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Free BTEC Level 3 Music Course in Manchester – The Manchester College City Campus

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body
Apply now →

About this course

Free BTEC Level 3 Music Course in Manchester. Classes run at The Manchester College City Campus, full-time over one year. This Pearson Edexcel level 3 btec music qualification covers studio production, music technology for live events, and creating original musical material. In year two, you take on a self-directed project and a large-scale collaborative event. Assessment is hands-on throughout, with practical work at the centre of your learning. The course can lead to roles in music production, sound engineering, composing, and events.

Who this course is for

In year one, you’ll study five units:

  • Performing as a Band
  • Creating Musical Material
  • Exploring Different Styles of Music
  • Planning a Career in the Industry
  • Practical Music Theory

In year two, you will select an area of the music industry that appeals to you such as performance, song writing, recording, producing, composing or teaching and complete a large scale individual project such as writing or recording an album, presenting a series of gigs as a soloist or writing music for film and TV. You will also complete a substantial collaborative project where you will plan, market and present a major performance event as a group.

You will take part in a range of live performances at various locations including the iconic Manchester venue, Band on the Wall.

Find out more about The Music Department here: https://www.tmc.ac.uk/music

What you will learn

  • You'll develop skills in studio production and recording techniques
  • You'll create original musical material through production projects
  • You'll apply music technology in live event contexts, including live sound or DJ technology
  • You'll plan and organise a career pathway in the music industry
  • You'll produce a self-directed project such as an album or a portfolio of music for TV, film, or games
  • You'll collaborate on a large-scale group project such as a festival, recording, or composing event

How you will learn

Most of your assessment is practical. You'll take part in live demonstrations, recording sessions, and group work assessed by your tutor. You'll also build a portfolio of work over the course. In year two, a self-directed individual project and a large-scale collaborative project form the core of your assessment. Work experience is a required part of the course, and you'll be supported in finding a relevant placement.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. The Manchester College City Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Music producer, working in studios or independently on recordings
  • Sound engineer, managing audio for live events or studio sessions
  • Composer, creating music for TV, film, or games
  • DJ or live performer, working in venues and at events
  • Music events manager, organising concerts, festivals, or tours
  • Music promoter, marketing artists and live shows

What you could study next

  • BA (Hons) Creative Music Professions at The Manchester College, a direct next step for those wanting degree-level study in the field.
  • Degree-level music or music technology courses at UCEN Manchester or other universities, building on the practical and creative skills from this qualification.
  • Higher National Certificate or Diploma in Music Technology, for those who want a focused technical route before committing to a full degree.
Apply on tmc.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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