and technical learning.
Who it's for
Most accepted students entered with A-levels or equivalent qualifications. The typical UCAS tariff band among recent entrants was less than 48 points.
University & format
The BA (Hons) Music for Film, TV and Games is delivered full-time over 3 years at Institute of Contemporary Music Performance, a UK university on Dyne Road. Teaching is conducted in English. The degree is a nationally recognised qualification from a recognised UK degree-awarding body. The course holds Silver for teaching quality in the Office for Students' Teaching Excellence Framework 2023.
Student satisfaction
How students on this course answered the National Student Survey, by theme.
Share of students responding positively.
Published threshold met NSS publication requires sufficient responses; small differences are not a rank. NSS mean of 7 published themes (Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)
Applicant information
The next application dates for this course, followed by facts the provider publishes.
- 2027 entryCompleted applications can be submitted
Your application needs a reference before you can send it.
- 2026 entryFinal date for 2026 applications
Applications must reach UCAS by 18:00 UK time.
- 2026 entryLast day to add a Clearing choice
Check that this course still has a vacancy before adding it.
- 2027 entryEqual-consideration deadline
18:00 UK time for most undergraduate courses.
Show 5 later dates
- 2027 entryUCAS Extra opens
Applicants who used all five choices and hold no offer may be able to add another choice.
- 2027 entryLast day applications go directly to providers
Applications received after 18:00 UK time are entered into Clearing.
- 2027 entryClearing opens
Eligible applicants can see vacancies and release themselves into Clearing.
- 2027 entryFinal date for 2027 applications
Applications must reach UCAS by 18:00 UK time.
- 2027 entryLast day to add a Clearing choice
Check that this course still has a vacancy before adding it.
Entry & how to get in
Who gets in
What recently admitted students actually held, official admissions data, not a stated requirement.
UCAS tariff of entrants
Grades are the A-level equivalent of each points band. Tap a band to check your own chances below.
Qualifications held on entry
| Qualification | Share |
|---|---|
| A-levels or equivalent | 42% |
| a previous degree | 21% |
| another higher-education qualification | 21% |
| No / unknown prior qualifications | 7% |
| a Baccalaureate | 4% |
| Other | 4% |
Entry & your chances
An honest read from the official entry data, plus your personal match.
Accepted students came in with a broad spread of qualifications and UCAS points. If you're worried about grades, this course has historically taken a wide range, and contextual offers may apply.
Will you get in? Plot your grades
Pick your predicted A-levels and watch your UCAS points land on the real spread of students admitted to this course.
Each bar is the share of admitted students in that UCAS-points band (lower → higher). Grades show the A-level equivalent.
Based on the official admitted-student tariff distribution. Many universities make contextual (reduced-grade) offers, so a result below the range doesn’t rule you out.
How to apply
Undergraduate applications go through UCAS. Here’s what matters for this course, the right deadline, the grades to aim for, and the steps in order.
- 1Register on UCAS Hub
Create your UCAS application and add this course (code W102). One application covers up to five choices.
- 2Write your personal statement
A single statement covers all your choices, so keep it broad enough for similar courses while showing genuine interest in this subject.
- 3Submit by 13 January 2027, 18:00 UK time
UCAS equal-consideration deadline for most undergraduate courses. Source: UCAS 2027 dates.
- 4Reply to your offers
When decisions are in, pick a firm (first) choice and an insurance (back-up) choice with slightly lower grades.
- 5Results day & confirmation
On results day (mid-August) your place is confirmed if you meet the offer. Just missed? Talk to the university, or find a place through Clearing.
Fees & funding
What this course costs and how UK student finance covers it.
Tuition per year
Provider fee page (England 2026/27 cap where not stated).
Check fees at ICMP →For students who normally live in England
2026/27 Student Finance England figures. Maintenance support is means-tested and this two-point view is not an entitlement calculator. The course total uses its published length and home fee where both are available; a missing full-time fee uses the clearly labelled England-cap scenario, while part-time fees and unknown lengths are never guessed. Use the official calculator. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland use separate systems: SAAS, Student Finance Wales, and Student Finance NI.
Starting on or after 1 January 2027?
The Lifelong Learning Entitlement is a separate system. A new learner’s tuition entitlement is currently stated as £39,160 (about 480 credits at 2026/27 fee levels), subject to prior study and eligibility. Check the official LLE guide.
Paying for it
- Tuition Fee Loan: can cover eligible tuition up to the applicable limit and is paid straight to the provider.
- Maintenance Loan: up to £10,830/yr away from home outside London (England, 2026/27), means-tested on household income.
- Repayment: 9% of income above £25,000, nothing below it; written off after 40 years.
- Earn alongside: most students work part-time in term, part-time roles on the StudySmarter job board.
England figures shown; Scotland, Wales & NI run their own schemes, check gov.uk.
Scholarships & bursaries you could qualify for
That does not mean no funding exists. Check the university directory for current amounts, eligibility and application dates.
We only display a named award when its provider source identifies the award and who it is for.
Still deciding what to study?
StudyKit brings course choice, applications and funding together in one place, with a personal AI assistant. Find what really fits you and start your UCAS application step by step.
Careers & earnings
What Media & Communications graduates actually earn, from real outcome data, 15 months, 3 years and 5 years after graduating.
Graduate earnings: this course
| When | Median | Typical range | Graduates |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 months after | £24,000 | £22,000 – £29,500 | 20 |
| 3 years after | £19,500 | £13,000 – £25,500 | 90 |
| 5 years after | £23,000 | £16,000 – £30,500 | 80 |
Nominal earnings for graduates of this course/subject at this provider. Limited evidence. Published sample: 20; treat comparisons cautiously. Cohort 2022-23.
Graduate outcomes, 15 months on: this course
- 1Graduate roleFirst role after the degree · 0–2 yrs
- 2Specialist / PractitionerWorking in media & communications · 2–5 yrs
- 3Senior / LeadLeading work and people · 5–10 yrs
- 4Head of / ExpertSenior leadership or deep expertise · 10+ yrs
How pay grows: this course vs Media & Communications nationally
National figures for Media & Communications graduates, HESA Graduate Outcomes (15 months) and the Longitudinal Education Outcomes (LEO) dataset (3 & 5 years). These are national, not university-specific; actual pay varies by employer, region, role and experience. Different cohorts, so the bars are not one group over time.
Work out your pay
Headline figures hide a lot. Calculate realistic take-home pay for this field by role, region and experience, then check your CV before you apply.
What happened to 100 students?
Choose an outcome to translate the published percentage into a simple 100-person view. Each dot represents one percentage point, not an individual tracked student.
were in work or further study
15 months after graduation
Source: Discover Uni, using Graduate Outcomes and continuation data. Cohorts: 2022-23. Limited evidence. Published sample: 20; treat comparisons cautiously. Cohort 2022-23. Each tab is a separate published measure; categories can overlap and should not be added together.
Value compared with similar courses
How this course’s 5-year median earnings compare with Media & Communications courses at the same study level.
Compared with 541 courses with compatible official earnings data. This is a course-value comparison, not a quality ranking.
UK occupations graduates enter
Published graduate destinations, joined conservatively to UK SOC 2020, ONS pay and Skills England demand.
- Artistic, literary and media occupationsSOC 2020 341 · 31% of published destinations · ASHE median £33,824
- Teaching ProfessionalsSOC 2020 231 · 14% of published destinations · ASHE median £42,660
- Business and public service associate professionalsSOC 2020 35 · 12% of published destinations · ASHE median £38,760
Discover Uni JOBLIST/JOBTYPE; ONS ASHE 2025 provisional, all employee jobs; Skills England Occupations in Demand 2025. SOC is shown only for an exact normalised label match; demand is shown only at exact four-digit SOC. Published sample: 155; response rate: 58%. Pay describes the occupation across workers, not a guaranteed graduate salary.
Is BA (Hons) Music for Film, TV and Games worth it?
Weigh it carefully. On these figures graduates of BA (Hons) Music for Film, TV and Games earn close to non-graduate pay, so on cost alone the course is slow to pay off.
Cumulative earnings vs. going straight to work at 18, counting tuition and 3 years of wages given up while studying. The model remains below break even after 30 years. This is a simplified gross-earnings comparison, not a forecast of cash loan repayments.
Model: this course’s own median graduate earnings (Graduate Outcomes / LEO) above the £24,000 non-graduate baseline (ONS), net of £9,790/yr over 3 years (published course home fee). Eligible England-domiciled students can apply for a Tuition Fee Loan; repayments are 9% only on income above the threshold, with anything left written off after 40 years. That makes the cash flow different from conventional commercial debt. Opportunity cost assumes £18,000 gross earnings forgone in each study year; figures are nominal and exclude tax, living costs, investment returns and loan interest. A simplified estimate. Earnings and actual fees vary by graduate, provider, fee status and UK nation.
Job market & outlook
How Media & Communications graduates fare in the labour market, and how AI is reshaping the work.
How AI is changing the work
AI doesn't replace the profession, it shifts it: routine tasks get automated, while judgement, working with people and using AI well become more valuable.
What AI takes off your plate
- Routine information gathering
- First-draft writing and summaries
- Standard analysis and admin
- Repetitive processing tasks
More human than ever
- Judgement and original thinking
- Working with and leading people
- Owning and sense-checking AI output
- Ethics and accountability
The strongest graduates pair subject depth with the ability to use AI tools critically.
Roles & employers
Where Media & Communications graduates typically go, indicative destinations from graduate career data. Each role links to live openings on the StudySmarter job board.
Roles graduates go into
Where they work
- Media companies
- Agencies
- In-house comms teams
- Broadcasters & charities
Jobs after this course
Current roles from the StudySmarter job board that suit Media & Communications graduates.
Media Operations, VP (Parental Leave Cover)WPP MediaMedia Relations ManagerCommonwealth War Graves CommissionMedia ManagerUS Tech SolutionsMedia Planning and Buying CoordinatorBurberryMedia Sales ExecutiveService ServiceMedia Planner/BuyerDifferent Technologies Pty Ltd.Is this course right for you?
The essentials UK applicants ask about: finance, outcomes, entry and quality.
Student finance
Published home tuition is £9,790/year for this course. If you normally live in England, eligible students can apply for a Tuition Fee Loan, plus a Maintenance Loan for living costs. Under Plan 5 you repay 9% of income above £25,000, nothing below that, and the balance is written off after 40 years.
Where graduates go
93% were in work or further study 15 months after graduating, with a median salary of £24,000. See the full breakdown in Careers & earnings above.
Your entry chances
Use the UCAS points calculator above to see how your predicted grades compare with admitted students, and whether a contextual offer could apply.
Official-data snapshot
Averaging the official measures published for it, this course scores 8.4 out of 10: NSS 77.7% · in work or study 93% · continued 80%.
Who studies here and in this subject?
Provider- and UK subject-level context.
Institute of Contemporary Music Performance
Media, journalism and communications across the UK
HESA student record 2024/25. Counts are rounded.
Local crime-data context
A neutral snapshot around the published teaching location.
Around Dyne Road
3,638 street-level reports returned within roughly one mile across 2026-04 to 2026-06.
Police.uk street-level API. Approximate locations, not confined to campus. England, Wales and Northern Ireland; not Scotland.
Is Media & Communications right for you?
Tick what applies to you and see how good a fit it is.
International students
What applying to ICMP from outside the UK involves: fees, English, visa, funding and living costs.
Tuition fees
International tuition is set per course by ICMP; international fees are typically £12,000–£30,000/year for classroom subjects and higher for lab/clinical ones. You’re not eligible for UK Tuition Fee or Maintenance Loans, so plan for fees plus living costs upfront.
English language
Most UK undergraduate courses ask for around IELTS 6.0–6.5 (no band below 5.5–6.0), or an accepted equivalent. If you’re just short, most universities run a pre-sessional English course that counts towards the requirement.
Student visa
You’ll usually need a Student visa (Student Route). After you accept an offer the university issues a CAS; you then show funds for fees plus about £1,023–£1,334/month living costs and pay the Immigration Health Surcharge for NHS access.
Scholarships & funding
Many universities offer international/global scholarships (often £2,000–£6,000/yr), check ICMP’s funding pages.
Living costs
Budget roughly £1,100–£1,400/month outside London and £1,400–£1,800/month in London for rent, food and travel; the figure also matters for your visa.
Working while you study
A Student visa usually allows up to 20 hours/week in term time and full-time in holidays, useful alongside study, though not something to rely on for fees.
Visa rules and fees change. Always confirm the current requirements with ICMP and gov.uk before you apply.
Related courses
More at ICMP
Common questions
How competitive is entry?
What are the entry requirements?
What do graduates go on to do?
What will it cost me?
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