BTEC National Extended Diploma in Music
at Burnley College, Burnley · college
What the college says
This course offers a pathway for those who want to create sound and music using digital technology, as opposed to the traditional, instrument-focused approach. As well as digital music production, you will explore wider music technology skills in studio recording and live events projects and gain valuable experience and skills in these lucrative sectors of the music industry. The course will consist of projects that develop your skills and understanding, before you are assessed in industry-focused, coursework-based assessments. The first year focuses on developing fundamental music technology skills in three main areas: DAW production, live events, and studio recording. DAW production will focus on developing your digital music production skills, such as MIDI input, audio editing, sound design, and using audio effects. Live events will focus on setting up, operating, and managing sound equipment as part of a production team for a real live music performance. Studio recording will focus on capturing professional multi-track recordings in a studio environment, including understanding microphone placements, capturing high-quality audio, working with an artist in the studio, and mixing a multi-track recording. The second year provides more autonomy and a chance to focus on specialist skills development for specific industry sectors and job roles. You will develop a professional portfolio of work by the end of self-directed projects that will hel
What you need to get on
5 GCSEs at Grade 5 or above including English and Mathematics or a relevant Level 2 qualification. Experience in using music technology or DAW software to have created music is beneficial. Entry-level keyboard skills are desirable but not essential.
How you are assessed
One subject in depth, assessed largely through coursework and projects.
What this level means
The A-level-equivalent step, and what universities and employers ask for.
Is it open to 16 to 18 year olds?
Approved for 16 to 18 study on the government's Section 96 list.
Where it runs
Burnley College
Princess Way, Burnley, BB12 0AN
DaytimeClassroom basedCheck the journey
Start dates
- 2 September 2026 · Burnley
Who else teaches this exact qualification
Same qualification, different college. Entry requirements and how it is taught can differ a lot between them, which is the whole reason to compare.
- Their version
South Shields · North East · 1 year
- Their version
Peterborough · East of England · 36 weeks
- Their version
Burnley · North West · 2 years
- Their version
Wigan · North West · 35 weeks
- Their version
Wigan · North West · 35 weeks
- Their version
London · London · 23 months
- Their version
Kingston Upon Thames · London · 1 year
- Their version
Bexhill-On-Sea · South East · 2 years