Bachelor of Media Arts (Commercial Music)

BM9601

Starts February or July
For Three years full-time or part-time equivalent
Domestic Student fees are $5,650 *
International Student fees are $18,900 NZD (per year) *
Study part-time or full-time
Hamilton City Campus

If you are seeking a career in commercial music then Wintec’s Bachelor of Media Arts (Commercial Music) is an exciting and innovative programme relevant to song writing / composition, music production and performance.

The Commercial Music endorsement of the Bachelor of Media Arts is for you if you wish to focus on the composition or production of music. A feature of this programme is the industry based projects which give students commercial practical experience.

Music students have 24 hour access to six recording studios, including three fully featured pro tools HD systems and 25 digital audio workstations. You are able to experience live mixing on a full ‘3 way’ PA system and analogue and digital multi tracking on a 44 channel studio console. Under the Media Arts umbrella you will have the opportunity to undertake collaborative projects with arts and media students in disciplines such as moving image, graphic design, photography, painting / sculpture, journalism and public relations / advertising. Your projects will involve; sound for film, installations, television and radio advertising.

Programme Content

Your first year of study will include harmony, ear training, notation, songwriting, music technology, contemporary issues in music and communication skills.

In your second and third years, you will choose to specialise in Music Production, Songwriting, Contemporary Music Performance or Māori and Pacific Island Performance and Production. Further electives are available from across the Media Arts programme, regardless of your endorsement of entry. For example, you may wish to specialise in music production, but do a number of moving image electives. The BMA structure is designed to let you maintain an interest in a number of disciplines.

Career Opportunities

The Bachelor of Media Arts may lead to employment as a Musician, Audio Engineer, Songwriter, Sound Designer, Composer or Music Producer.

Entry Criteria

• 60 credits at NCEA Level 2 in four subjects, including 12 credits in a Language Rich^ subject, or equivalent, or
• 42 credits at NCEA Level 3 including a Language Rich^ subject, or equivalent, or
• A total score of 16 or less in four Sixth Form Certificate subjects including a Language Rich^ subject, or equivalent, or
• University Entrance, or equivalent

^ History, Classics, Media Studies or English

In addition, for admission into the Commercial Music endorsement's songwriting and music production pathways, candidates will:

• Have gained grade three music theory, or
• A music theory test as determined by the School, and
• Will submit a portfolio of work as specified below, and
• If shortlisted, may be required to participate in an interview

For admission into the Commercial Music endorsement's Contemporary Music Performance pathway, candidates will:

• Have gained grade 6 Practical Trinity College London, Royal School of Music London, Rock School London, or
• Attend an audition to demonstrate equivalent skills and abilities in instrumental performance.

Your portfolio of work must include an audition tape or CD containing two songs of no more than two minutes duration:

• 1x standard or cover version of a well known song
• 1x original work

Note: Please indicate what instrument(s) you are playing. The cassette or CD can be a simple “home” recording. You must include a one page Curriculum Vitae:

• This should outline your musical background, including a reference from a private music tutor stating your practical theory knowledge and ability to read music.

You must include a 300 word essay stating why you wish to be accepted on to the Commercial Music programme:

• This work should clearly indicate your aims and area of interest in the music industry. You may include reference to concerts you have been to, records you have bought, etc.

Note: Please submit work on A4 sheets. Please put your name on each piece of work, including the tape / CD.

Candidates who have English as a second language are required to have an International English Language Test Score (IELTS) of 6.0 across all bands.

Special admission may be granted to candidates aged 20 years or over who do not meet the specified entry requirements. These candidates may be required to demonstrate an ability to successfully complete the programme through a process of an interview and / or assessment.

If you do not meet these requirements see the Certificate in Media Arts (Level 4).

Check what documents are required to enrol in this programme.

About the Faculty

This programme is offered by the School of Media Arts who provide innovative, interdisciplinary education that prepares students for careers in the creative industries.

Experienced staff and state-of-the-art facilities help you develop a unique range of skills and the ability to apply them in the professional world. Check out examples of student work, some of our successful graduates, Media Arts’ Industry connections, all the latest news and events, and more.