Everything you need to know about the Popular Music course
Date 7 July 2025
7.07.2025Are you interested in studying Popular Music here at the University of Northampton? Joe shares this blog which gives you an insight into the modules you will study at the start of the course and what else to expect.
Popular Music
Popular Music is the course for you if you have an interest in performing and writing music or trying to navigate the industry, providing more practical skills than classical music courses.
I would recommend viewing the facilities before applying, as they are truly fantastic.
What equipment do I need?
I wouldn’t recommend using the laptop from your student perk to download the software, as the software we use is exclusive to Apple. If you can afford a Mac with good enough specifications to run Logic Pro X and Ableton, it would be helpful, but is not essential. Otherwise, I’d recommend purchasing an external hard-drive, a good pair of wired closed-back headphones, an audio interface and equipment needed for your chosen instrument.
What to Expect from Freshers’ Week
Like most courses, Popular Music has a few introductory lectures to meet everyone. Usually, students are given a tour of the department, a fun performance lecture and an opportunity to perform in the Waterside Bar. The performance opportunity was great, and playing with people I had only just met was a fantastic learning experience.
Year 1 Modules
In Performance, you are assessed by your ability on your chosen instrument and the quality of your performance in various settings. The bands in first year are assigned and every couple of weeks we explore a different genre, but we are allowed to select our own songs for the assessed performances.
Digital Audio Workstation
Digital Audio Workstation teaches students how to operate a ‘DAW’ such as Logic Pro X and how to compose and record music using it.
Cultural Theory
Cultural Theory is the more academic module that teaches students about Popular Culture and sociology/psychology that relates to the music industry, requiring them to give a 15-minute presentation and a written exam.
Composition and Theory
Composition and Theory explores the theoretical frameworks of western music and requires students to take a multiple-choice assessment to test their knowledge.
Recording Studio
Recording Studio is the module that teaches you how to use the mixing desk and the DAW ‘Pro Tools,’ allowing you access to the studio at any time after you pass the ‘driving test.’
Professional Music Studies
Professional Music Studies teaches students the political, social and economic values of music in practise, such as through giving instrument lessons, running events businesses etc.
Some of these modules continue into Year 2, however, you can choose which modules you study, including some new ones.
For more information, go to the Popular Music Degree page on the UON website.
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Joe is a first-year Popular Music student, with a particular interest in creating scores for film and television, as well as writing and performing alternative rock music.