BA Music and Audio Production at Queen's University Belfast

Programme overview

The BA in Music and Audio Production is designed for musicians from a wide range of backgrounds interested in the production of musical content in both recording studio and live performance environments. Students gain practical experience of recording, editing, mixing and mastering music using professional studio facilities, alongside sound reinforcement experience and development in composition, general musicianship and optional performance.

Department: School of Arts, English and Languages | Duration: 3 years full-time | Intake: 2027/28 | Study mode: full-time | Location: Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom

What you will study

Year 1 core modules are Fundamentals of Sound, Introduction to Music, Introduction to Composition and Sound Recording and Production 1 (20 credits each), with options such as Fundamental Harmony, Introduction to Film Studies 1, Solo Performance 1 and Ensemble Performance 1. A Level 3 Work Based Learning module offers industry placement experience.

Career pathways

Graduates work in studio and venue audio engineering, broadcasting, audiology, acoustic consultancy, artist management, concert-venue management, audio system support and education. Employers include the BBC, UTV, The Nerve Centre, Start Together Studios, Trinity College Dublin and Queen's University Belfast.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

A-level: ABB (a maximum of one BTEC/OCR Single Award or AQA Extended Certificate is accepted in the portfolio, with Distinction* equated to A and Distinction to B). Irish Leaving Certificate: H3H3H3H3H3H3/H2H3H3H3H3. Access Course: average of 70%. International Baccalaureate: 33 points including 6,5,5 at Higher Level. BTEC Extended/National Extended Diploma: D*DD. Graduate entry: minimum 2:2 Honours degree. No specific subject requirements. All applicants need GCSE English Language grade C/4 or equivalent, and normally a minimum of five GCSE passes at grade C/4 or better including English Language. Offers are normally made on three A-levels; HNC applicants need 2 Distinctions and remainder Merits. Applications are made through UCAS and candidates are not normally interviewed. An IELTS score of 6.5 with a minimum of 5.5 in each test component, or an equivalent acceptable qualification, is required for international applicants.

Domestic applicants: GBP 4,985 a year (2026/27). NI/ROI residency, full-time undergraduate tuition; 2026/27 rate Source

International applicants: GBP 24,600 a year (2027/28). International and EU Other fee Source

Intake: September 2027

Duration: 3 years full-time

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