Course Structure

The Music degree at Sheffield is modular and in all three years you can tailor your degree to suit your needs. Each year comprises 120 credits. The first year comprises a number of 10 and 20 credit modules; in years two and three modules are 20 credits but specialisms can be extended to 40 credits. Level 1 modules cover a broad range of topics. Levels 2 and 3 allow you to specialise. In some cases a number of modules have two-year 'paths' (technical modules for example). The modular system and choices available enable students to plan their degree to give them the best possible start in employment or further study. Whilst many modules benefit from the research specialisms of our staff we continue to integrate practical and academic study across a wide range of modules, enabling students to gain credits from their performance, whether as an ensemble or as a soloist.

Level One

Gives a broad overview of the subject, with the emphasis on acquiring key skills in performing, composing, evaluating and writing about music. Whilst many BMus students will wish to take a full 120 credits in music, it is possible to substitute up to 40 credits of music modules with subjects available outside the Music Department. BA students take at least 40 credits from each department, plus the remaining 40 credits may be taken from either dual department or from selection of University-wide modules.

Level Two

Towards the end of Level one studies, students receive information concerning Level II and III module choices. We teach second and third year students together enabling us to provide a wide variety of module choices. Students take a number of skill and practice based modules combined with a selection from the main module list.

Level Three

Allows students to specialise further through original composition, solo performance, dissertation or sound recording portfolio as well as selecting modules from the list. For BMus students the specialist options must account for 40, 60 or 80 credits; for BA students they account for 20, 40 or 60 credits. BMus & BA students select other modules to make up the required total of 120 credits from the modules on offer. Sound Recording Portfolio can only be taken in 20 credit form.