BA (Hons) Digital Music Bachelor's degree at Southampton Solent University
BA (Hons) Digital Music at SSU. You'll move between core theory, applied practice, specialist options and independent project work, building both technical knowledge and professional skills relevant to today's music sector.
About this course
Learn production, composition, music theory and performance from producers and musicians on this degree, and join digital music and sound design industry. From the provider’s course page.
BA (Hons) Digital Music is a Bachelor's degree (BA (Hons)) at SSU, based in East Park Terrace. It runs 3 years, studied full-time.
For Music graduates from this provider, 85% were in work or further study 15 months after graduating, 45% in highly skilled roles, typical earnings around £22,000. (HESA Graduate Outcomes / LEO, via Discover Uni.)
For the typical curriculum, specialisations, career paths and graduate earnings for Music & Performing Arts, 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: 25; treat comparisons cautiously. Cohort 2022-23. Graduate Outcomes work or further study 85% (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 one 4 modules
- Open the DAW to SuccessCore
Module details
Through this module students will learn about the DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) with an emphasis on creative audio techniques and practices, and consider/employ fundamental compositional ideas/theories, basic MIDI-related functions and mixing rudiments into their work.
- The Sonic AlchemistCore
Module details
This module aims to equip students with the skills and knowledge to manipulate/control the timbral qualities of a sound by considering the principles of audio synthesis and sound design within a DAW and/or using hardware synthesisers. It will also address music composition and related MIDI/DAW functions, so as to be able to deploy appropriate synthesis elements/new patch-creation within a musical context.
- Everything's a Remix: Finding Your SoundCore
Module details
This module aims to develop students' skills in creatively reinterpreting existing musical material through contemporary remix practices. It encourages ethical use of audio, integration of original and recorded elements, and professional production standards, while supporting the development of a personal creative identity.
- Music that Slaps: The Art of MixingCore
Module details
Mixing is one of the most important and least understood aspects of the production process, with a mix really 'making or breaking' a track. The mix will ultimately determine how a piece of produced music translates in any given environment, how the various elements of a track interact, and how the listener perceives the result. Students will ultimately aim to produce balanced stereo mixes within this module; in keeping with industry standards.
Year two 5 modules
- Cinematics: Digital Music and Sound for FilmCore
Module details
In this module, students will study the basics of creating original music, recording Foley and developing sound FX/sound design for film and/or related media. Topics covered will include traditional music practices, and how these can be combined with contemporary music production techniques to produce appropriate music that will support audiovisual media.
- Artistry to IndustryCore
Module details
This module aims to help bridge the gap between the aspiring music producer and professional digital artist. Students will consider the breadth of the music/creative industries, various music legalities, different income streams available to the contemporary digital artist/business, as well as developing important transferable skills appropriate to commercial and industry-related employment and promotion.
- Live Lab SessionsCore
Module details
This module aims to develop students' skills, confidence, and professional awareness in performing original music live using digital technologies. Students will cultivate creative decision-making, technical competence with DAWs and MIDI controllers, and the ability to plan and deliver effective live performances.
- DJ Lab: Find Your GrooveOptional
Module details
This module aims to develop students' practical and creative skills in DJing while fostering an understanding of its cultural and industry context. Students will cultivate technical competence, creative decision-making, and professional awareness in live performance settings. The module also encourages critical reflection on musical choices, performance practice, and the wider role of DJ culture in contemporary music.
- Game AudioOptional
Module details
Within this module you will explore the way that sound is recorded, produced, manipulated and encoded within a video game. You will study some of the key systems and technologies currently in use for production and encoding of game audio and music, as well as examining the driving factors which are pushing these technologies forward.
Final year 4 modules
- Spatial Mixing and MasteringCore
Module details
This module provides an opportunity to experience audio mastering practices, and introduces spatial audio in alignment with industry developments, topics such as Dolby Atmos are explored in our specialist studios.
- Co-LabCore
Module details
Within this module, students are given the opportunity to underline the professional nature and direction of their creative work through the development of an individually-negotiated programme of study. Co-Lab is a synthesis of the students' practical, theoretical and music/aural skills, culminating in the production of a specific body of work, carried out in collaboration.
- Artist BlueprintCore
Module details
Within this module, students will develop their own professional brand and launch their music, product or service worldwide via online mediums, bridging the gap between the aspiring music producer and professional digital artist; students already being 'visible' within the music and/or creative industries prior to completing their studies.
- Professional Project: Your Industry Calling CardCore
Module details
In readiness for their desired future career within the music/creative industry, students are to produce an industry-focussed, music/sound-related artefact or portfolio, showcasing their key musical/production strengths, skills and proficiencies - ready to share with prospective employers upon graduation.
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 degree combines production, composition, music theory and performance taught by producers and musicians active in the digital music and sound design industry. You'll usually begin with performance lessons, ensemble work and core musicianship, harmony, aural skills and analysis of repertoire from early music to contemporary work. In year two, you'll develop composition and music technology skills through writing, producing and studio craft, alongside pedagogy and community music practice. By year three, a course like this normally moves towards specialist pathways such as performance, composition, musicology or music production, alongside professional development in the business of music and a final recital or major project. Throughout, you'll build practical and analytical skills applicable to digital music contexts.
Who it's for
This course suits you if you're drawn to music-making, sound creation or music technology, and you want hands-on learning from practitioners. You'll thrive here if you're curious about how music is produced and composed, and if you're willing to engage with both the theory underpinning the work and its real-world application. You should be comfortable working on independent projects alongside structured study, and ready to develop the professional skills the industry expects. If you want to understand how to create, analyse and shape digital music professionally, this is a fitting path.
Careers & job market
Across Music & Performing Arts courses nationally, 90% of graduates are in work or further study 15 months after completing their degree. Around 55% of those working are in highly skilled roles or pursuing further study. National graduate earnings data shows starting salaries of £20,000–£28,000 at 15 months post-graduation, rising to £19,975–£28,200 after five years. Earnings vary significantly depending on your specialism, location and career choice.
University & format
Southampton Solent University is a university located in East Park Terrace. The BA (Hons) Digital Music is a three-year full-time degree taught in English. As a recognised UK degree-awarding body, the degree is nationally recognised. The university holds Gold for teaching quality in the Office for Students' TEF 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.
Provider-published requirement; check the linked course page before applying.
The provider publishes contextual-offer information. Eligibility and any reduced offer are applicant-specific.
Placement year. Availability, selection and pay can vary.
See and book current events. Dates can fill or change.
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 | 90% |
| No / unknown prior qualifications | 5% |
| Other | 5% |
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 DM01). 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 SSU →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 Music & Performing Arts 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 | £22,000 | £18,000 – £24,000 | 25 |
| 3 years after | £18,500 | £14,000 – £21,000 | 130 |
| 5 years after | £22,000 | £17,000 – £28,000 | 135 |
Nominal earnings for graduates of this course/subject at this provider. Limited evidence. Published sample: 25; 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 music & performing arts · 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 Music & Performing Arts nationally
National figures for Music & Performing Arts 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: 25; 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 Music & Performing Arts courses at the same study level.
Compared with 527 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 · 30% of published destinations · ASHE median £33,824
- Skilled trades occupationsSOC 2020 5 · 15% of published destinations · ASHE median £34,241
- Elementary occupationsSOC 2020 9 · 10% of published destinations · ASHE median £19,087
- Process, plant and machine operativesDiscover Uni category · 10% of published destinations
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: 65; response rate: 55%. Pay describes the occupation across workers, not a guaranteed graduate salary.
Job market & outlook
How Music & Performing Arts 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 Music & Performing Arts 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
- Orchestras & ensembles
- Schools & conservatoires
- Studios & venues
- Media & freelance
Jobs after this course
Current roles from the StudySmarter job board that suit Music & Performing Arts graduates.
Music Tech Beta Liaison & Support SpecialistinMusic Brands, Inc.Music QTSColmore Education Recruitment LtdMusic Teachers in HuddersfieldAcademicsMusic Rights Operations & Data Services LeadPPLMusic Engagement Officer - Alternative Provision · Coventry MusicMusiceducationukMusic Audio & Tech Support Desk SpecialistMandarin RecruitmentIs this course right for you?
The essentials UK applicants ask about: finance, outcomes, entry and quality.
Student finance
For comparison, the standard full-time England tuition cap is up to £9,790 per year in 2026/27; the actual fee varies by course and provider. 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
85% were in work or further study 15 months after graduating, with a median salary of £22,000. 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 8.8 out of 10: NSS 91.4% · in work or study 85%.
Who studies here and in this subject?
Provider- and UK subject-level context.
Southampton Solent University
Design, and creative and performing arts across the UK
HESA student record 2024/25. Counts are rounded.
Local crime-data context
A neutral snapshot around the published teaching location.
Around East Park Terrace
3,609 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 Music & Performing Arts right for you?
Tick what applies to you and see how good a fit it is.
International students
What applying to SSU from outside the UK involves: fees, English, visa, funding and living costs.
Tuition fees
International tuition is £18,000 / year for this course (from the provider’s fee page). 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 SSU’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 SSU and gov.uk before you apply.
Related courses
More at SSU
Music & Performing Arts at other universities
BA (Hons) Drama and Theatre Studies (with integrated foundation year)Aberystwyth UniversityBA (Hons) Drama and Theatre Studies (with integrated year in professional practice)Aberystwyth UniversityBA (Hons) Drama & Theatre StudiesAberystwyth University
BA (Hons) Creative Industries Futures (including Foundation Year)ACMCommon 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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