Music Technology — Higher National Certificate (HNC)

The Higher National Certificate in Music (Technology) focuses on the creation and production of music products, with a strong emphasis on developing the commercial skills needed to work with innovative technology and concepts within the digital marketplace. You are supported to create and produce high-quality products in the University Centre's, where tutors provide a prominent level of support as you work to achieve your goals within the industry.

The programme covers a wide range of topics, including music production, sound engineering, music technology and music business, and you will develop your practical skills by working on a variety of music projects. This is a valuable qualification that can lead to wide-ranging career opportunities, and graduates of the course have secured employment in roles such as music producer, sound engineer, music technology specialist and music business professional.

If you have a strong interest in music and a willingness to work hard, this challenging course will reward you with a solid foundation for a successful career in the music industry.

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

HNC Music (Technology) 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
• Applied Sound Principles
• Recording Technology
• Creative Software Techniques
• Music for Sound & Picture
• Composition using Technology

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 the 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.