Music Production — Higher National Diploma (HND) Top Up

The Music Production Top-up programme for Higher National Diploma builds upon the foundational knowledge and skills acquired during Level 4 studies. This advanced course aims to further enhance students’ understanding and proficiency in creating and producing music products, with a particular focus on developing commercial skills necessary for success in the digital marketplace using new technologies and concepts.

The curriculum is designed to equip you with a wide range of technical and professional skills that will enhance your employability and pave the way for success in the music industry. With the guidance and support of experienced tutors, you will be able to work towards your career goals and aspirations. Upon completion of this programme, you may choose to progress to the one-year BA (Hons) Music (Top-up) course to further your education and expertise in the field.

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

HND Music (Production) 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:

• Creative Research Project
• Advanced Music Production
• Mixing and Mastering
• Advanced Sound Design for Interactive Media
• Advanced Composition Techniques
• Advanced Sound Engineering
• A & R

How will I be taught?

Teaching is focused around industry-driven projects and scenarios, enabling students to engage in both collaborative and individual work. Teaching takes place in small groups and seminars, and students have access to professional studios, the innovation studio, the podcast studio, the DJ room and the live sound auditorium.

How will I be assessed?

Through a series of industry-driven projects and scenarios, this course will equip students with a range of creative, commercial and personal skills to give them a competitive edge. The programme is assessed through submission of written essays, reports and a series of project- based practical assessments.

Formative feedback will support student progression in both written work and practical outcomes. Self and peer assessment is an essential element of all projects and the feedback from these will enhance student achievement and progression.

Additional Costs

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

Please note: this course will only run when it has a sufficient number of applicants.

Qualifications

Within a few minutes’ walk of Liverpool city centre, students are based at the college’s Arts Centre - a creative hub for students studying music, performing arts, media, journalism, art, fashion and computing. Students have access to professional recording studios, computer suites and rehearsal facilities. Also located on this campus is the college’s Apple Authorised Training Centre for Education (AATCe) and Roland Music Academy.

Student Benefits

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

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

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

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.

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.