Sound Production (in collaboration with Major Key Studios)

Campus/location	Walsall Campus
Full-time	2 years
Sandwich	-
Part-time	2-3 years
UCAS code	Route A - X123 , Route B - W441 Route B - W440 Route B - W241 Route B - W190 Route B - L510 Route B - 056W
School	School of Sport, Performing Arts and Leisure

Course aims

Focusing on production skills, this exciting, contemporary Foundation Degree is the first of its kind in the Midlands and is believed to be the first in the UK
You will benefit from worldclass facilities developed with Major Key Studios music production company, which has worked with major artists including Ozzy Osbourne, Dexy's Midnight Runners, Judas Priest, Fine Young Cannibals and Duran Duran
The course gives equal weight to both studio and live performance operations, and the way it is delivered gives you ample opportunity for practical, hands-on experience, while the theoretical aspect is aimed at developing your understanding of the key principles that underpin industry activity
You are encouraged to develop links with industry, and staff will endeavour to arrange appropriate placements
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Find out how to apply

You will be able to trade as a freelance sound engineer and equipment hire operative, as well as seek employment within music, exhibition, conference and music theatre
In addition, you could top-up to Honours degree level in a number of HE institutions including the University of Wolverhampton (subject to validation)

You will be able to gain an awareness of the audio environment, learning about the factors that affect the sonic performance of both studios and venues. The course offers an exploration of the key roles that drive the music industry, how they interact and influence work patterns. You can learn to use a range of studio and venue mixing consoles, and look at issues surrounding the transportation, loading, placement and rigging of PA equipment. You can also explore the application and operation of the entire range of audio tools.
The course investigates how music videos are produced, edited and authored to disk in synchrony with music programmes. It examines the professional operation of a mixing console within studio and performance environments, and addresses the key area of caring for cable, case and other essential audio equipment.
If you have entrepreneurial ambitions, you will be helped to transform your ideas into a timescaled and costed business plan. The course also explains how to sell tickets, music and services online, and allows you to produce a commercial recording or stage a music performance.

Students under the age of 21 should have successfully passed one full unit award (eg. A-Level or BTEC National Diploma) and possess a pass at Grade C or above for GCSE English and Maths (or equivalent)
Students over the age of 21 need not have gained formal qualifications and are able to apply on the basis of relevant demonstrated interest or industrial experience, and will be invited to interview
Accredited Prior Learning (APL) is to be awarded at Level 1 only and must be supported by a portfolio of evidence