Whether you're interested in performing, composing or studying theory, the UK is the place to study for a professional degree in music.
In addition to improving your technical skills and knowledge of music, a music course can also help you develop essential qualities such as discipline, perseverance, and creativity. Playing an instrument or singing requires practice and dedication, and learning and mastering a piece of music can be incredibly satisfying. You can study musical genres at UK universities and choose from specialisms such as performance, composition, musicology and production.
Learn about studying for a degree in music at top UK universities and conservatoires below or speak to SI-UK India directly by booking your free consultation with SI-UK today.
Top Ten UK Universities for Music
Below is the list of the ten best universities in the UK for studying music, according to the Guardian University Guide 2024.
1. Guildhall School of Music and Drama
Guildhall is one of the most prestigious music colleges in the UK. The BMus is designed to develop practical musicianship skills for performers, composers, and electronic musicians. The programme focuses primarily on Principal Study, which is at least two-thirds of the programme and includes a minimum of 30 individual lessons per year with renowned academic staff. Additionally, students participate in over 100 hours of departmental classes, workshops, coaching, and projects with high-profile artists and opportunities to perform in prestigious venues.
The programme at the best music school in London also provides exposure and contacts through partnerships with organisations such as the Barbican, London Symphony Orchestra, and BBC Symphony Orchestra.
- Suggested course: BMus – Bachelor of Music Honours degree
- Entry requirements: 2 A-Levels (GCE Advanced A2) - Pass (grades A-E); International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma - 24 points
2. University of Surrey
The NMus (Hons) at the University of Surrey, one of the finest music schools in England, has been ranked fifth in the UK by the Guardian University Guide and received an overall satisfaction score of 95.2% in the National Student Survey. The degree covers a wide range of musical styles, from classical to popular, jazz, contemporary, and musical theatre. Students can participate in orchestras, choirs, and bands and work on improvisation.
The course includes performance and composition each year, studying music across history and culture, and developing advanced knowledge of music theory and analysis. Students graduate with a BMus qualification, emphasising practical skills such as performing and composing. In the final year, students undertake a large-scale individual project. Students can also take a year-long Professional Training placement on the four-year degree to gain experience in the music and wider arts industries.
- Suggested course: Music BMus (Hons)
- Entry requirements: A-level: Overall: BBB
- International fee: £22,100
3. Royal Academy of Music
The undergraduate composition course at the Royal Academy of Music offers diverse study areas, including concert, media, TV, film, staged productions, and electronic music. Taught by renowned composers, the programme emphasises intensive project-based learning and collaboration. With a strong focus on developing compositional techniques over four years, students receive individualised attention from dedicated, active composers professors. Core modules cover analytical and aural skills, contextual understanding of music, and exploration of 20th and 21st-century repertoire, preparing students for versatile and impactful careers in the music industry.
- Suggested course: Bachelor of Music (Honours) Composition
- Entry requirements: A-level: EE. Passes in two GCE Advanced-level (A2) examinations.
- International fee: £30,850
4. University of Oxford
The University of Oxford offers a comprehensive music course covering various genres, cultures, and contexts. The course includes Western classical music, popular music, music from different cultures, and community music. Students are taught to study music through various methods, including reading, listening, performing, and composing.
In Year 1, students take six subjects, including a compulsory programme in Foundations in the Study of Music, Stylistic Composition, Arranging and Transcription, Musical Analysis and Critical Listening, and Topics I. In Year 2, students take eight subjects, including compulsory courses in Topics II and III, which cover a range of historical and critical fields. They also have options to choose from, including an extended essay, composition, performance, critical studies in ethnomusicology, historically informed performance, and musical skills.
- Suggested course: BA Music
- Entry requirements: A-levels: AAA; International Baccalaureate (IB): 38 (including core points) with 666 at HL
- International fees: £43,670
5. Royal College of Music
The Bachelor of Music (BMus) programme at the Royal College of Music (RCM) offers a comprehensive approach to music education, combining rigorous training in solo, chamber, and ensemble performance with critical inquiry into music's historical and contemporary contexts. Undergraduate students benefit from one-on-one lessons with distinguished musicians, small-group instruction in core subjects, and numerous performance opportunities. With renowned professors from major London orchestras, students receive top-tier instruction, valuable mentorship, and networking connections, preparing them for successful careers in the music industry.
- Suggested course: Bachelor of Music (BMus)
- Entry requirements: Two A Levels at grade E or above or equivalent.
- International fee: £29,200
6. University of Sheffield
The University of Sheffield offers a BMus Music with Foundation Year, meticulously designed to support students' confidence, hone academic skills, and impart essential subject-specific knowledge. Delivered by the Department for Lifelong Learning, the foundation year equips students for degree-level study through various teaching methods such as lectures, seminars, and independent study.
Upon completing the foundation year, students progress to the Department of Music, ensuring a seamless transition to further study and providing ample academic and personal growth opportunities throughout the programme.
- Suggested course: BMus Music with Foundation Year
- Entry requirements: AAB, including Music; ABB + Grade 8 in either Practical (ABRSM/Trinity/Rockschool or equivalent) or Performance (ABRSM/ARSM) + Grade 5 Theory (ABRSM/Trinity).
- International fee: £25,540
7. University of Bedfordshire
The University of Bedfordshire offers a BA (Hons) in Media Performance for Film, TV, and Theatre, providing comprehensive training for aspiring actors. This dynamic programme covers various aspects of the industry, including acting, directing, scriptwriting, and production management.
Graduates have secured roles in TV, film, radio, and behind-the-scenes positions, showcasing the programme's versatility and industry relevance. With opportunities for work experience, masterclasses, and placements, students develop essential skills, industry connections, and a professional approach, paving the way for a rewarding career in media performance.
- Suggested course: Media Performance for Film TV and Theatre BA (Hons)
- Entry requirements: Three A levels, grades CCC or ACE.
8. University of Cambridge
Cambridge University is home to a world-renowned music faculty that has produced some of the most significant figures in British music, including composers, performers, conductors, writers, and broadcasters. The undergraduate music course has a strong academic component, focusing on history, analysis, composition, and performance, while also covers topics such as screen and media composition. The faculty building includes a professional concert hall, an extensive music library, books, periodicals, recordings, a purpose-built studio, and music computing laboratories.
- Suggested course: BA (Hons) Music
- Entry requirements: A Level: A*AA; IB: 40-42 points, with 776 at Higher Level
- International fees: £33,672
9. University of Manchester
The University of Manchester offers the MusB Music programme, ranked as the UK's top music department by the Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024. Established in 1891, this renowned degree combines tradition with innovation in a vibrant cosmopolitan setting. Students benefit from personalised instruction in solo performance, composition, and cutting-edge technology at the NOVARS studios.
With a flexible curriculum covering ensemble performance, conducting, film composition, and more, students can tailor their studies to their interests. They can engage in student-led music societies to develop employability skills and promote creativity in this dynamic and inclusive programme.
- Suggested course: MusB Music
- Entry requirements: ABB, including A in Music. IB: 35 points overall. 6,6,5 in Higher Level subjects
- International fee: £28,000
10. Bangor University
Bangor University's music BA offers a creative environment led by renowned composers, performers, and researchers. With a rich tradition of academic excellence, the curriculum provides diverse options for students to become leaders in their fields. Practical teaching allows for unique opportunities in composition, electronic music, and historically informed performance.
Students can engage with a vibrant music community through performances and student societies. The BA Music course offers interdisciplinary modules, while the BMus focuses exclusively on music. You can benefit from Music Performance Scholarships and state-of-the-art facilities, preparing for a versatile music career.
- Suggested course: BA (Hons) Music
- Entry requirements: A Levels: grade B in Music. International Baccalaureate Diploma: grade H5 in Music.
- International fee: £18,000
Music Careers
Almost all UK universities allow you to tailor your modules according to your choice, from performance to music and science, thus enabling you to choose a focused career pathway. Music graduates can work as musicians, composers, recording artists, sound technicians, sound engineers, and music producers. You can also choose to be music teachers, academics, publishers, or arts administrators.
Study Music in the UK
Study music in the UK to make a fulfilling career out of your vocation. Book a free consultation with our expert consultants today to learn about course details, entry requirements, scholarships, a post-study work visa, and more.
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