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Music Production - HNC - Level 4

Course code: P12103

Subject area: Music

Study level: Undergraduate

Course level: 4

Course details

Course time:

09:00 - 17:00

Days of week:

Monday to Friday

Course date:

1st Aug 2026 - 31st Jul 2027

Course location:

Witney Campus

Contact details

Phone:

01993 703 464

Based in the lively town of Witney, this course offers hands-on training in music production, from studio techniques to sound design. With the Cotswolds nearby, students gain access to a vibrant music scene and creative opportunities in one of the UK’s emerging cultural hubs.
This one year course provides a comprehensive foundation in the creative and technical aspects of music-making. You will develop core skills in sound synthesis, audio engineering, and recording techniques, using industry-standard software and hardware. The course covers studio and live sound environments, enabling you to produce, edit, and manage multi-track sessions with a focus on sonic quality and professional standards.

Alongside technical training, the programme emphasises artist development, project management, and reflective practice. You will engage with creative direction, client feedback, and operational planning, gaining experience in managing recording sessions and evaluating outcomes. By the end of the course, you will have a strong grasp of music production workflows, technical compliance, and the collaborative skills needed to thrive in the industry.

You’ll learn in our well-equipped music department, designed to support both creative exploration and professional development. Our facilities include high-definition recording studios, mixing desks, and a range of industry-standard synthesisers, all centred around Pro Tools for professional-grade audio production.

In addition, we offer two fully equipped classrooms, including a recently refurbished Mac Suite featuring Logic Pro and a suite of industry-standard third-party plug-ins such as Native Instruments, Sound Toys, and Sonnox, ensuring students have access to the tools used by professionals across the music industry.

Course units
Sound Synthesis & Design: Learn the principles of sound creation using synthesisers and software instruments, exploring waveforms, modulation, and signal flow.

Recording & Audio Production: Gain hands-on experience in studio and live recording environments, using industry-standard tools like Pro Tools and Logic Pro. Develop skills in mixing, mastering, and editing.

Technical Operations: Understand studio setup, equipment handling, and digital audio workflows. Learn to troubleshoot and maintain professional audio systems.

Artist Development: Explore strategies for working with artists, including creative direction, feedback integration, and collaborative production.

Project Management: Plan and manage music production projects from concept to delivery, including scheduling, budgeting, and resource coordination.

Professional Practice: Engage with industry standards, third-party plug-ins (e.g. Native Instruments, Soundtoys, Sonnox), and develop reflective skills for continuous improvement.

What next?
After completion of the Higher National Certificate you can progress onto the Higher National Diploma for a more in depth second year of study; or directly to industry. After completing the HND you could chose to attend a University to top up your Diploma to a full degree.
Entry criteria
You will need to have a strong interest in music and previous experience in studying music or sound production. You will have a pass or higher on a level 3 qualification such as an Extended Diploma Qualification in Music, a T-Level in a related subject or 3 A-levels ideally including Music. You will also need to have grade 4 or equivalent in GCSEs in English and Maths.
We may consider mature applicants with relevant experience, however an interview will be required and ability to write at the required academic level assessed.
Fee information
Please contact the College for up to date fee information for the course and information on higher education student loans

19+ Fee:

£6,000.00

Qualifications received
You will gain a BTEC Higher National Certificate in Music Production, this is a Level 4 qualification equivalent to the first year of a degree.