Welsh and Music (BA)
Why study this course
Your instrument of choice
Realise your full potential through fully-funded instrumental tuition.
Capital connections
Benefit from our city location and links to cultural, political, heritage, and media organisations to help you get ahead.
A thriving community
Make connections through the Welsh Students' Union, Welsh-language halls and the Welsh-language Academy.
Performance and industry connections
Connect with musicians through composition workshops, performance masterclasses, and concert series.
Music placement
Explore what the music business has to offer and gain professional skills with a placement.
You’ll gain a wealth of transferable skills and knowledge, opening the doors to a variety of career paths, wirth our BA in Welsh and Music. And have the opportunity to take a work placement across both subjects to develop your professional know-how and put your learning into practice in the working world.
Your Welsh studies will help you develop strong academic and practical understanding of the Welsh language, its literature and culture, a high level of skill in written and spoken Welsh and well-developed employability and creative skills relevant to modern Wales. While your music studies are flexible and challenging, building a thorough grounding in music aesthetics, analysis, composition, ethnomusicology, music history and performance and allowing you to specialise and develop your own interests.
Cardiff is a great place to study music as a hub for the arts and creative industries and home of the Welsh National Opera and BBC National Orchestra of Wales .
Entry requirements
We accept a combination of A-levels and other qualifications, as well as acceptable alternative international qualifications subject to entry requirements. Typical offers are as follows:
A level
BBB-BCC. Must include Music and Welsh First or Second Language.
Applicants who do not meet the A-level Welsh first or second language requirement, but who have equivalent demonstrable Welsh language skills, will be considered on a case-by-case basis. These skills will be determined via satisfactory completion of a written and oral assessment to confirm eligibility for the programme.
Extended/International Project Qualification: Applicants with grade A in the EPQ/IPQ will typically receive an offer one grade lower than the standard offer. Please note that any subject specific requirements must still be met.
- Our grade range covers our standard offer and contextual offer. We carefully consider the circumstances in which you've been studying (your contextual data) upon application. Eligible students will be given an offer that is lower than the standard offer (usually the middle or lower end of the advertised grade range).
- Where there is no grade range advertised and/or where there are selection processes in place (like an interview) you may receive additional consideration in the selection process.
Learn about eligible courses and how contextual data is applied.
International Baccalaureate
31-29 overall or 665-655 in 3 HL subjects. Must include grade 5 in HL Music. You must also have a Welsh Language qualification equivalent to grade B at A-level.
Baccalaureate Wales
From September 2023, there will be a new qualification called the Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales (level 3). This qualification will replace the Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate (Welsh Baccalaureate). The qualification will continue to be accepted in lieu of one A-Level (at the grades listed above), excluding any specified subjects.
GCSE and other essential requirements
You must have or be working towards:
- English language or Welsh language at GCSE grade C/4 or an equivalent (such as A-levels). If you require a Student visa, you must ensure your language qualification complies with UKVI requirements.
We do not accept Critical Thinking, General Studies, Citizenship Studies, or other similar equivalent subjects.
We will accept a combination of BTEC subjects, A-levels, and other qualifications, subject to the course specific grade and subject requirements.
English language requirements
GCSE
Grade C or grade 4 in GCSE English Language.
IELTS (academic)
At least 6.5 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in each subskill.
TOEFL iBT
At least 90 overall with a minimum of 17 for writing, 17 for listening, 18 for reading, and 20 for speaking.
PTE Academic
At least 69 overall with a minimum of 59 in all communicative skills.
Trinity ISE II/III
II: at least two Distinctions and two Merits.
III: at least a Pass in all components.
Other accepted qualifications
Please visit our English Language requirements page for more information on our other accepted language qualifications.
Criminal convictions
You are not required to complete a DBS (Disclosure Barring Service) check or provide a Certificate of Good Conduct to study this course.
If you are currently subject to any licence condition or monitoring restriction that could affect your ability to successfully complete your studies, you will be required to disclose your criminal record. Conditions include, but are not limited to:
- access to computers or devices that can store images
- use of internet and communication tools/devices
- curfews
- freedom of movement, including the ability to travel to outside of the UK or to undertake a placement/studies outside of Cardiff University
- contact with people related to Cardiff University.
Other qualifications from inside the UK
BTEC
D-M in a BTEC Certificate in any subject, grade B in A-level Music, and grade B in Welsh (First or Second language).
T level
Acceptance of T Levels for this programme will be considered on a case-by-case basis by the Academic School. Consideration will be given to the T Level grade/subject and grades/subjects achieved at GCSE/Level 2.
Please see our admissions policies for more information about the application process.
Tuition fees for 2027 entry
Your tuition fees and how you pay them will depend on your fee status. Your fee status could be home, island or overseas.
Learn how we decide your fee status
Fees for home status
We are currently awaiting confirmation on tuition fees for the 2027/28 academic year.
1 Home status tuition fees are charged at the maximum fee set by the Government each year. If the tuition fee cap changes before you start your course, we’ll email you to let you know. We’ll explain any changes to your tuition fees, and allow you to withdraw without penalty if you decide not to study with us.
Tuition fees may increase for subsequent years of your course if the fee cap changes. Learn what happens if tuition fees increase.
Fees for overseas status
We are currently awaiting confirmation on tuition fees for the 2027/28 academic year.
Additional costs
Course specific equipment
Other than your principal study instrument, you will not need any specific equipment.
Accommodation
We have a range of residences to suit your needs and budget. Find out more on our accommodation pages.
Living costs
We're based in one of the UK's most affordable cities. Find out more about living costs in Cardiff.
Course structure
We are currently working with our students to update and improve the content of this course. The information shown below reflects the current curriculum and is likely to change. The review of the course is expected to be completed by August 2027 and this page will be updated by end of October 2027 to reflect the changes.
This is a 3-year full-time degree, consisting of 120 credits a year, equally split between 60 credits in Welsh and 60 credits in music.
The modules shown are an example of the typical curriculum and will be reviewed prior to the 2027/2028 academic year. The final modules will be published by September 2027.
Year one
You’ll take 120 credits in all – 60 credits in Welsh and 60 credits in music.
You’ll develop key skills (linguistic, analytical, creative, and employability) in the fields of language and literature. We’ll also provide additional arrangements for second language students to develop and practise their language skills.
The first-year modules in music prepare you to take advantage of the creative and intellectual benefits of higher education. It offers instruction in analysis, harmony and counterpoint, history of music, composition, and practical musicianship.
To complement your academic study, you’re actively encouraged to join the University Choir or Orchestra and other ensembles.
| Module title | Module code | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Sgiliau Astudio Llenyddiaeth | CY1513 | 20 credits |
| Sgiliau Iaith | CY1515 | 20 credits |
| Iaith ac Ystyr | CY1600 | 20 credits |
| Awdur, Testun a Darllenydd | CY1601 | 20 credits |
| Y Gymraeg: Iaith a Chymdeithas | CY1757 | 20 credits |
| Y Gymraeg yn ei Chymdeithas | CY1758 | 20 credits |
| Composition 1A | MU1113 | 20 credits |
| Techniques in Jazz and Popular Music | MU1201 | 20 credits |
| Composition 1B | MU1213 | 20 credits |
| Elements of Tonal Theory | MU1311 | 20 credits |
| Writing About Music | MU1312 | 20 credits |
| Music as Culture | MU1320 | 20 credits |
| Case Studies in Music History | MU1321 | 20 credits |
| Practical Portfolio I | MU1322 | 20 credits |
| Practical Musicianship 1 | MU1325 | 20 credits |
Year two
In year 2, you’ll take 60 credits in Welsh and 60 credits in music.
The core linguistic elements of the programme focus on language skills within both an academic and a vocational context and include a period of work experience in a workplace in which Welsh is used daily.
Alongside these core elements, Welsh optional modules include Welsh language, literature and culture, including several with direct relevance to specific fields of employment, such as language planning, scriptwriting and translation.
In music, you’ll focus on more specialist topics, choosing from 4 groups: composition and electroacoustic studies, written and practical musicianship, analytical and critical skills, and historical studies. Modules on the music business – available in year 2 – are designed to help you better understand different branches of the music profession and give an opportunity for a short placement in an area related to music or the arts, either in one block or as a series of regular workplace visits.
| Module title | Module code | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Yr Iaith ar Waith | CY2205 | 20 credits |
| Module title | Module code | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Dafydd ap Gwilym a'i Gyfnod | CY2290 | 20 credits |
| Llenyddiaeth Plant | CY2310 | 20 credits |
| Theori a Beirniadaeth Lenyddol | CY2330 | 20 credits |
| Bywydau Llên | CY2425 | 20 credits |
| Tafodieitheg | CY2450 | 20 credits |
| Sosioieithyddiaeth a’r Gymraeg | CY2650 | 20 credits |
| From Palaces to Proms: A History of Performance Practices (1700-1890) | MU2124 | 20 credits |
| The Business of Music 1 | MU2141 | 20 credits |
| Composition 2A | MU2142 | 20 credits |
| Orchestration | MU2161 | 20 credits |
| Reading Film Sound | MU2181 | 20 credits |
| Music in France Since 1900 | MU2212 | 20 credits |
| Formal Functions in the Classical Tradition | MU2232 | 20 credits |
| Composition 2B | MU2233 | 20 credits |
| Studio Techniques 1 | MU2235 | 20 credits |
| The Business of Music 2 | MU2272 | 20 credits |
| Practical Portfolio 2 | MU2301 | 20 credits |
| Practical Musicianship 2 | MU2361 | 20 credits |
Year three
You’ll take 60 credits in Welsh and 60 credits in music.
In Welsh, you’ll have a choice of an essay or project of 5,000 words (20 credits) or 9,000 words (40 credits), to be completed under the direction of a member of staff who is an expert in the relevant field. This may lead to further research or provide an effective showcase for potential employers. You’ll also choose more optional modules.
In music, you choose again from the 4 subject groups, and can pursue one of the 3 major academic projects: Dissertation, Project in Ethnomusicology, or Project in Music Analysis.
You may complete a short composition portfolio and/or an ‘open’ recital in front of examiners and an invited audience.
| Module title | Module code | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Dafydd ap Gwilym a'i Gyfnod | CY3290 | 20 credits |
| Llenyddiaeth Plant | CY3310 | 20 credits |
| Theori a Beirniadaeth Lenyddol | CY3330 | 20 credits |
| Bywydau Llên | CY3425 | 20 credits |
| Tafodieitheg | CY3450 | 20 credits |
| Sosioieithyddiaeth a’r Gymraeg | CY3650 | 20 credits |
| Yr Ystafell Ddosbarth | CY3660 | 20 credits |
| Cyfieithu Proffesiynol | CY3705 | 20 credits |
| Blas ar Ymchwil | CY3900 | 20 credits |
| Ymchwilio Estynedig | CY3905 | 40 credits |
| Ensemble | MU3138 | 20 credits |
| The Birth of Modernism | MU3165 | 20 credits |
| Jazz, Culture and Politics | MU3171 | 20 credits |
| Studio Techniques 2 | MU3176 | 20 credits |
| Women in 19th Century Music | MU3212 | 20 credits |
| Beethoven: Style, Form and Culture | MU3217 | 20 credits |
| Practical Portfolio 3 | MU3301 | 20 credits |
| Practical Musicianship 3 | MU3302 | 20 credits |
| Composition 3 | MU3353 | 40 credits |
| Extended Written Project | MU3359 | 40 credits |
The University is committed to providing a wide range of module options where possible, but please be aware that whilst every effort is made to offer choice this may be limited in certain circumstances. This is due to the fact that some modules have limited numbers of places available, which are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, while others have minimum student numbers required before they will run, to ensure that an appropriate quality of education can be delivered; some modules require students to have already taken particular subjects, and others are core or required on the programme you are taking. Modules may also be limited due to timetable clashes, and although the University works to minimise disruption to choice, we advise you to seek advice from the relevant School on the module choices available.
Learning and assessment
We provide exciting and challenging teaching in order to help you succeed in a competitive environment. Our teaching is informed and led by research, so you’ll learn about the latest ideas from scholars who are contributing to the development of their specialist subjects.
Each module is supported by electronic teaching materials shared via Learning Central, part of the University’s virtual learning environment.
For Welsh, the teaching is usually delivered through both lectures and seminars which provide you with the opportunity to discuss the subject matter in detail within groups, with all modules being taught through the medium of Welsh. However, there is also an important role to be played by one-on-one tutorials, workshops and language classes (especially for students following the second language route).
Teaching methods on music modules include lectures, seminars, practicals, one-to-one tutorials, rehearsals, and instrumental tuition. You’ll also undertake independent study and research, with guidance from tutors.
How will I be supported?
As well as having regular feedback from your personal tutors (one in Welsh and one in music), you’ll have a reading week each semester for guided study and a chance to catch up on assessed work, reading and revision. These weeks are also used by staff to visit students on their year abroad.
You’ll have access through the Learning Central website to relevant multimedia material, presentations, lecture handouts, bibliographies, further links, electronic exercises, and discussion circles.
You'll also have access to a range of student services and support, co-located in the Centre for Student Life. This includes services relating to Advice and Money, Student Futures, Counselling, Health and Wellbeing, the Student Disability Service, Academic Study Skills and Student Mentoring.
You’ll regularly receive feedback on your work. This comes in a variety of formats including oral feedback during tutorials, personalised feedback on written work, feedback in lectures and seminars, general written feedback, and feedback on tutorial performance.
Coursework will usually be marked by your module tutor, and you’ll be given written feedback on your work. You’ll also have a feedback class after each assessment. You’ll be given general feedback in relation to examinations following the May/June examination period and you’ll be able to discuss your overall performance with your personal tutor as part of the monitored student self-assessment scheme.
How will I be assessed?
We use a range of assessment methods including essays, examinations, presentations, portfolios, and creative assignments.
Essays and examinations are used not only for assessment purposes but also as a means of developing your capacities to gather, organise, evaluate and deploy relevant information and ideas from a variety of sources in reasoned arguments. Dedicated essay workshops and individual advice enable you to produce your best work, and written feedback on essays feeds forward into future work, enabling you to develop your strengths and address any weaker areas.
The optional final-year dissertation provides you with the opportunity to investigate a specific topic of interest to you in depth and to acquire detailed knowledge about a particular field of study, to use your initiative in the collection and presentation of material and present a clear, cogent argument and draw appropriate conclusions.
What skills will I practise and develop?
As a result of engaging fully with this course, you will acquire and develop a range of valuable skills, both those which are discipline specific and more generic ‘employability skills’. These will allow you to:
- grasp complex issues with confidence
- ask the right questions of complex texts
- have an imaginative appreciation of different views and options and analyse these critically
- identify and apply relevant data
- develop practical research skills
- propose imaginative solutions of your own that are rooted in evidence
- communicate clearly, concisely and persuasively in writing and speech
- work to deadlines and priorities, managing a range of tasks at the same time
- learn from constructive criticism and incorporate its insights
- work as part of a team, developing a collaborative approach to problem-solving
- use IT programmes and digital media, where appropriate
- take responsibility for your own learning programme and professional development
Careers and placements
Career prospects
If you’re looking for a career in teaching, academia or the arts, our BA in Welsh and Music is ideal, but it can also lead on to other types of graduate employment or provide the foundation for postgraduate study.
The demand for Welsh speakers means that a degree in Welsh can be highly valuable for jobs and roles that require bilingual speakers. Many of our graduates are now following careers in areas such as law, politics, media, performing arts, administration and education, or engaged in postgraduate study.
Employability skills are embedded in our music modules so that you’ll learn both music-specific and academic skills that are transferable to other domains, especially the workplace. The skills you’ll develop within a music degree will help you progress to a wide range of careers, both within and beyond the music profession.
Graduates have gone on to careers with the BBC, Arts Councils, Glyndebourne Opera, English National Opera, universities, Oxford University Press, the National Trust, and London Symphony Orchestra, along with a range of other industrial, commercial, and charitable organisations.
Placements
Year 2 includes a period of work experience in a workplace in which Welsh is used daily. This period of work experience is part of a programme of events designed to focus on developing employability and career skills.
There are also opportunities to undertake short work placements with music in the second year.
Studying in Welsh
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HESA Data: Copyright Higher Education Statistics Agency Limited 2021. The Higher Education Statistics Agency Limited cannot accept responsibility for any inferences or conclusions derived by third parties from its data. Data is from the latest Graduate Outcomes Survey 2019/20, published by HESA in June 2022.
