| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
ACM offers a wide range of programs at different academic levels, including:
Undergraduate Degrees:
Music Performance: Specializations in guitar, bass, drums, vocals, and keyboards.
Music Production: Covering recording, mixing, sound engineering, and studio production.
Songwriting & Creative Artistry: Focused on songwriting, lyrics, and creative performance.
Music Business & Innovation: Preparing students for careers in management, marketing, and entrepreneurship.
Game Development: Exploring audio design and production for video games.
Postgraduate Degrees:
Master’s programs in music production, songwriting, or other specialized areas.
Diplomas and Short Courses:
Foundation-level diplomas for pre-degree students.
Industry workshops and short-term courses for skill enhancement.
Industry Focus: ACM emphasizes preparing students for real-world careers in the music industry. Faculty members include active industry professionals, and courses are designed with the latest industry trends in mind.
State-of-the-Art Facilities: ACM provides access to professional-grade recording studios, performance spaces, and cutting-edge technology.
Collaborations: ACM works closely with major industry partners, including record labels, production studios, and equipment manufacturers, offering students valuable networking opportunities.
Masterclasses and Events: ACM regularly hosts masterclasses, workshops, and networking events with prominent musicians, producers, and music business experts.
Small Class Sizes: Individualized attention is a priority, helping students hone their craft and develop their unique style.
Guildford (Main Campus):
Located in Surrey, it is ACM’s flagship campus.
Known for its vibrant student community and proximity to London.
Birmingham Campus:
Located in the heart of Birmingham, this campus offers courses in music and creative industries with a strong urban music focus.
London Campus:
Focused on the music business and industry networking opportunities.
ACM boasts an impressive list of alumni who have gone on to achieve significant success in the music industry, including:
Ed Sheeran: Global superstar and singer-songwriter.
Newton Faulkner: Renowned guitarist and singer-songwriter.
Ted Dwane (Mumford & Sons): Bassist in the Grammy-winning folk-rock band.
Natasha Beddingfield: Award-winning pop singer-songwriter.
ACM courses are validated by Falmouth University, ensuring high academic standards and recognition of qualifications.
ACM is a member of the Music Academic Partnership (MAP), collaborating with the UK music industry.
Prospective students can apply directly through ACM’s website or via UCAS for undergraduate degrees.
Entry requirements typically include a portfolio or audition, depending on the chosen course.
ACM’s undergraduate programs are validated by Falmouth University and typically last for three years (or four with a foundation year). Students can specialize in various disciplines:
Music Performance
Focus: Developing skills as a musician (guitar, bass, drums, vocals, keyboards).
Topics: Technique, music theory, stagecraft, live performance, and session work.
Music Production
Focus: Audio production, recording, mixing, and mastering.
Topics: Studio recording, sound engineering, DAW proficiency, and creative sound design.
Songwriting & Creative Artistry
Focus: Writing, arranging, and performing original music.
Topics: Lyric writing, song structure, melodic composition, and vocal technique.
Music Business & Innovation
Focus: Preparing students for careers in the music industry’s business side.
Topics: Artist management, marketing, digital distribution, branding, and entrepreneurship.
Game Development (Audio)
Focus: Creating sound and music for games.
Topics: Audio integration, interactive sound design, and composition for gaming platforms.
ACM offers master’s programs that allow students to develop advanced skills and delve deeper into their areas of interest. These programs are also validated by Falmouth University and are ideal for students seeking to refine their artistry or specialize in particular disciplines.
Music Production
Songwriting
Creative Music Practice
Innovation in Music Business
Course Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees per Year (USD) (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
|
BA (Hons) Music Performance |
3 Years |
$20,000 - $21,500 |
|
BA (Hons) Music Production |
3 Years |
$20,000 - $21,500 |
|
BA (Hons) Songwriting & Creative Artistry |
3 Years |
$20,000 - $21,500 |
|
BA (Hons) Music Business & Innovation |
3 Years |
$20,000 - $21,500 |
|
BSc (Hons) Game Development (Audio) |
3 Years |
$20,000 - $21,500 |
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees per Year (USD) (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
|
MA Music Production |
1 Year |
$20,000 - $21,500 |
|
MA Songwriting |
1 Year |
$20,000 - $21,500 |
|
MA Creative Music Practice |
1 Year |
$20,000 - $21,500 |
|
MA Music Business Innovation |
1 Year |
$20,000 - $21,500 |
Global Reputation: ACM is widely recognized for its industry-focused education, partnerships with leading music brands, and its alumni success stories.
Diverse Community: Students from all over the world study at ACM, creating a culturally rich and inclusive environment.
Hands-On Learning: ACM emphasizes practical experience through live performances, studio work, and real-world projects.
Location:
Guildford Campus: A vibrant town close to London, with excellent transport links to the capital (just 35 minutes by train).
Birmingham Campus: Situated in a major UK city with a rich music history and a diverse creative scene.
London Campus: The heart of the global music business industry, ideal for networking opportunities.
International students can enroll in a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, such as:
BA (Hons) Music Performance
BA (Hons) Music Production
BA (Hons) Songwriting & Creative Artistry
BA (Hons) Music Business & Innovation
BSc (Hons) Game Development (Audio)
MA Music Production
MA Songwriting
MA Creative Music Practice
MA Music Business Innovation
Visit ACM's official website to explore undergraduate, postgraduate, diploma, and short courses.
Select the program that aligns with your career goals and interests.
Before applying, ensure you meet the program-specific entry requirements, which typically include:
Academic Qualifications:
For undergraduate programs: Equivalent to UK A-levels or a Level 3 qualification.
For postgraduate programs: A recognized bachelor's degree or equivalent.
English Language Proficiency (for international students):
IELTS: A minimum score of 6.0 overall (with no less than 5.5 in any section) or equivalent qualifications (e.g., TOEFL, Pearson PTE).
Portfolio or Audition:
Performance courses (e.g., Music Performance): A live or video-recorded audition showcasing your skills on your instrument or vocals.
Creative courses (e.g., Songwriting): A portfolio of original songs or compositions.
Production courses (e.g., Music Production): A portfolio of work showcasing your production or audio engineering skills.
Business courses: May require a personal statement and relevant work experience.
Applications for most ACM programs can be made directly via the ACM website: Apply Here.
For undergraduate courses, you can also apply via UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service).
ACM’s UCAS Institution Code: A48.
Postgraduate applications are typically submitted directly to ACM.
Documents Needed:
Academic transcripts and certificates.
English language test results (if applicable).
Personal statement (explaining why you’re applying and your career goals).
Portfolio or audition materials (uploaded during the application process).
Once your application is reviewed, you may be invited for:
Audition: For performance-based courses, you’ll perform a piece showcasing your skills.
Portfolio Review: For production or songwriting courses, your submitted work will be assessed.
Interview: Some programs (e.g., Music Business) may require a short interview to discuss your goals and motivations.
Auditions and interviews may be conducted in person, online, or by submitting pre-recorded materials (especially for international applicants).
If successful, you will receive an Offer Letter via email:
Conditional Offer: If you need to meet specific criteria (e.g., achieving required exam results).
Unconditional Offer: If you’ve already met all requirements.
Once you accept the offer, ACM will guide you on the next steps, including enrollment and payment of tuition deposits.
After accepting the offer, international students must apply for a Student Visa (formerly Tier 4).
ACM will provide a CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) once you’ve fulfilled all requirements and paid your deposit.
Visit the UK Government’s website for details: UK Student Visa.
After completing the admissions process, you’ll receive details about enrollment, orientation, and the start of your academic journey at ACM.
ACM typically offers two main intakes for most of its programs:
Intake |
Application Deadline |
Program Start Date |
|---|---|---|
|
September Intake |
Late June to early August |
September |
|
January/February Intake |
November to early January |
January/February |
September Intake is the primary intake and has the most program availability.
January/February Intake may have limited course availability and is ideal for students who need extra time to apply.
It is recommended to apply as early as possible to secure your spot and allow time for visa processing (for international students).
ACM offers undergraduate degrees in Music Performance, Music Production, Songwriting & Creative Artistry, Music Business, and Game Development (Audio).
Eligibility Criteria |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Academic Qualifications |
- UK A-levels (or equivalent). |
|
English Language Proficiency |
- IELTS: Minimum 6.0 overall, with no band below 5.5 (or equivalent TOEFL/PTE scores). |
|
Audition/Portfolio Requirements |
- For performance-based programs, a live audition or video recording showcasing your skills. |
|
Age Requirement |
- Applicants must typically be 18 years or older at the start of the program. |
ACM offers master’s degrees in Music Production, Songwriting, Creative Music Practice, and Music Business Innovation.
Eligibility Criteria |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Academic Qualifications |
- A recognized Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant subject. |
|
English Language Proficiency |
- IELTS: Minimum 6.5 overall, with no band below 5.5 (or equivalent TOEFL/PTE scores). |
|
Portfolio/Experience |
- For production and songwriting courses, a portfolio of work showcasing professional or creative projects. |
|
Age Requirement |
- Applicants must typically be 21 years or older at the start of the program. |
ACM offers Foundation Year programs for students who need additional preparation before enrolling in a full undergraduate degree.
Eligibility Criteria |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Academic Qualifications |
- UK GCSEs (or equivalent). |
|
English Language Proficiency |
- IELTS: Minimum 5.5 overall, with no band below 5.0 (or equivalent TOEFL/PTE scores). |
|
Portfolio/Audition |
- Same as undergraduate requirements. |
Diplomas and short-term courses at ACM are designed for students who want focused skill development in performance, production, or business.
Eligibility Criteria |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Academic Qualifications |
- Entry requirements vary by course (typically Level 2 or equivalent). |
|
Portfolio/Audition |
- A basic portfolio or audition may be required, depending on the course. |
|
English Language Proficiency |
- Proficiency requirements may apply for international students. |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Award Value |
Application Process |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Freddie Mercury Scholarship |
- Open to exceptional vocalists. |
Covers up to 50% of tuition fees. |
Submit an application along with a video audition showcasing your vocal talent. |
|
BASCA Scholarship |
- For talented students in songwriting. |
Covers partial tuition fees. |
Submit a portfolio of original songs and a personal statement about your passion for songwriting. |
|
Keith Lowde Scholarship |
- For students with potential in music business or entrepreneurship. |
Financial support amount varies. |
Submit a business plan or essay outlining your innovative ideas for the music industry. |
|
ACM Diversity Scholarship |
- Available to students from underrepresented backgrounds in the music industry. |
Covers up to 25% of tuition fees. |
Submit a personal statement explaining how the scholarship will support your career and goals. |
|
Creative Industries Future Fund |
- For students who demonstrate exceptional talent or innovation across any ACM course. |
Financial support amount varies. |
Applicants are automatically considered during the admissions process. |
|
ACM Alumni Scholarship |
- Available to returning students pursuing a postgraduate degree at ACM. |
Covers up to 20% of tuition fees. |
Automatically applied upon acceptance to a master’s program. |
|
International Student Scholarship |
- Available to non-UK students with exceptional talent in music, production, or business. |
Covers up to 25% of tuition fees. |
Submit a portfolio, personal statement, and proof of international student status. |
Campus Location |
Facilities |
Accommodation Options |
Approx. Cost (USD per Month) (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Guildford Campus |
- Main and flagship ACM campus. |
1. Private Halls of Residence: |
$750 - $1,400 per month (depending on type). |
|
Birmingham Campus |
- Located in the heart of Birmingham’s creative district. |
1. Private Halls of Residence: |
$600 - $1,200 per month (depending on location and type). |
|
London Campus |
- Based in the heart of London, offering proximity to the global music business industry. |
1. Private Halls of Residence: |
$1,200 - $2,000 per month (higher costs due to London’s location). |
Type of Accommodation |
Features |
Estimated Cost (USD per Month) |
|---|---|---|
|
Private Halls of Residence |
- Fully furnished student halls. |
$750 - $1,200 (Guildford/Birmingham) |
|
Shared Housing/Private Rentals |
- Shared apartments or flats with other students. |
$600 - $1,000 (Guildford/Birmingham) |
|
Homestay (Local Family) |
- Live with a local family. |
$600 - $800 (Guildford/Birmingham) |
Industry-Focused Education: ACM campuses are buzzing with creative activity, from jam sessions and live performances to studio production and songwriting collaborations. Students are constantly immersed in the music industry.
Collaborative Opportunities: Students from different disciplines (performance, production, songwriting, and business) frequently collaborate on projects, forming bands, producing music, and organizing events.
State-of-the-Art Facilities: ACM provides access to professional-grade recording studios, rehearsal spaces, live performance venues, and music technology labs.
Networking Opportunities: ACM’s location in creative hubs (Guildford, Birmingham, and London) means students can connect with industry professionals and attend events, workshops, and gigs.
Library and Study Spaces: Dedicated areas for academic study and research are available to support coursework and self-development.
Guildford Campus:
Situated in the picturesque town of Guildford, close to London (35 minutes by train).
Guildford offers a lively music and arts scene, with local venues like The Boileroom hosting gigs regularly.
A safe, student-friendly environment with plenty of shops, cafes, and green spaces.
Birmingham Campus:
Located in one of the UK’s largest and most diverse cities, known for its rich music history and creative culture.
Home to numerous live music venues, festivals, and a vibrant nightlife scene.
London Campus:
Based in the heart of the global music business industry, giving students unmatched access to networking opportunities, live gigs, and major music organizations.
Music Societies and Clubs: Students often form bands, songwriting groups, or production teams to hone their skills and collaborate on projects.
Events and Performances: ACM organizes regular events, such as:
Live Gigs: Opportunities to perform or showcase work at venues like ACM's Electric Theatre or other local hotspots.
Masterclasses: Sessions with renowned musicians, producers, and industry leaders.
Networking Events: Meet-ups with music industry professionals and alumni.
Student-Led Initiatives: Students are encouraged to take part in or organize events, open mic nights, and jam sessions.
Welcoming Community: ACM prides itself on fostering a friendly and inclusive community where students can feel at home.
Diversity: ACM attracts students from all over the world, creating a rich cultural exchange and opportunities to collaborate across styles and genres.
Student Union: ACM’s student union organizes activities, socials, and support services to help students integrate and make friends.
Support for Mental Wellbeing:
ACM offers counseling services, student mentors, and wellbeing workshops.
A dedicated Student Services Team provides help with academic or personal challenges.
Shared Housing and Private Halls: Students typically live in shared flats, private halls, or homestays. Many accommodation options are located close to the campuses.
Vibrant Town and City Life:
Guildford offers a quieter, more relaxed lifestyle with access to London’s bustling energy.
Birmingham and London campuses offer more urban living experiences, with access to world-class music venues, clubs, and cultural landmarks.
Masterclasses and Workshops: ACM regularly hosts sessions with notable figures in the music industry, such as producers, artists, and managers.
Work Placement Opportunities: ACM has strong ties with the industry, helping students find internships or freelance opportunities.
ACM's Talent Gateway: A dedicated service to assist students with career guidance, portfolio development, and finding gigs or production work.
End-of-Term Showcases: Students showcase their skills through live performances, recording projects, or music business presentations.
Alumni Networking: ACM’s alumni community includes successful artists like Ed Sheeran, Newton Faulkner, and Ted Dwane (Mumford & Sons), offering students inspiration and connections.
Live Sound and Festival Work: Students in production and music business courses often work on real-world projects, including festival sound engineering or event management.
Part-Time Jobs: Many ACM students find part-time work in local cafes, retail shops, or music venues to support themselves during their studies.
Internships: ACM’s strong links with the music industry mean students have opportunities to intern at record labels, studios, event companies, or marketing firms.
Strong Industry Connections:
ACM collaborates with leading companies in the music and creative industries, including record labels, management companies, production studios, and live event organizations.
Examples of industry partners: Sony Music, Universal Music, Abbey Road Studios, and PRS for Music.
Students often benefit from exclusive placement opportunities with these partners.
Internships and Work Placements:
Internships are available for students to gain experience in roles like studio engineering, live sound, artist management, or event planning.
Internships can be part-time or full-time and are often integrated into the academic program.
Live Sound and Production Work:
Students on Music Production and Live Sound courses get hands-on experience working on real-world events and gigs, such as festivals and concerts.
ACM frequently partners with local and national events to provide placement opportunities for students.
Student Performances and Showcases:
Students in Music Performance programs are encouraged to participate in ACM-organized live gigs, open mic nights, and end-of-term showcases, which serve as networking opportunities with industry professionals.
Music Business Projects:
Students in Music Business & Innovation programs often take part in real-world projects, such as marketing campaigns, event promotions, and artist management.
Freelance and Gig Opportunities:
ACM’s Talent Gateway provides access to freelance projects and gig listings for students to gain work experience while studying.
Examples include session work, live performances, or production projects for local and national clients.
The Talent Gateway is ACM’s dedicated career development service that offers:
Placement Support: Helps students find internships, part-time roles, and freelance work in their chosen field.
Networking Opportunities: Organizes events, meet-ups, and workshops with music industry professionals.
Career Guidance: Offers resume/CV writing help, portfolio reviews, and interview preparation.
Job Listings: Regular updates on job opportunities in the music and creative industries.
ACM’s alumni network includes many successful professionals in the music and creative industries. Here are some notable alumni and their achievements:
Alumni |
Career Path |
|---|---|
|
Ed Sheeran |
Multi-platinum, Grammy-winning singer-songwriter. |
|
Newton Faulkner |
Renowned guitarist and singer-songwriter. |
|
Ted Dwane (Mumford & Sons) |
Bassist in the Grammy-winning folk-rock band. |
|
Amelle Berrabah (Sugababes) |
Member of the chart-topping UK girl group. |
|
Jasmine Thompson |
Successful singer-songwriter and YouTube sensation. |
|
Patch Boshell |
Music producer and engineer, working with top artists like The Script. |
Course Program |
Placement Opportunities |
|---|---|
|
BA (Hons) Music Performance |
- Session musician for recording studios or live tours. |
|
BA (Hons) Music Production |
- Studio assistant or sound engineer intern. |
|
BA (Hons) Songwriting |
- Songwriter for artists or publishers. |
|
BA (Hons) Music Business |
- Intern at record labels or management companies. |
|
BSc (Hons) Game Development |
- Sound designer or composer for game studios. |
The estimated acceptance rate for ACM is around 70-80%, meaning a majority of applicants who meet the eligibility requirements, demonstrate talent, and complete the application process successfully are offered admission.
ACM evaluates students holistically, with a strong focus on their creative abilities and enthusiasm for the music industry. Here’s what affects the likelihood of admission:
For performance-based courses (e.g., Music Performance), students need to demonstrate musical talent in an audition.
For creative programs (e.g., Music Production, Songwriting), a portfolio showcasing previous work is essential.
Strong auditions or portfolios can significantly improve your chances of acceptance.
Undergraduate programs: Applicants need A-levels or equivalent qualifications (international equivalents are accepted).
Postgraduate programs: Applicants must have a relevant bachelor's degree or significant industry experience.
English language proficiency (for international students): Required scores for IELTS or equivalent tests must be met.
ACM values students who are deeply passionate about their chosen field and show a clear commitment to developing a career in the music industry.
Personal statements or interviews (if required) are an opportunity to express your goals and motivations.
International students are welcomed and evaluated on the same criteria as domestic students.
Providing evidence of English proficiency and a well-prepared portfolio/audition will ensure a competitive application.
Details |
Description |
|---|---|
|
Location |
Rodboro Buildings, Bridge Street, Guildford, Surrey, GU1 4SB, United Kingdom |
|
Specializations |
Music Performance, Music Production, Songwriting, Music Business, and Creative Industries |
|
Key Features |
- Guildford is ACM’s flagship campus. |
|
Facilities |
- State-of-the-art recording studios. |
|
Nearby Attractions |
- Local music venues like The Boileroom. |
Details |
Description |
|---|---|
|
Location |
32 Fazeley Street, Birmingham, B5 5RS, United Kingdom |
|
Specializations |
Music Performance, Music Production, and Music Business |
|
Key Features |
- Located in the heart of Birmingham’s creative quarter. |
|
Facilities |
- Modern studios and production spaces. |
|
Nearby Attractions |
- Birmingham’s famous O2 Academy and The Jam House. |
