Modules
Here is a guide to the subjects studied on this course.
Courses are continually reviewed to take advantage of new teaching approaches and developments in research, industry and the professions. Please be aware that modules may change for your year of entry. The exact modules available and their order may vary depending on course updates, staff availability, timetabling and student demand. Please contact the course team for the most up to date module list.
Year one
Dramatic Structures on Stage and Screen
Year: 1
Status: C
This module serves as an introduction to the fundamental structures of dramatic performance. Weekly lectures will introduce a range of core concepts. Students then take a weekly seminar through which they will develop the knowledge and frameworks provided to analyse the creation and reception of dramatic performances. The module will refer in detail to a range of set plays, studied from both the script and in live performance.
Space and Performance
Year: 1
Status: C
Space and Performance introduces students to core concepts relating to space, a defining feature of performance. It encompasses historical and contemporary performance practices to explore the relationships between space, form and function in performance. This compulsory drama module continues to develop good study skills and to extend critical vocabularies established in DRA101. It is team-taught, by a lecture and small-group seminar each week. Assessment 100% coursework
Musicology 1
Year: 1
Status: C
Musicology 1 introduces students to the nature of musicological enquiry. Its purpose is to develop students' familiarity with important areas of musical activity, trends and genres, and to address some of the major issues in relation to the study and performance of Western Art and Popular Music. The module also enables students to develop fundamental skills in the study of tonal harmony.
Performance Studies 1
Year: 1
Status: C
This module introduces the student to a variety of approaches relating to the study of musical performance, promotes self-awareness and provides a broad context for further development. It is designed to develop current levels of aural awareness and serve as an introduction to improvisation as a means by which musicians may generate and develop musical ideas spontaneously, without reliance on a score
Performance Studies 2
Year: 1
Status: C
This module builds on the skills acquired in MUS102, develops self-awareness, and encourages students to advance their understanding and appreciation of artistic qualities that characterise musical performances. Students are encouraged to make relevant connections between the skills developed here and within other areas of the programme
Musicology 2
Year: 1
Status: C
In this module students will be introduced to the study of Irish traditional music and the evolution of early jazz.The study of fundamental harmony introduced in Musicology 1 will be continued with emphasis on early jazz.
Year two
The Form and Function of Performance
Year: 2
Status: C
This module interrogates the relationship between social and political identities and contemporary performance practices. It explores the form and function of performance works and through these analyses the potential efficacy of performance. This module is taught by seminars and is assessed by 100% coursework.
Political Theatre from Expressionism to Brecht
Year: 2
Status: C
This seminar based module seeks to introduce students to key aesthetic movements, through the study of play texts and performances. The module encourages the student to apply critical readings and concepts to the analysis of primary texts, to engage analytically with performance conventions typical of different artistic movements, and to reflect on their practical work and experiences as spectators.
Creative Computing
Status: O
Year: 2
This module is optional
This module is designed for students who wish to develop their practice in interactive systems for live digital music or visual performance, application prototype and/or installation work.
Writing for Stage and Screen
Status: O
Year: 2
This module is optional
This module offers the student the opportunity to explore the processes of creative writing for a range of media, including live and filmed performance. The student will read from a range of materials and encounter a range of working methods, before opting for one medium and developing a piece of writing for performance in that medium.
Musicology 3
Status: O
Year: 2
This module is optional
This module engages with a cross-section of musicological and performance-practice issues in the study of nineteenth-century Western Art Music and Contemporary Classical Music.
Electronic/Electroacoustic Composition
Status: O
Year: 2
This module is optional
This module introduces students to the key theoretical principles, creative practices and tools for electronic/electroacoustic music production, in addition to other sonic arts and sound design activities.
Musicology 4
Status: O
Year: 2
This module is optional
This module builds on the perspectives established in Musicology 3, and provides students with both a broad appraisal of Irish traditional music, song and dance and specific explorations of music in a variety of styles as well as advanced harmony skills and an insight into popular music aesthetics/experimental pop.
Performance studies 3
Status: O
Year: 2
This module is optional
In this module students increase their knowledge of repertoire and performance styles and develop a range of performance and performance-related skills.
Performance studies 4
Status: O
Year: 2
This module is optional
In this module students develop their individual strengths in performance, their critical faculties and their awareness of the visual dimensions of performance
Composition and Orchestration 3
Status: O
Year: 2
This module is optional
This module develops students' composing and orchestration skills, providing opportunities for them to engage with a range of contemporary scores and recordings while facilitating their composition of original musical works. Particularly focuses of the module include the application of rhythmic techniques, expanding the students' working knowledge of harmonic writing and developing their technique in arranging for acoustic instruments.
Composition and Orchestration 4
Status: O
Year: 2
This module is optional
This module is geared towards consolidating and developing composing and orchestrating skills as acquired in Composition and Orchestration 3, and channelling them towards the production of a large-scale original composition and orchestration.
Sound Recording and Production 1
Status: O
Year: 2
This module is optional
This module provides an overview of the studio environment and of the techniques involved in the different stages of modern music production.
Introduction to Music Business
Status: O
Year: 2
This module is optional
This module will give students an understanding of key working practices, skills and national and international organisations relevant to the music business. It will provide students with a set of practical skills to equip them as professional practitioners within the music industry
Introduction to Music in the Community
Status: O
Year: 2
This module is optional
This module will introduce the role of the musician in community arts, exploring skills which will equip students to participate in all aspects of community-based arts projects
Music and Moving Image
Status: O
Year: 2
This module is optional
This module provides students with a historical, theoretical, stylistic and aesthetic study of music and moving image and the opportunity to compose for the screen. The module focuses primarily on film music and its genres but also covers other screen media, in particular music video and music for television. The module is divided between theoretical and analytical work, including the discussion of selected case studies, and practical work composing and editing in the lab.
Experimental Music
Status: O
Year: 2
This module is optional
This module will introduce students to the key historical, practical, theoretical, and aesthetic themes associated with experimental music composition and performance.
Music and Sound Practices
Status: O
Year: 2
This module is optional
This module will introduce students to the key creative, practical, theoretical, and aesthetic strategies associated with contemporary composition and performance which utilises timbre as the central tool for compositional exploration.
Year three
Liveness and Documentation in Performance
Year: 3
Status: C
This module interrogates the relationship between performance, liveness and documentation through the development of appropriate critical concepts and vocabulary. It is taught by lecture and seminar and requires students to learn by reading and undertaking practice, reflecting and discussing.
Assessment: 100% coursework.
Creative Business
Status: O
Year: 3
This module is optional
This module assists students in the developing specific skills and awareness to maximise their ability to conceptualise, manage and market new, society centred, ideas.
Industrial Placement
Status: O
Year: 3
This module is optional
This module provides students with the opportunity to experience life as a professional in the creative industries as a paid employee of a company. They will be expected to conduct themselves professionally being an employee of a company and an ambassador for the University during this period. They will be supported by an academic coordinator.
Representing Violence
Status: O
Year: 3
This module is optional
This research-lead module seeks to extend the range of theoretical and critical perspectives with which students engage and to focus on the specific contexts of contemporary performance practices. It offers students an opportunity to explore the representation of violence as an enduring matter of philosophical debate and theatrical innovation, that covers such issues as staging strategies, performative strategies, ethical and theoretical questions, and audience reception.
Performance and Disability
Status: O
Year: 3
This module is optional
This module seeks to give students opportunities to engage with different ways of creating theatre through the lens of disability and performance. Students will explore concepts of disability within society in the context of theatre, drama and performance. They will study dramatic representations of disability and how these provide insight into issues relating to the construction of disability within society. Concepts such as difference, equality, social, medical and relational models of disability and co-creation will be considered. Students will learn to reflect critically on and to engage practically with aspects of access and/or aesthetics in relation to disability and performance.
Storytelling and Performance
Status: O
Year: 3
This module is optional
This module provides students with the opportunity to explore storytelling as a performance form within a range of theatrical and performance settings. Practical exploration allows students to engage with the form from within, while independent research and in-class discussion provides the opportunity to contextualise and analyse practices encountered.
Assessment: 100% Coursework.
Performing Ireland on Stage and Screen
Status: O
Year: 3
This module is optional
This module looks in detail at contemporary Irish theatre practice and in doing so enables students to focus their understanding of contemporary Irish theatre by placing it in a range of relevant discursive and theoretical contexts. Students will read a range of contemporary playtexts and see a range of performances.
Arts Entrepreneurship
Status: O
Year: 3
This module is optional
This module develops students' creative engagement with the industry through an exploration of the marketplace, and of the processes involved in setting up and running a new business in the creative and cultural industries. The module has been developed in consultation with Theatre NI and aims to develop students' understanding of entrepreneurial practice and thinking in the creative and cultural industries.
Performance and Conflict Transformation
Status: O
Year: 3
This module is optional
This module equips students to use their skills, knowledge and experience in analysing and creating performance within the context of conflict or post-conflict society. Taught through lectures, seminars and workshops, the module focuses on engaging with local and international post-conflict issues and the development of independent projects.
Assessment: 100% coursework
Performance and Health
Status: O
Year: 3
This module is optional
This module provides students with the opportunity to explore performance as a means of enhancing well being, challenging stigmatisation and promoting awareness of health issues. Practical exploration allows students to engage with the issues and formal techniques from within, while independent research and in-class discussion provides the opportunity to contextualise and analyse practices encountered.
Theatre and Ritual
Status: O
Year: 3
This module is optional
This option investigates radical performance practices of the ritualised forms of theatre from modernism to postmodernism and beyond. Students will explore, interrogate and evaluate the theoretical underpinnings, practical methodologies, and performance outcomes of selected bodies of practice and create new work by applying the ideas they have encountered to performance practice in a studio environment. It will be of particular interest to students wishing to pursue innovative contemporary practice or undertake practice-based research after graduation.
Assessment: 100% coursework
Theatre for Young Audiences
Status: O
Year: 3
This module is optional
This module provides students with the opportunity to explore the values, ethics and practices of Theatre for Young Audiences. Practical exploration allows students to engage with the form from within, while independent research and in-class discussion provides the opportunity to contextualise and analyse practices encountered.
Assessment: 100% Coursework.
Year four
Interactive Music Systems
Status: O
Year: 4
This module is optional
This module is designed for students who wish to pursue advanced study in interactive media systems for installation and/or performance applications.
Sound Theory/Sound Practice
Status: O
Year: 4
This module is optional
This module develops the learner's understanding of the key role the `forgotten' medium of sound has in contemporary media and in our everyday lived experience. Learning will be grounded in an historical overview of the development of sound study, sound technology and the principal sound art projects of the last 150 years. This grounding will be used to encourage students to develop their own analyses of the ways in which sound frames and permeates our everyday lives and to create their own sound productions informed by these perspectives.
Project 1
Status: O
Year: 4
This module is optional
This module will allow students to develop the skills necessary to undertake and complete a research project, allowing them to pursue in depth a particular topic, agreed with a supervisor, in which they have a particular interest.
Project 2
Status: O
Year: 4
This module is optional
This module will allow students to develop the skills necessary to undertake and complete a research project, allowing them to pursue in depth a particular topic, agreed with a supervisor, in which they have a particular interest.
Jazz in the United States
Status: O
Year: 4
This module is optional
This modules explores the development of Jazz in the United States in the twentieth century using a range of critical and analytical techniques.
Double Project
Status: O
Year: 4
This module is optional
This module will allow students to develop the skills necessary to undertake and complete a research project, allowing them to pursue in depth a particular topic, agreed with a supervisor, in which they have a particular interest.
Music and Moving Image
Status: O
Year: 4
This module is optional
This module provides students with a historical, theoretical, stylistic and aesthetic study of music and moving image and the opportunity to compose for the screen. The module focuses primarily on film music and its genres but also covers other screen media, in particular music video and music for television. The module is divided between theoretical and analytical work, including the discussion of selected case studies, and practical work composing and editing in the lab.
Performance Studies 5
Status: O
Year: 4
This module is optional
In this module students may focus on repertoire/styles in which they have demonstrated particular strengths. They enhance their performance profile through involvement in a range of performance-related activities.
Performance Studies 6
Status: O
Year: 4
This module is optional
This module is designed for students who have displayed the potential to pursue performance to a level of artistic excellence.
Conversations in Irish Traditional Music
Status: O
Year: 4
This module is optional
The module will provide students with an overview of the sounds, conversation, communities and contexts of traditional musics in Ireland with a view to developing critical thinking and commentary skills in relation to issues raised.
Composition Portfolio 1
Status: O
Year: 4
This module is optional
This Module is intended to encourage and empower the student to compose medium scale (6-10 minute) works demonstrating a variety of creative approaches and skills.
Composition Portfolio 2
Status: O
Year: 4
This module is optional
This module is geared towards developing compositional skills the student has acquired in MUS517 Composition Portfolio 1, and channelling them towards the production of two large scale pieces of music.
Advanced Audio Production
Status: O
Year: 4
This module is optional
This module is designed for students who wish to pursue advanced study in audio production.
Placement 1
Status: O
Year: 4
This module is optional
This module allows students to spend a period of time working outside the university in a suitable music or arts organisation.
Placement 2
Status: O
Year: 4
This module is optional
This module allows students to spend a period of time working outside the university in a suitable music or arts organisation.
Teaching Music in the Community
Status: O
Year: 4
This module is optional
This module introduces students to the practice of teaching music outside the formal school environment. It considers practical supports to help build skills in the planning, delivery and monitoring of teaching, and to encourage future teachers to become reflective in their practice. It also introduces students to the entrepreneurial context in which such teaching in the community is often situated.
Standard entry conditions
We recognise a range of qualifications for admission to our courses. In addition to the specific entry conditions for this course you must also meet the University’s General Entrance Requirements.
A level
Grades CCC
Applicants may satisfy the requirement for the final A level grade in the above grade profiles by substituting a combination of alternative qualifications to the same standard as defined by the University.
Applied General Qualifications
RQF Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma/ OCR Cambridge Technical Level 3 Extended Diploma
Award profile of MMM
We will also accept smaller BTEC/OCR qualifications (i.e. Diploma or Extended Certificate / Introductory Diploma / Subsidiary Diploma) in combination with A Levels or other acceptable level 3 qualifications.
To find out if the qualification you are applying with is a qualification we accept for entry, please check our Qualification Checker - https://www.ulster.ac.uk/stud-y/entrance-requirements/equivalence
We will also continue to accept QCF versions of these qualifications although grades asked for may differ. Check what grades you will be asked for by comparing the requirements above with the information under QCF in the Applied General and Tech Level Qualifications section of our Entry Requirements - https://www.ulster.ac.uk/study/entrance-requirements/undergraduate-entry-requirements
Irish Leaving Certificate
96 UCAS tariff points to include a minimum of five subjects (four of which must be at higher level) to include English at H6 if studied at Higher level or O4 if studied at Ordinary Level.
Irish Leaving Certificate UCAS Equivalency
Tariff point chart
Scottish Highers
CCCCC
Applicants may satisfy the requirement for an element of the offer grade profiles (equating to the final A-level grade stated in the standard 3A level offer profile - Grade C) by substituting a combination of alternative qualifications to the same standard as defined by the University.
Scottish Advanced Highers
DDD
Applicants may satisfy the requirement for an element of the offer grade profiles (equating to the final A-level grade stated in the standard 3A level offer profile - Grade C) by substituting a combination of alternative qualifications to the same standard as defined by the University.
International Baccalaureate
Overall International Baccalaureate profile is minimum 24 points (including 12 at higher level)to include Music at HL5
Access to Higher Education (HE)
Overall profile of 55% (120 credit Access Course) (NI Access course)
Overall profile of 45 credits at Merit (60 credit Access course) (GB Access course)
GCSE
For full-time study, you must satisfy the General Entrance Requirements for admission to a first degree course and hold a GCSE pass at Grade C/4 or above English Language.
Level 2 Certificate in Essential Skills - Communication will be accepted as equivalent to GCSE English.
English Language Requirements
English language requirements for international applicants
The minimum requirement for this course is Academic IELTS 6.0 with no band score less than 5.5. Trinity ISE: Pass at level III also meets this requirement for Tier 4 visa purposes.
Ulster recognises a number of other English language tests and comparable IELTS equivalent scores.
Additional Entry Requirements
HND - Overall Merit with distinctions in 15 Level 5 credits entry to Year 1. Those applicants holding a subject-related HND with an overall Merit may be considered for entry to Year 2.
Music subject requirements are:
- Music
- Performing Arts (requires completion of Music strand).
HNC – Overall Merit with distinctions in 45 Level 4 credits for entry to Year 1.
Music subject requirements are:
- Music
- Performing Arts (requires completion of Music strand).
Candidates offering non-subject related HNC/HNDs will be considered if they achieve the Music subject requirements via other qualifications i.e. A level grade C or equivalent.
Foundation Degree - an overall mark of 40% in Level 5 modules for Year 1 entry. Those applicants holding a subject-related Foundation Degree may be considered for entry to Year 2.
Please see the other qualifications sections for alternative acceptable qualifications to satisfy the Music subject requirements for this course. Please note that all applicants for the degree course may be interviewed and auditioned as part of our entry criteria.If you do not meet the requirement for a qualification in Music, please contact us and we can discuss how we might recognise your prior experience in the area in assessing your application.
Advanced Entry
Those applicants seeking entry with advanced standing, (eg. Transfer from a cognate course at another institution or year 2 entry via cognate HND* or Foundation Degree*) will be considered on an individual basis but should note that this process can be more difficult in subject combination programmes as both subjects must be satisfied.
* normally Year 2 entry requires applicants to hold a course-related award plus a minimum of grade 5 Music Theory or demonstrate equivalent proficiency (equivalency to be determined via interview audition).
APEL (Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning)
The University will consider applications on the basis of experiential learning for those who do not hold the normal entry qualifications.
Transfers - on an individual basis.
Exemptions and transferability
Applicants from other institutions should apply via UCAS. Applications will be considered on their individual merits.
Testimonials
Name: Luke Merritt
Course: Drama
Campus:nMagee
Full-time/Part-time: Full Time
Background: I am a 21 year old second year Drama student from England. I love travelling and experiencing new life and culture - and that’s how I ended up in Ulster Uni!
Why did you choose Ulster?
I chose Ulster for the experience of moving away from my comfort zone; to try out a totally new environment far from home. I also enjoy the way the university helps me to shape my own learning - I can shape my career goals tailor the course to my needs/interests.
How do you think studying at Ulster has prepared you for your future career?(e.g. work placement, careers advice/guidance, opportunities available)
We have a lot of work where we work closely with others, so I’ve learnt about how to work on a professional level with a team. The course is challenging but a lot of fun; so I’ve learnt how to work to targets and under pressure. There’s always a sense that I’m part of a bigger community at this uni, that I am making some small difference, which I love.
Describe the support you have received at Ulster.(e.g. from lecturers, fellow students, support services, Students’ Union)
The students union have been great in helping me settle over the past year, with meet ups and events through the year. Lecturers have also supported me through tough times and think outside my usual zones - I always feel able to talk to someone if theres ever a problem.
What university facilities or resources do you find most useful and why?
I find the 24 hour computer labs hugely beneficial - sometimes you just need a bit of time in a lab environment to get some quiet work done and focus. The library is also really well stocked and helps me concentrate. I also love the fact we have access to the Foyle Arts building most of the time; it feels like our building, which really personalises this degree journey for me.
Why did you choose to study at Magee/Coleraine?(If you live in halls, describe what student accommodation is like.)
I love Derry as a city; it is vibrant, unique and steeped in culture and history. There is always something going on and I still haven’t seen it all, which I love! I love the challenge of studying at Ulster, and the academic and personal awards at the end of each semester!
Why would you recommend Ulster?
Ulster is a fresh, modern university that really does welcome everyone. They understand that their students want the opportunity to shape their own futures and they help every step of the way. They want their students to succeed beyond university and they really make me feel part of a community - a living uni world where everything is constantly changing!