Computer Science and Music Production

Computer Science and Music Production - BSc (Hons)

By utilising cutting-edge tools and technology to address real-world challenges and acquiring practical expertise in working with audio software, hardware, and digital audio in studio and production environments, our BSc will equip you with an advanced technical skill set in two rapidly evolving industries.

We are currently refreshing our curriculum for 2025/26 to reflect best practice and academic development, and updated course content and modules will be available on this course page in Autumn 2024.

Year of entry

2025 - for 2025 entry see here - for 2024 entry see here

Course type

Combined Honours

Location

Keele University campus

Subject area / School

School of Computer Science and Mathematics School of Humanities

UCAS code

GWK4

Duration of study

3 years / 4 years with international or placement year

Enquire about this course Clearing vacancies and entry requirements 2024 Book an open day Chat to students

Why study Computer Science and Music Production at Keele University?

Access a wide range of equipment including supercomputer facilities and a VR lab

Graduate with a substantial music and audio portfolio using industry standard software and hardware

Gain first-hand experience in industry with our Placement Year option

Access to comprehensive music studio facilities with sound design and computer labs

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Studying Computer Science at Keele

Hear from our students and staff – who share their personal experiences of what it's like to study Computer Science at Keele

View video transcript >

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Course overview

Keele's combined honours course in Computer Science and Music Production aims to provide you with a high level technical skill set, using the latest tools and technology to prepare you for a range of careers within two fast-evolving industries.

Computer Science at Keele is informed by research and close interaction with industry, including industrial guest lectures in certain modules, exploring the key themes that underpin this contemporary subject, whilst Music Production examines the cultural contexts in which sound is produced for and how it is consumed in various media forms.

Computer science begins with exploring the fundamental concepts and techniques for modern, professional programming which will become more advanced throughout your degree programme. This includes areas such as games programming, artificial intelligence and cyber security, with the consideration of cutting edge research in AI and machine learning. You will also have the opportunity to further specialise in your studies and apply the techniques you have learnt, through a final year project.

In addition to developing your knowledge in computer science, you will acquire technical skills and academic expertise in music production through working with audio software, hardware, and digital audio in studio and production set ups.

Music Production enables you to explore the cultural context in which sound is produced for and consumed in across various media forms. Through workshops, tutorials and assessments, you will develop technical skills, creative practice, and academic knowledge by working with audio software, hardware, and digital audio in studio and production set ups. Taught by staff with international experience and research in a range of specialisms, you will gain experience in sound recording, sound design and digital sampling.

You will also explore music making, music programming, mixing, and mastering and producing sound. There will be opportunities to work individually and collaboratively and to deliver inspiring projects under the guidance of supportive tutors. With a strong portfolio of skills, you will be equipped to pursue your career ambitions in the creative industries such as TV, radio, film and games.

At Keele, you'll have a variety of opportunities to enhance your academic and professional development. Imagine broadening your horizons by studying abroad, learning a foreign language, or completing a work placement. See below for the specific opportunities available on this course.

Next steps

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Related courses

Teaching Excellence Framework GOLD

Keele University has been awarded the highest rating of gold in the teaching excellence framework (TEF), 2023. The TEF assessment identifies excellence in the educational experience and outcomes of our students, focusing on all undergraduate courses and students.

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Course structure

Modules for Computer Science and Music Production

The module details given below are indicative, they are intended to provide you with an idea of the range of subjects that are taught to our current students. The modules that will be available for you to study in future years are subject to change as we regularly review our teaching to ensure that it is up-to-date and informed by the latest research and teaching methods, as well as student voice. The information presented is therefore not intended to be construed and/or relied upon as a definitive list of the modules available in any given year.

Compulsory Modules

Fundamentals of Computing
Introduction to Programming
Communication, Confidence and Competence
Audio Fundamentals and Recording Techniques
Sound for Moving Image
Introduction to Music Production

Optional Modules

Compulsory Modules

Optional Modules

Web Technologies
Computational and Artificial Intelligence I
Fundamentals of Data Science
Human-Computer Interaction
Database Systems
Software Engineering
Individual Study Topic in Computer Science
Computer Graphics and Animation
Computer Game Development
Digital Forensics
The American South: US Summer School
(Level 5)
Social Media and Society
Creative Synergies: Designing Collaborative Projects
Digital Sampling
Work Placement for Humanities Students
Work Placement Year
Augmenting Live Performance

Compulsory Modules

Third Year Double Project - ISP

Optional Modules

Games Computing
Machine Learning Applications
Cyber Security
Advanced Programming and Software Design
Software Development Management
Programming for Virtual Worlds
Digital Forensics Techniques and Applications
Advanced Databases and Applications
Communications and Networks
Advanced Web Technologies
Computational and Artificial Intelligence II
Data Ethics and Security
The American South: US Summer School
(Level 6)
Podcast and Radio Production
Remix Theory and Practice
Commercial Sound Applications
Work Placement for Humanities Final-Year Students
Music Production and Sound Design Portfolio - ISP
Dissertation - Research Project ISP
Advanced Mixing and Mastering
Say it loud! Music, sound and social change

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Additional opportunities

Foundation year Learn a language Placement year International year Study abroad GCP Elective Pathways Explore more

There are a range of additional opportunities available when studying this course.
Please note, undertaking one may impact upon the availability of another.

Work placements

The opportunity to undertake a placement is a valuable experience which enables you to demonstrate and develop your skill set further. Through this course you will become a creative and forward-thinking individual with the ability to critically evaluate, synthesise and produce content effectively through various methods.

You may have the opportunity to apply for the ‘Work Placement in the Humanities’ optional module in the School of Humanities, which provides you with a platform to work within an organisation, and refine your professional skills. You will identify an organisation based on your interests, with the guidance of the module tutors, and will spend a semester engaging with projects and tasks set out by the employer, as well as taught sessions at university. Many of our students have completed placements in different areas within the creative industries. Our placement partners include the education and skills support service business ENTRUST, the New Vic Theatre in Newcastle under Lyme, the music charity Make Some Noise, the independent local radio station Signal Radio, and others.

You will also have the opportunity to apply for a Work Placement Year that allows you to practice your knowledge and prepare for employment after university through a year long placement. This will enable you to build confidence in the workplace and demonstrate your abilities in a professional environment, applying the skills you have gained throughout your degree programme. You will be supported to prepare for your placement with advice on CV writing and cover letters, as well as the chance to attend Q&A workshops to discuss individual experiences with alumni and employers. This is a valuable, character-building experience where your will develop both personally and professionally.

Please note: If you wish to undertake a work placement year, you will be required to choose a placement aligned to either Computer Science or Music Production.

Apple MacBook loan scheme

Our Apple MacBook Loan Scheme ensures that all Music Production students have equal access to high quality resources to support learning. As a Music Production student, you will be provided with an Apple MacBook for the full duration of your degree, at no cost to yourself*. Pre-installed with the necessary software required for your studies, the loan scheme allows you to optimise your learning experience and engage with industry-standard hardware.

*a charge will be made in the event of loss or damage to the MacBook.

Societies

We have a wealth of student-led societies here at Keele which cover a diverse range of interests. Joining a society is a great opportunity to continue to develop your skills away from your studies. It’s also a great way to meet like-minded people, make friends and share interests with fellow students and can be beneficial when it comes to applying for graduate roles.

Study abroad

International year

Enhance your career prospects with an International Year at one of our partner institutions. Utilising this opportunity between 2nd and 3rd year can help in your employment search to stand out from the crowd and broaden your horizons, potentially working across the globe. On successful completion of all modules across the year, you will graduate with an enhanced degree title. This can be highly beneficial for your career prospects and through experiencing different cultures; you will not only grow as an individual, but you will also strengthen your knowledge and interests within society. You can find more information here.

Alternatively, you may choose to study abroad for just a semester in your second year which will count towards your second-year grades. Our Global Opportunities team will support you through the process, ensuring you are able to get the most out of your international experience.

Entry requirements

The following section details our typical entry requirements for this course for a range of UK and international qualifications. If you don’t see your qualifications listed, please contact us to find out if we can accept your qualifications. If you don't think you'll meet the entry requirements specified, you may be able to gain entry to this course via a Foundation Year.

Typical offer

Please ensure that you read the full entry requirements by selecting your qualifications from the dropdown menu below. This will include any subject specific, GCSE/Level 2 Maths, and English language requirements you may need.

A Level: BBB Subject specifics apply

BTEC: DDM Subject specifics apply

T Level: Merit Subject specifics apply

Please select your qualification from the drop-down list below for the full entry requirement information

A Level

BBB in three A levels

OR

BBC in three A levels including B in Maths or Computer Science

Contextual Offer: BCC in three A levels

OR

BCD in three A levels including B in Maths or Computer Science

You will also need: 4 / C in GCSE Maths or Level 2 Functional Skills Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

BTEC Extended Diploma / National Extended Diploma

DDM

OR

DMM in any of the following BTEC Extended Diplomas / National Extended Diplomas: Engineering

Contextual Offer: DMM

OR

MMM in any of the following BTEC Extended Diplomas / National Extended Diplomas: Engineering

You will also need: 4 / C in GCSE Maths or Level 2 Functional Skills Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

BTEC National Diploma / Diploma

Distinction and Distincton in any BTEC National Diploma / Diploma and C in one A Level

OR

Distinction and Merit in BTEC Diploma and B in Maths or Computer Science

You will also need: 4 / C in GCSE Maths or Level 2 Functional Skills Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

BTEC National Extended Certificate / Subsidiary Diploma

Distinction in any BTEC National Extended Certificate / Subsidiary Diploma and BC in two A Level

OR

Merit in any BTEC National Extended Certificate / Subsidiary Diploma and BB in two A Levels including B in Maths or Computer Science

You will also need: 4 / C in GCSE Maths or Level 2 Functional Skills Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

T Level

Merit in any T level

You will also need: 4 / C in GCSE Maths or Level 2 Functional Skills Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

International Baccalaureate Diploma

555 in three Higher Levels or 30 points

OR

554 including 5 in Maths (any) or Computer Science or 29 points including 5 in Higher Level Maths (any) or Computer Science

Contextual Offer: 554 in three Higher Levels or 29 points

OR

543 including 5 in Maths (any), or Computer Science or 28 points including 5 in Higher Level Maths (any) or Computer Science

You will also need: 4 / C in GCSE Maths or Level 2 Functional Skills Maths, or 5 in IB Middle Years Maths, or 4 in IB Diploma Standard Level Maths (any), plus an English language qualification (see below)

International Baccalaureate Career-Related Programme

We encourage applications with the IBCP but recognise that your combination of qualifications may differ depending on where you are studying.

If you are taking a BTEC National Diploma / Diploma with one or more Higher Levels, your offer will be similar to our BTEC + A level offer (see 'BTEC National Diploma / Diploma') but with an HL requirement of 6 for A, 5 for B, or 4 for C.

For any other combination, please contact the University Admissions Team for advice.

You will also need: 4 / C in GCSE Maths or Level 2 Functional Skills Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

Access to HE Diploma

122 UCAS points in any Access to HE Diploma, including Distinction in at least 30 Level 3 credits.

OR

112 UCAS points in an Access to HE Diploma with Maths or Computer Science related content, including Distinction in at least 15 Level 3 credits. Please contact the University Admissions Team for advice on whether your chosen course would qualify.

You will also need: 4 / C in GCSE Maths or Level 2 Functional Skills Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

Welsh Baccalaureate / Bagloriaeth Cymru

The Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate is equivalent to one full A level at the same grade and can be included alongside 2 other A levels in a standard A level offer for this course (see A level). All subject specific requirements will still need to be met.

Scotland - Highers and Advanced Highers

BBBCC in five Highers, or CC in two Advanced Highers and CC in two Highers, or CCC in three Advanced Highers

OR

BCCCC in five Highers including Maths or Computer Science Higher, or CD in two Advanced Highers and CC in two Highers including Maths or Computer Science Higher or Advanced Higher, or CCD in three Advanced Highers including Maths or Computer Science Advanced Higher

You will also need: C in National 5 Maths, or C in Higher Maths (including as one of the Highers taken as part of your offer), or 4 / C in GCSE Maths or Level 2 Functional Skills Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)

If you have B or higher in the EPQ and are studying A levels, BTEC, the International Baccalaureate Diploma, or an Access to HE Diploma, you will typically receive an alternative offer which will be lower than the standard offer. Please see 'Alternative and contextual offers' below.

Core Maths

If you have B or higher in Core Maths and are studying A levels, BTEC, the International Baccalaureate, or an Access to HE Diploma, you will typically receive an alternative offer which will be lower than the standard offer. Please see 'Alternative and contextual offers' below.

Ireland - Leaving Certificate

H3, H3, H4, H4, H4, H4 in the Irish Leaving Certificate

OR

H3, H4, H4, H4, H4, H4 in the Irish Leaving Certificate, including H4 in Maths or Computer Science

You will also need: O4 / H6 in Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

China - Gaokao

73% in the Gaokao

OR

70% in the Gaokao including 70% in Maths or Computer Science

You will also need: 60% in Senior Secondary School or Gaokao Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

India - Standard XII

Average of 70% from four subjects in the ICSE, CBSE or Western Bengal Standard XII, or average of 75% from four subjects in any other Standard XII

OR

Average of 65% from four subjects, including 70% in Maths or Computer Science in the ICSE, CBSE or Western Bengal Standard XII, or average of 70% from four subjects including 75% in Maths or Computer Science in any other Standard XII

You will also need: 6 or C2 in Secondary School Examination Maths, or Pass in Standard XII Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

Germany - Abitur

2.2 overall average in the Abitur

OR

2.4 overall average in the Abitur, including 12 in Maths or Computer Science

You will also need: 10 in Maths in the Abitur, plus an English language qualification (see below)

France - Baccalaureate

13 in the French Baccalaureate / International Option Baccalaureate / Baccalauréat Français International.

OR

12 in the French Baccalaureate/International Option Baccalaureate including 13 in Maths or Computer Science, or 12.5 in the Baccalauréat Français International including 12.5 in Maths or Computer Science

You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)

Hong Kong - Diploma

444 from two electives and one core subject in the HKDSE

OR

443 from two electives and one core subject in the HKDSE including 4 in Maths or Computer Science

You will also need: 2 in HKDSE Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

Spain - Bachillerato

Overall average of 7.4 in the Título de Bachillerato

OR

Overall average of 7.0 in the Título de Bachillerato including 8 in Maths or Computer Science

You will also need: 5 in Graduado en Educación Secundaria (GES) Maths or 6 in Título de Bachiller Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

Italy - Diploma di Esame di Stato

80% in the Esame di Stato

OR

75% in the Esame di Stato including 8 in Maths or Computer Science

You will also need: 5 in Maths in the Diploma, plus an English language qualification (see below)

Cyprus - Apolytirion

18 / 86% in the Apolytirion

OR

17.5 / 83% in the Apolytirion including 18 in Maths or Computer Science

You will also need: 14 in Maths in the Apolytirion, plus an English language qualification (see below)

Portugal

Overall average of 15.5 in a secondary certificate

OR

Overall average of 15 including 16 in Maths or Computer Science

You will also need: 10 in secondary certificate Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

Canada - Diploma

65% / BBBCC in five courses in the Grade 12 Diploma

OR

60% / BCCCC in five courses in the Grade 12 Diploma including 70% in Advanced Functions and 70% in Calculus and Vectors or Computer Science

You will also need: 50% in Grade 11 Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

Kenya - KCSE / Diploma

We do not accept the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education for direct entry. However, you can apply to study an International Foundation Year at Keele University International College. On successful completion, you can progress to an undergraduate degree at Keele

We may accept a two year Diploma. Please contact the University Admissions Team for advice.

Nigeria - Senior School Certificate / OND

We do not accept the Senior School Certificate (WAEC or NECO) for direct entry. However, you can apply to study an International Foundation Year at Keele University International College. On successful completion, you can progress to an undergraduate degree at Keele.

We may accept an Ordinary National Diploma with GPA of 2.5 or a Merit / Lower Credit. Please contact the University Admissions Team for advice.

USA - Advanced Placement

444 from three Advanced Placement subjects

OR

443 from three Advanced Placement subjects including Calculus (either) or Computer Science

You will also need: Grade C in Grade 12 High School Diploma Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

Ghana

We do not accept the West African Senior School Certificate Examination for direct entry. However, you can apply to study an International Foundation Year at Keele University International College. On successful completion, you can progress to an undergraduate degree at Keele.

Sri Lanka - Advanced Level

BBB in three Advanced levels

OR

BBC including B in Combined Maths or Computer Science

You will also need: C in O-Level Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

Malaysia - STPM

BBB in three Principal level subjects in the STPM

OR

BBC in three Principal level subjects in the STPM including B in Maths or Computer Science

You will also need: C in SPM Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

Pakistan - Secondary School Certificate

We do not accept the Secondary School Certificate for direct entry. However, you can apply to study an International Foundation Year at Keele University International College. On successful completion, you can progress to an undergraduate degree at Keele.

Singapore - A Levels (H2)

BBB in three H2 levels

OR

BBC in three H2 levels including B in Combined Maths or Computer Science

You will also need: C in O-Level Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

European Baccalaureate

72% overall

OR

70% overall with with 7 in Maths (5 period) or Computer Science (5 period)

You will also need: 6 in European Baccalaureate Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

NCUK

Pass NCUK Foundation Year with BBB and Grade C in EAP English Language module

OR

Pass NCUK Foundation Year with BBC including B in Mathematics or Computer Science and Grade C in EAP English Language module

You will also need: 4 / C in GCSE Maths or international equivalent

Uganda - Advanced Certificate of Education

BBB in three Principal level subjects in the Advanced Certificate of Education

OR

BBC in three Principal level subjects in the Advanced Certificate of Education including B in Maths or Computer Science

You will also need: 6 in UACE or UCE Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

Zimbabwe - Advanced Level GCE

BBB in three Advanced Level subjects

OR

BBC in three Advanced Level subjects including B in Pure Maths or Computer Science

You will also need: 4 / C in GCSE Maths or B in Maths O Level or Level 2 Functional Skills Maths, plus an English language qualification (see below)

English language requirements

All of our courses require an English language qualification or test. For most students, this requirement can be met with a 4 or C in GCSE English. Please see our English Language guidance pages for further details, including English language test information for international students. For those students who require an English language test, this course requires a test from Group A.

Alternative and contextual offers

We're committed to ensuring equality of opportunity to all our applicants with the potential and motivation to succeed, regardless of background. That's why we operate a range of alternative offer schemes with clear eligibility criteria, including contextual offers, offers for those studying within the Keele region, and recognising a range of additional qualifications in your offer.

General information

The entry grades outlined in this section indicate the typical offer which would be made to candidates, along with any subject specific requirements. This is for general information only. Keele University reserves the right to vary offer conditions depending upon a candidate's application.

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Central Science Laboratories

Develop your practical skills in Keele's state-of-the-art Central Science Laboratories

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"My degree has helped me become a part time coding tutor, teaching young minds how to code. It has also helped me get on to the master’s course I am studying right now. I chose Keele because of the campus, and because of the AI modules. The department has great opportunities, as well as great staff who are very understanding and helpful."

Sarah, Computer Science

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Your future career

95% of Keele students are in employment or further study within 15 months of finishing their studies (HESA Graduate Outcomes, 2019/20)

Enhance your employability

A degree in Computer Science and Music Production equips you with transferable skills, applicable to a variety of careers. You will develop strong communication and problem solving skills as well as expertise in digital software and hardware. Studying music production will provide the opportunity for further training in sound recording, audio streaming and broadcasting, whilst also enabling you to develop independently as a musician/artist. Having an array of experience across both subjects will help to prepare you for a future in the creative industries or computer science careers.

Jobs that a graduate of this course could go on to do include:

IT Consultant
DevOps engineer
Software Engineer
Sound Engineer
Music Producer
Cyber Security Analyst
Forensic Computer Analyst
UX Designer
Multimedia Programmer
Games Developer
AI Data Analyst
Big Data Engineer
Systems Analyst
Network Engineer
Information Systems Manager
Research Scientist
Marketing / Public relations

Keele graduates have gone on to successful careers in a range of industries and organisations including:

Senior Audio Director at the UK Studio of video game publisher Electronic Arts, London
Sound designer for SMA Animation Studios
Creative Labs European Developer Relations Group
Developer for Electronic Arts
Radio Producer at BBC Radio 3
Editor at Cambridge University Press.
Founder and Manager of Amadeus Music Academy, Stoke-On-Trent
Pro-Dean of Learning and Teaching in the School of Music at the University of Leeds

Keele’s Careers and Employability team (Shortlisted for Best University Careers Employment Service - National Undergraduate Employability Awards, 2021), offers a variety of personal and career development opportunities to enhance your employability. From mock interviews, careers guidance and CV advice, to careers fairs, alumni mentoring and networking events, along with helping you find part-time and graduate employment - the team will support you throughout your studies and beyond.

Find out more about our careers and employability services, including career planning, alumni mentoring, jobs, internships, starting your own business and much more.

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Teaching, learning and assessment

Teaching in Computer Science

Interactive learning

We embrace a modern approach to learning that includes a balanced mixture of immersive lectures and lab-based sessions. Taught modules will typically include traditional lectures with all support material provided via our virtual learning environment. Our labs also offer remote accessibility. Learning and teaching methods used on the programme vary according to the subject matter and level of the module.

Teaching methods may include:

Group project sessions
Practical sessions
Traditional lecturers
Tutorials
Web-based learning

Assessments

Assessments are formulated to represent real world use cases and problems and to challenge your knowledge of the subject matters in realistic scenarios. Teaching staff pay particular attention to specifying clear assessment criteria and providing timely, regular and constructive feedback.

Assessment methods may include:

Class tests
Coursework
Dissertations
Project reports
Short reports
Unseen examinations
Video and oral presentations

Teaching in Music Production

Through workshops, tutorials and innovative assessments, you will develop your technical skills and artistic imagination. You will be taught by research active staff in the School of Humanities and explore current trends and topics, supported by tutors who will help to guide you through your studies. You will study a mix of core and optional modules, exploring a diverse range of contexts of music and sounds which will inform your knowledge and skills, preparing you for a career of your choice. Throughout the course, there will be opportunities to work individually and collaboratively with peers to share ideas and expertise. You will build confidence using equipment and communicate well with others through various methods and exchanging your knowledge through collaborative projects.

You will be assessed through various innovative methods such as:

Podcasts
e-Posters
Live sound simulations
Group and individual hands-on music production and sound design projects
Interdisciplinary music project pitching and design
Blogging
Work placement reports and reflective diaries
Listening exercises
Essays, reviews, commentaries

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Facilities

Clockhouse

At Keele you will enjoy the use of designated teaching spaces and may study in our beautiful 19th-century Clockhouse and have access to comprehensive studio facilities. You will benefit from access to:

Six key areas housing equipment for sound recording, music production, computer music, audio-visual creative work, sound design, and music software development.
Two purpose-built studios for sound recording, mixing and mastering – one of which has a Voice Over booth (VO booth) and it is specialised for live recording and PA system, foley and general sound design recording and mastering.
Two high-spec music production and sound design studios with AV equipment and surround sound speaker system – 5.1 and 8.1.
Six practice rooms, one of which is dedicated for drummers, popular music and jazz practice rooms with drum kit, PA system, keyboards and guitar/bass amplification.
A computer lab (Studio Garage) for workshops and also used by students to work on their projects.

Courtyard Studio

Keele has expanded its music facilities with a new multi-purpose studio for live sound recording, mixing and mastering, equipped with cutting-edge technology. Our Courtyard Studio is home to a control room with Dolby Atmos multi-speaker audio system, a live room with foley recording facility, voiceover booth, and a band rehearsal room.

Our facilities provide the opportunity to explore emerging technologies and techniques, encouraging innovation in studio production and developing skills across music design, performance and recording.

State-of-the-art

Computational teaching will take place in Keele’s state-of-the-art, £34m Central Science Laboratories (CSL) and the Colin Reeves Building, home to the School of Computer Science and Mathematics.

The Colin Reeves Building offers a suite of facilities including:

Seven computer laboratories
A high-performance cluster of computers (used for research and projects)
A dedicated gaming lab (The Overclockers Lab)

Foundation year

Our Foundation Year provides an excellent alternative route to Keele, providing a unique opportunity to better prepare for your chosen degree, and with guaranteed entry onto your undergraduate course once you successfully complete your Foundation Year.

This extra year of study can improve your academic skills, expand your subject knowledge, give you a better understanding of higher education and, perhaps most importantly of all, build your confidence.

Keele University is consistently ranked among the top universities for student satisfaction, and we have over 70 years' experience of teaching a foundation year to students. On the Keele Foundation Year, you'll study on campus, joining our undergraduate community from the outset, with access to all the facilities and support that you'd get as an undergraduate student at Keele.

The information in this Foundation Year section is for UK/Home applicants. Where an international Foundation Year is available, please see the 'Information for international students' tab.

The information within this page is for students wishing to start their studies in September. If you would like to start this course in January, please visit our January pages for further details.

Course content

Our Foundation Year allows you to develop your critical thinking, academic reading, writing, and communication study skills along with subject-specific knowledge and skills which will be invaluable in your academic studies and beyond. Upon meeting the progression criteria and successfully completing our Foundation Year, you will automatically progress into your Keele undergraduate degree with the confidence that you have the skills, and knowledge needed to successfully complete your course.

This Foundation Year is a two-semester programme which provides a tailored pre-degree programme of study to better prepare you for the BA (Hons) Computer Science and Music Production degree. For example, the Foundations of Humanities 1 module introduces you to the broad range of source material across the Humanities disciplines - from media to history which enables us to analyse political, social or economic perspectives and attitudes to individuals, marginal groups and 'mainstream' society. Course content has been developed in collaboration with degree teaching teams, so that by the time you begin Year 1, you will be ready to excel at your studies, as the majority of our Foundation Year students do.

Find out more about the Keele Foundation Year, including information about teaching and assessment methods by visiting the Foundation Year homepage.

Course structure

The module details given below are indicative, they are intended to provide you with an idea of the range of subjects that are taught to our current students. The modules that will be available for you to study in future years are prone to change as we regularly review our teaching to ensure that it is up-to-date and informed by the latest research and teaching methods. The information presented is therefore not intended to be construed and/or relied upon as a definitive list of the modules available in any given year.

Semester one modules

FYO-00247	Foundations: Breaking the code - Understanding Academic Writing	15 credits
FYO-00249	Foundations of Business - 1	15 credits
FYO-00257	Foundations of Humanities - 1	15 credits
FYO-00259	Foundations of Humanities - 2	15 credits

Semester two modules

FYO-00271	University Research Portfolio	30 credits
FYO-00261	Advancing Humanities	30 credits

Entry requirements

The entry grades outlined in this section indicate the likely offer or range of offers which would be made to candidates along with any subject specific requirements. This is for general information only. Keele University reserves the right to vary offer conditions depending upon a candidate’s application. Read more about our undergraduate entry requirements.

56 UCAS points including at least one Level 3 qualification (such as an A Level, BTEC, Access Course, or T Level).
Plus C in GCSE English / Level 2 Functional Skills English and C in GCSE Maths / Level 2 Functional Skills Maths.

How to apply

Students will need to apply for BSc Computer Science with Foundation Year (UCAS code G401) through UCAS at www.ucas.com

Direct entry

If you already have your qualifications, are not expecting any further results and only wish to apply to Keele, please contact the Admissions Office directly.

The information in this Foundation Year section is for UK/Home applicants. Where an international Foundation Year is available, please see the 'Information for international students' tab.

We also offer a January start for some of our Foundation Year courses. Adopting a blended learning approach, the January start is particularly useful for students wishing to return to education following time out of studying, or who are seeking a flexible approach to their Foundation Year studies. Our January start is available across most of our Science, Humanities, Social Science, Health and Business courses.

Whilst still being a full-time course, our blended delivery model combines live teaching sessions - both online and on-campus - with self-directed study, enabling you to predominantly study at a time that suits your lifestyle. You will benefit from weekly online taught sessions which encourage you to engage with your teachers and peers.

In addition to online study there will be a series of full study days that you will be required to attend throughout each semester. These sessions may include lab-based activities, group work, review of course and assessment materials studied online. They will emphasise opportunities for you to deepen your knowledge and understanding of your chosen route.

Please refer to the September start tab for more information about the entry requirements and what you will study. The modules that you will take on a January start Foundation Year will be similar to those for the September start, but on a compressed timescale and tailored to a blended learning approach (with the majority of learning taking place online).

For more information, including fees, the UCAS code for this course, how to apply, and how you will be taught, please visit our January Start Foundation Year webpage.

Our International Foundation Year is delivered on campus through Keele University International College (KUIC). Find out more about the International Foundation Year options on the KUIC website.

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