The Extended Diploma, equivalent in size to three A Levels, is a two-year, full-time course that meets entry requirements in its own right for learners who want to progress to higher education courses in music areas before entering employment. In addition to the knowledge, understanding and skills that underpin study of the music sector, this qualification offers learners experience of the breadth and depth of the sector to prepare them for further study or training.

What the course leads to

What courses can I do after this? 

The qualification carries UCAS points and meets the admission requirements for many relevant courses, for example:

• BMus (Hons) in Music (Performance)

• BA (Hons) in Music Technology and Production

• BA (Hons) in Creative Musicianship

• BA (Hons) in Digital Music and Sound Arts

• BMus (Hons) in Contemporary Music Performance

• BA (Hons) in Music Performance, Production and Composition.

Learners should always check the entry requirements for degree programmes with the higher education providers that are offering them.

What jobs can I get? 

The College has a wide range of facilities on offer at the Music and Sound Academy including;

North Road Music Centre

Live Performance Room, 7 fully equipped Rehearsal Rooms, 5 Recording Studios (Pro Tools/Cubase and ancillary equipment, including TL Audio M4, Audient Zen, Soundcraft Ghost, M-Audio), Lecture Room, Lecture Theatre, Technology Suite (iMacs - Pro Tools/Cubase/Sibelius) and 6 Practice /Editing Rooms.

What do I need to apply

To do this course you should have... 

You will require a minimum of 5 GCSEs at grades A*-C including English and maths grades 9-4 (formerly A*-C).

What about work experience? 

All students will particpate in 30 hours of extrenal work placement, virtual work experience and work related learning in year 1. All student will complete the UCAS application process in year 2. All student complete an online employability course throughout the two years of study.

International entry requirements 

If you are not from an English Language speaking country, you will need to have UKVI IELTS 5.5. We accept a wide range of academic qualifications awarded overseas and use the UK NARIC (National Academic Recognition Information Centre) guidelines for international comparisons. For tuition and accommodation fees please visit www.thecollege.co.uk/international/courses/tuition-fees and our International Operations team can offer you advice and guidance before and during your studies.

Course costs

Course Code Start Date Costs 16-18 Costs 19-23 (with concessions) Costs 19+ (no concessions)
BP01503 03/09/2024 £60.00 £2882.00 £2882.00
There is an Advanced Learner Loan available for this course.

* Please note fees are subject to change.

International Fees 

For tuition and accommodation fees please visit www.thecollege.co.uk/international/courses/tuition-fees and our International Operations team can offer you advice and guidance before and during your studies.

Course content

Course Content 

Learners taking this qualification will study four mandatory learning and teaching modules:

• Music Skills Development, or Music Production Skills Development 
• The Music Industry 
• Personal Music Profile 
• Collaborative Music Project

More info

Start Day/Time 

Hours of attendance and start date will be confirmed at enrolment.

Duration 

2 Years

Attendance 

Full-time

Level 

Level 3

Qualification Name 

Level 3

Awarding Body 

EDEXCEL BTEC

Curriculum Area 

Creative and Digital Industries - Music

More about the course 

BTEC Nationals provide a vocational context in which learners can develop the knowledge and skills required for particular degree courses; these knowledge and skills include:
• teamwork
• project work
• presentation
• analytical skills
• creative developmen

Academic Year 

2024/25

Duration 

2 Years

Attendance 

Full-time

Level 

Level 3

Qualification Name 

Level 3

Awarding Body 

EDEXCEL BTEC