This programme combines BA Music with a Minor pathway in Game Design Studies – a new and distinctive provision in the study of interactive audiovisual media. This new offering in Game Design Studies builds on the Department of Music’s established reputation for the study of sound and music in gaming and other multimedia, and teaching is supported by a range of dedicated, industry-standard facilities.

Programme in detail

While the Music component focuses on developing an in-depth and critical historical understanding of classical music repertoires, cultures, and practices, it also offers flexibility through a generous range of optional modules. Some modules are practical in nature, and cover composition, performance, orchestration, and music technology; others are more theoretical, examining classical music history, music analysis, and music psychology, or even the music industry.

The Minor pathway will introduce you to the study of video games, which includes topics such as the history and development of gaming cultures, the complex nature of interactive media, and the critical issues that accompany engagement with virtual worlds, multicursal narratives, and dynamic musical content. Digital games represent one of the fastest growing forms of entertainment media: consequently, there is a growing need for many jobs that are not only in the games industry, but in surrounding industries as well. This programme develops a wide range of skills that prepare students for employment at various entry points in the job market, including content creation, publishing, journalism, and marketing.

Studying Music opens up many career opportunities. As well as jobs in music (from performance, composition, and production, through to teaching, music therapy and community arts), employers in many sectors are increasingly seeking arts and humanities graduates for their transferable skills. As a music student you will achieve creative flair and imagination, confidence in expressing yourself, an openness to new ideas, a capacity for hard work and an ability to analyse data. You will learn the value of working with others towards a shared, finished product and a whole range of flexible, professional skills.