BA (Hons) Songwriting

Course OVERVIEW

Our BA (Hons) Songwriting was designed for those who have aspirations of being an artist, writing music for the church, or working within the broader music industry.

The course is focused on developing the range of techniques, skills and approaches required to be a songwriter. Throughout your study you will receive expert tuition and practical experience in the areas of lyric writing, melody composition, prosody and form. Further modules will focus on the development of a portfolio of material, both in a recorded and live performance context. 

As a Songwriting student you will study directly alongside musicians and sound, video and lighting technicians. This unique environment provides regular access to those with the skillsets to bring your songs to life—whether on stage or in the studio. 

In order to fully develop your skill, the Songwriting degree contains a regular roster of guest speakers and lecturers, as we draw upon those that have expertise in every area of the music industry to help prepare you for life beyond your studies. When combined with the strong Biblical discipleship ethos that exists at Nexus ICA, the result is that you will be better equipped within your career, church and beyond. 

A vibrant, faith-filled community

Nexus ICA is committed to the education of the whole person, and a strong sense of community is an integral part of what we do. There are regular opportunities to spend time together as a whole school, and staff and students come together weekly in order to socialise, pray and worship together. 

It is a key part of our educational ethos that education best takes place in smaller groups. Our staff-to-student ratio allows us to adopt a unique approach, where staff have the time to work alongside each student and create an experience that is tailored to them. 

There are many opportunities throughout the duration of the course to get involved in a variety of aspects of life here at Nexus ICA. Students are encouraged to contribute to a wide-range of causes and events during their time here, creating a diverse learning experience that will enrich many aspects of your life. 

Committed to your career

There is a growing demand for songwriters, both within a church context and within the wider music industries. The Songwriting BA (Hons) can be the springboard between you and an incredibly rewarding and long-lasting career. 

The course is designed to develop the many employability skills that enable people to thrive within their careers, and each student should leave Nexus ICA with radically improved communication skills, work ethic and time management—the attributes that, time and time again, enable people to ensure they are always in demand. 

If you aspire to become a professional songwriter, then this course can help turn these dreams into a reality.

Interview

You will need to demonstrate your suitability to study on this course through an interview.

Your interview will be arranged through the admissions department at Nexus ICA.

Music Theory

You will need to demonstrate an understanding of music theory, equivalent to Rock School’s Grade 5 music theory syallabus. You will therefore, either hold a certificate in music theory to this standard or be required to complete our theory paper. You will be able to sit this paper at any of our Open Days or if you are unable to make it to us, you will be asked appropriate theory questions as part of your video call interview.

Please note; it is not a requirement that you hold a previously achieved music theory certificate but is a requirement that you sit the paper should you not. 

Our paper contains questions on popular music topics such as reading notation, harmony, and audio theory. You can find a sample theory entry paper below to get a sense of the kind of questions you will be asked.

SAMPLE PAPER

If you would like any further guidance as to how to prepare for this paper, please get in touch.

Songwriting Portfolio

You will need to demonstrate your compositional ability by submitting two songs you have written.

SUBMIT YOUR SONGS

Please note; whether you hold any previous certificates in songwriting or not, it is a requirement of all applicants to submit a compositional portfolio outlined in the guidance below. 

Your compositions are something you should invest care and time in preparing to best demonstrate your musical ability.

SONG PORTFOLIO GUIDANCE

Key Course Details

What you need to know

Course Title: BA (Hons) Songwriting
Course Duration: 3 Years

Course Start Date: September 2024

Study Mode: Full Time

Academic

  • 64 UCAS tariff points, from level 3 studies or equivalent
  • Minimum three GCSEs including English Language at Grade 4 or above (Grade C or above if you studied previous to 2017)

Non native English-speaking students need to meet our following English language requirements: IELTS 6.0 average with a minimum of 5.5 in any individual element or equivalent. Visit our International Students page for more information.

Interview

Prospective students will be required to undertake an interview to assess their suitability for the course. Interviews take place over Zoom, or in-person at Nexus ICA should this be preferable.

If you require any support relating to this, please do not hesitate to Contact Us or for more info see our FAQ page.

Songwriting Portfolio

You will need to demonstrate your compositional ability by submitting two songs you have written. These songs should:

  • Be recorded and produced at the highest quality you are currently capable of;
  • Be the best examples of your work to date;
  • Demonstrate your ability to perform your compositions, by including at least one performance.

Additionally, you will need to demonstrate your musicianship by either holding a Grade 5 Theory qualification or by successfully completing our applicant Theory Paper as part of the interview.

Need help?

Applying for a course can be daunting. See our application guidance page for further tips, and if there’s anything else you require please don’t hesitate to contact us.

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