The City of Liverpool CollegeMusic (General) — Higher National Certificate (HNC) - The City of Liverpool College
Life at the college Apply Student benefits

Music (General) — Higher National Certificate (HNC)

Music and Performing Arts

Course ID: 172795

Course Year: 24/25

Course Details

  • Higher National Certificate
  • 1 year, full-time course.
  • Study in our specialist facilities in The Arts Centre, in the heart of the city centre.
  • Study in an inclusive, supportive and friendly learning environment.
  • Access support and guidance from our dedicated and passionate teaching team.

What to expect from the course

The one-year, full-time Higher National Certificate in Music (General) is designed to equip students with the music skills, knowledge and the understanding necessary to achieve high performance in the global music environment. The course provides insight and understanding into the diversity of roles within the music industry, including composers, performers, producers, and a range of non-creative roles such as A&R and event management.

The focus of this course is to provide learners with a holistic view of the music industry and the skills necessary to thrive in a variety of settings, ultimately creating a portfolio career. You will study the fundamentals of music theory, industry, composition and performance which will equip you with the skills and knowledge to produce your own music, events and live performances. These important milestones will formulate your assessments during the course.

On completion of this qualification, students may choose to continue their studies through the Higher National Diploma Top-up in Music or progress their careers in the music industry.

The programme handbook for this course is available to applicants online:

HNC Music (General) Programme Handbook (2024-25)

This programme is delivered through in-person teaching. Should government guidance or public heath advice change in-year, students will be able to continue their studies with a blend of in-person and remote learning, supported by additional safety measures on campus.

Modules studied:

  • The Music Industry
  • Marketing and Promotion for Musicians
  • Professional Development
  • Recording Technology
  • Applied Music Theory
  • Instrumental Technique
  • Composing Using Technology
  • Performance

Additional Costs

Students may be required to purchase their own materials for any specialist projects they undertake as part of the course.


Qualifications

Higher National Certificate in Music

Why study with us?

Student Benefits

A baker decorating pastries.
Academy Bakery

The Academy Bakery is located on the Duke Street campus, producing a range of first class baked goods daily. These include artisan breads, patisserie and biscuits, as well as special occasion/novelty cakes by award-winning master-bakers. Students are offered a range of discounts throughout the year.

The Academy Bakery
A woman getting a nail treatment on her hands.
Academy Hair and Beauty Salons

Duke Street is also home to The Academy Hair and Beauty salons. They offer generous student discounts on a wide range of hair and beauty treatments, at a fraction of high-street prices. These include styling, cutting, perming, highlights, facials, manicures, electrolysis and traditional and homeopathic massage.

The Academy Salons
A chef preparing a dish.
Academy Restaurant

Duke Street campus is also home to the College’s Academy Restaurant. Often referred to by it’s customers as Liverpool’s hidden gem, the restaurant serves top class cuisine, at highly competitive prices. Food is expertly prepared by professional chef/tutors and young chefs in training and offers students a range of discounts at different times of the year.

The Academy Restaurant
An illustration of students using Office 365.
Microsoft Office 365 - Free

When you become a student of the College you’ll receive full access to Microsoft Office 365. This allows you to install the software on your own computer and other devices at home, completely free of charge.

A gym, including treadmills and exercise bikes.
Onsite Sports Facilities/Fitness Suite

The college has excellent sports and fitness facilities at its Roscoe Street campus. Students pay a one-off membership fee for all year round usage of weekly supervised gym sessions, as well as access to a number of sporting clubs and events.


Career pathways

Students who successfully complete this qualification may continue their studies at the City of Liverpool College University Centre and progress onto the level 5 Higher National Diploma in Music (Performance). Alternatively, graduates may wish to progress directly into employment in their chosen career or study at another higher education provider.

We're here to help...

Contact us to discuss your application or find out more:

 : 0151 252 3000
 : enquiry@liv-coll.ac.uk

Entry Requirements

College generic entry requirements apply to all HE programmes. For this particular programme, applicants will be required to hold a full level 3 qualification in a relevant subject area.

We also welcome applications from those with relevant experience in lieu of the minimum entry requirements. If you are a mature student and you can demonstrate experience and skills needed for our HE courses from current work and/or through other skills or experience this can supplement your application.

All applicants are interviewed and are asked to complete a written theory test and demonstrate their performance ability on their instrument.

Fees

This course is only available to learners aged 18 and over. Fees are payable by all students unless sponsored by an employer, but you may qualify for a student loan through Student Finance England towards the cost of your course and living costs. Find out more at https://www.gov.uk/student-finance, or contact our HE team at HEoffice@liv-coll.ac.uk.

Fee for24/25 is 6700.00
In future years we anticipate increasing this fee in line with the annual inflation level (capped at RPI All Items Excluding Mortgage Interest (RPIX)).


Apply Now »

College Videos