University of Hull

What you'll study

This three-year honours degree combines core musicianship, performance and composition with modules that focus on education, community music practice and project work. Teaching balances practical studio time, ensemble experience and academic study of music theory, history and pedagogy.

• Musicianship and performance — individual lessons, ensemble work, rehearsal techniques and preparation for public performance.
• Composition and creative practice — composition projects, arranging, songwriting and use of music technology for creative work.
• Music theory, history and analysis — Western and global musical traditions, critical listening and analytical skills.
• Music education and pedagogy — classroom approaches, lesson planning, assessment, inclusive practice and approaches to teaching different age groups.
• Community music and outreach — practical projects in community settings, group facilitation, project management and partnership working with schools, cultural organisations and community groups.
• Technology and enterprise — recording, music software, digital delivery of sessions and professional development for freelance and employed work.
• Final-year project — a practice-based or research dissertation that typically involves a substantial community project, a portfolio of teaching resources, a performance recital or a composition portfolio.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have completed secondary qualifications equivalent to UK A-levels, with music or a related subject preferred but not always essential. Typical offers reference standard undergraduate entry profiles (for example A-levels, BTEC Level 3 or equivalent) plus a demonstrable musical profile through audition, recorded performance or portfolio.

Successful applicants will usually be invited to an audition or to submit a recorded sample demonstrating practical ability and potential for development. Applicants should also show evidence of interest in music education or community work — this can be through voluntary experience, a short personal statement or references.

International applicants must demonstrate competence in English to the level required for undergraduate study at the university (evidence through recognised English language qualifications or equivalent).

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared for a range of careers that bridge performance, education and community engagement. Typical pathways include:

• Primary or secondary school teaching (many graduates progress to a postgraduate teaching qualification or School Direct/PGCE to gain qualified teacher status).
• Community music leader, outreach artist or workshop facilitator in cultural organisations, charities and local authorities.
• Arts administration, project coordination and programme development for festivals, venues and community arts organisations.
• Freelance performer, ensemble director, choir leader or workshop leader working with youth, older adults or community groups.
• Further study in specialist areas such as music education, community music, music therapy (requires separate professional training) or performance at postgraduate level.

Why study at University of Hull

The University of Hull offers a supportive music environment with access to practice rooms, ensemble opportunities and music technology facilities. The programme emphasises real-world experience through placements and project partnerships with local schools, cultural organisations and community groups, giving students practical experience of delivering music sessions and running outreach projects.

Teaching is delivered by staff active in performance, community practice and research, providing mentorship across practical and academic strands. The university’s regional connections and cultural partnerships help students build networks for employment and project work in education, the arts sector and community settings.