• Music and Sound

    HND Music

  • SCQF Level

    Level 8

  • Attendance/Duration

    Full-time, one year

  • Start Date

    Aug 2025

Overview

Building upon your 2-3 years of dedicated study, our HND Music marks the final step towards your college graduation. As you prepare to embark on the next stage of your musical career, you'll delve deeper into the world of music. From live performances to advanced composition, recording techniques to music theory, this course equips you with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the music industry. Discover your potential as a musician, performer, composer, or music professional.

Entry Requirements

To apply for this course, you'll need:

  • an HNC Music (with a minimum of 12 credits, ideally 15 credits)
  • an audition and interview with us

Course Content

During this course, you may explore:

  • enhancing your live performance skills, achieving a high level of proficiency and professionalism
  • advancing your song writing skills
  • developing your composition techniques, including composing for visual arts like film, games, or theatre
  • exploring multi-track recording techniques
  • expanding your music theory knowledge
  • experiencing the life of a session musician, including creating musical parts under pressure
  • investigating the impact of digital technology on the music industry, from production to distribution and marketing

You may also have exciting opportunities such as:

  • pitching and recording your own material through our record label, Sun Turtle Records
  • engaging in community-based projects like Tam Fest and OCMBA (Organised Community Based Musical Activity), working with school pupils or older individuals
  • Volunteering at local schools, running guitar workshops, or even going busking.

Careers and Further Study

After you have successfully completed this course, you may have the opportunity to:

  • progress to a teaching, music performance, or music production degree course at university

launch your career in the music industry with a wide range of exciting possibilities, including becoming a Professional Musician, Function Band Musician, Music Teacher, Instrumental Tutor, Community Artist, Music Producer, Event Organiser, Music Remixer, DJ, Sound Designer, Dubbing Mixer, Sound Editor, Electronic Music Producer, Guitar Technician, Drum Technician, Performer, Song writer, Arranger

Skills

Music playing skills, music software skills, composition, music theory, stagecraft, research skills

Employer and Industry Links

Ayrshire College has developed exceptional working relationships with key industry partners, fostering a dynamic learning environment for its students. Collaborating with BBC Scotland, students gain invaluable real-world insights, enhancing their media and broadcasting skills. The partnership with the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland offers opportunities for aspiring performers and artists to connect with renowned professionals. Centrestage provides a platform for students to engage in community arts, while industry leaders like AVID and Sonnox offer specialised software and technical training. These partnerships enrich the college's curriculum, offering students practical experience, industry exposure, and the tools to succeed in their chosen fields.

Articulation Routes

University of West of Scotland, University of Highland And Islands Perth, Fife College, Napier University, various other universities In the UK, often 2/3 year entry on degree programmes

Places available

Campus

Ayr

Start Date

Aug 2025

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