Music Production, Performance and Business BA Honours

• International Baccalaureate – 96 UCAS Tariff points from all components of the Diploma Programme. International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme will be considered on a case-by-case basis. You can refer to the UCAS calculator to determine your point score
• We accept a wide range of international high school level qualifications. Please see information on Country-specific entry requirements
• We work in partnership with Kaplan International College London who provide International Foundation Certificate courses for students who don’t meet our entry requirements. Upon successful completion, you can progress to your chosen degree at the University of Westminster. Find out about a range of university preparation courses that are accepted for entry.

English language requirements

• If your first language is not English, you should have an IELTS score of 6.0 overall, with a score of 5.5 in each component. Please note we accept a wide range of English language qualifications and assessments. Find out more at English language requirements.
• If you don't meet the English language requirements yet, then we offer online and on campus pre-sessional English programmes to help develop your English language skills to the required level before you start your course. Find out more about our pre-sessional English programmes.

More information

• How to apply
• Visas and advice

Our course encourages a diverse range of music styles and genres, covering everything including Rock, Pop, R&B, Grime, Jazz, Acoustic, EDM and more. Applicants with backgrounds and interests in music which fall outside of conventional music education such as DJs, underground music or electronica artists are strongly encouraged to apply.

Applicants who meet the entry requirements will be asked to submit a short portfolio of work relevant to their chosen specialism of music production, performance or music business/enterprise.

Successful applicants will be invited to attend an applicant open day spending time working alongside staff and students.

Portfolio guidance

Number of recommended portfolio pieces.

A maximum of two portfolio pieces

What should I include in my portfolio submission?

Depending on your area of specialism(s), please choose 2-3 of the following:

• Tracks: Provide a link to 2 tracks you have either written or produced. This should demonstrate your skills in song writing, composition, or production, highlighting your technical proficiency and creativity.
• Performance: Provide a link to 2 recordings or videos of yourself performing an original or cover song. This should demonstrate your specific instrumental abilities and skills across either vocals, guitar, keys, bass, drums, etc., showcasing your technique and performance quality.
• Analysis: Submit a short report (500 words) or a 5-minute video on a modern artist, producer, or entrepreneur/business. Detail their sound, creative identity, and marketing efforts. You can also include considerations on how they challenge traditional music industry practices or incorporate ethical considerations and sustainability into their work.
• Business Pitch: Present a brief video pitch (2 minutes) for a new business venture or project. This should demonstrate your music industry knowledge, business acumen, and entrepreneurial spirit. Highlight how you would address ethical considerations or sustainability in your venture.
• Professional Presence: Provide links to your professional social media platforms that showcase content related to your specialism. This can demonstrate your engagement with an audience and/or your ability to maintain a professional online presence.

How should I structure my portfolio?

Format and Access:

• You may submit your portfolio via Google Drive, Dropbox, or a similar cloud storage service, ensuring that access is granted to anyone with the link.
• Alternatively, you can submit a PDF or Word document with hyperlinks to your work, such as tracks, videos, or reports.
• Written work must be submitted as a Word document.
• For tracks, you can hyperlink to streaming platforms. Please ensure that private YouTube or SoundCloud links are accessible with the provided link.
• For videos, ensure they are of a high enough quality to be viewed clearly (preferably 720p or higher).

Labelling:

• Clearly indicate each piece of work with the option you have chosen (e.g., "Track 1 - Production," "Performance Video 1," "Business Pitch Video").

How will my portfolio be evaluated?

Your portfolio will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

• Creativity and Originality - We are looking for work that reflects your individual style and ideas.
• Technical Proficiency and Skill - Demonstrate your abilities in your chosen specialism/s, whether it's production, performance, song writing, composition or business.
• Passion and Potential for Growth- Show your passion for music and your specialism/s, your potential for growth, and highlight any areas where you wish to have an impact or bring about positive change.

What happens next?

Selected applicants receiving an offer will be invited to an applicant event that allows you to experience the university campus and course learning. This event also provides a chance for us to learn more about you and your creative goals.

Top Tip from our course team

Whatever the genre or field of the music industry you are most interested in or have skills in, showcase your originality and creativity. Let your unique voice and aspirations shine through in your portfolio.

Please do not send in portfolios until requested to do so by the University's Admissions team. You will be notified by email about when to submit your portfolio.

Many of our courses offer international study and work experiences, and the University provides other global opportunities that all students can apply for - so whatever you're studying, you'll have the chance to go abroad.

Opportunities could include:

• Taking part in semester or year-long exchanges at institutions around the world
• Attending an international summer school or field trip
• Developing your CV through volunteering or work placements abroad

International experience broadens horizons, boosts self-confidence, and improves global understanding, alongside being fantastic for your career.

Find out more about our international opportunities, including funding options and where you can go.