BA in English and Music, The University of Sheffield

Sheffield,

36 Months

Check Eligibility

About this course

This dual honours degree combines the study of English and Music, allowing students to pursue their creative and critical passions across the arts. In English, you'll explore literature, language, theatre, film, and creative writing, while in Music, you'll have the opportunity to delve into performance, composition, musicology, ethnomusicology, music psychology, musical industries, and music technology. The program emphasizes both academic exploration and practical skills, with access to cutting-edge facilities including music practice rooms, recording studios, and research labs. Students can choose to develop their expertise in specific pathways such as Literature or Language within English. The course also offers options for study abroad, work placements, and flexible module choices, ensuring a well-rounded and versatile education suitable for various career directions in the arts and beyond.

Why this course is highly recommended

This course is ideal for students passionate about both English and Music, offering a comprehensive education that balances theoretical knowledge with practical skills. Being part of the University of Sheffield, an All-Steinway School and a leader in arts research, students benefit from top-tier facilities and expert teaching staff. The program emphasizes hands-on experience through work placements, concerts, and collaborative projects, which can give students a significant edge in their careers. The flexible structure allows for specialization and exploration of diverse cultural and artistic subjects. Graduates will develop advanced communication, research, and performance skills, making them highly attractive to employers in a wide range of fields, from creative industries to education, research, and media.

Specialisation

Students can choose between pathways within English, such as Literature or Language, aligning their studies with their interests. The literature pathway covers modules like Renaissance to Revolution, Early Englishes, and Contemporary Literature, while the language pathway offers modules like Varieties of English, History of English, and Sociolinguistics. In Music, students select modules across a broad spectrum of subjects including performance, composition, ethnomusicology, and music technology. They can also opt for practical modules like performance, orchestration, sound recording, and specialized topics such as jazz studies and East Asian music. The course structure supports flexibility, allowing students to craft a personal academic and creative focus, whether in literary analysis, linguistic research, or musical production.

Course fees

Application fees

28.31L

1st year tuition fees

28.31L

Living cost

Degree requirements

To be eligible for this BA, applicants need A Levels at ABB including Music, or BBB plus a relevant EPQ, or an IB score of 33 with 5 in Higher Level Music. Alternative qualifications such as BTEC Diplomas, Scottish Highers + Advanced Higher, and Access to HE Diploma are also accepted, provided specific credits and grades are met. Evidence of interest in language and literature, demonstrated through a personal statement, is important. Additionally, applicants must meet English language requirements, including GCSE English Language at grade 4/C or IELTS 7.0 with minimum 6.5 in each component. Specific requirements may vary for mature students or those with alternative qualifications.

English language test

PTE

TOEFL

DUOLINGO

IELTS

Career prospects

Graduates of this dual honours program will have developed highly transferable skills such as advanced communication, research, teamwork, and critical thinking. These are valued across numerous sectors, including journalism, marketing, theatre, television, publishing, education, and arts administration. The course prepares students for careers in the arts and media, with many moving into roles like music management, composition, performance, and research. The program’s emphasis on practical experience, through internships and projects, provides a significant advantage in the job market. Graduates can also pursue postgraduate study or research, and some have gone on to work with prestigious orchestras, music institutions, or in interdisciplinary fields combining their artistic and academic expertise.

FAQs

What are the key entry requirements?

Applicants should have A LevelsABB including Music, or BBB with a relevant EPQ, or an IB score of 33 with 5 in Higher Level Music. Alternative qualifications like BTEC Diplomas and Scottish Highers are also accepted with specific grades.

Is there an opportunity for a work placement or study abroad?

Yes, the course offers optional placement year opportunities to gain industry experience, and students can extend their studies with a year abroad at partner institutions worldwide.