BA (Hons) Applied Music at University of the Highlands and Islands

Programme overview

BA (Hons) Applied Music is delivered online with compulsory residential sessions, letting students study any genre (traditional, Celtic, pop, jazz, classical, rock) in their home region while exploring Highlands and Islands music culture. It develops skills in performance, education, recording, creative production, business and communication, with ensemble credit for community playing and national and international placements.

Duration: 4 years full-time; 8 years part-time (structured) | Intake: September | Study mode: full-time / part-time | Location: Inverness, Scotland, United Kingdom

What you will study

Year 1 core modules include Performance practice 1, Ensemble 1, Remote digital music collaboration and Music in its widest context. Year 2 includes Creation through technology, Music, power and commerce and Performance practice 2. Year 3 includes Applied music research skills, Creative identity and Professional practice; year 4 includes Applied music: performance, creation or research, Music and culture and Sustainable creative endeavour.

Career pathways

Performing, composing, teaching, music and health, entrepreneurship, community music, research and development, sound production, recording, studio-based practice and live sound; progression to MA Music and the Environment or MRes Creative Practice.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

3 Scottish Highers at grade ABB or above or 2 A levels at grade B or above. Performers additionally need Grade 7 Associated Board or Trinity College (or equivalent) on first instrument, including Grade 5 theory. High ability in composition, creative skills or music technology is also considered. An audition and interview assessing technical ability are required. Advanced entry to year 2 may be possible with HNC Music (grade A in Graded Unit) and year 3 with HND Music (grade A in Graded Unit). SWAP access courses accepted.

Domestic applicants: GBP 1,820 a year (2026/27). Full-time, Scotland-domiciled students Source

International applicants: GBP 7,505 a year (2026/27). Full-time online, for students living in the UK assessed as international; course not available to those domiciled outside the UK or requiring Student Route visa sponsorship Source

Intake: September

Duration: 4 years full-time; 8 years part-time (structured)

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