Practical classes combined with industry-orientated studio work, live sound, radio production, and video are the core fields within the National N Diploma curriculum. Dedicated lecturers will teach learners the necessary skills to apply for a variety of jobs in the professional audio engineering and music production industry.
This National N Diploma in Popular Music: Studio Work (NDipSE) is a 50/50 mixture of theoretical classes and hands-on practical training in an active audio production environment. Students will create music recordings, produce music, do live shows, radio adverts, jingles all within the confines of the largest private recording studio.
Students write national examinations that are marked and moderated by the Department of Higher Education (DHET). Successful learners will complete the following components:
- National Certificate: N4 Popular Music: Studio Work (SAQA ID# 66912; NQF Level 5)
- National Certificate: N5 Popular Music: Studio Work (SAQA ID# 66980; NQF Level 5)
- National Certificate: N6 Popular Music: Studio Work (SAQA ID# 67015; NQF Level 5)
On completion of 18 months or 2000 hours’ relevant practical experience:
- National N Diploma: Popular Music: Studio Work (SAQA ID# 67054; NQF Level 6
N4 Level
- Sound Engineering
- Electronic Music & Keyboard Techniques
- Arranging & Production
- Music Business & Styles
- PC and Mac Skills
N5 Level
- Sound Engineering
- Electronic Music & Keyboard Techniques
- Arranging & Production
- Music Business & Styles
- PC and Mac Skills
N6 Level
- Sound Engineering
- Electronic Music & Keyboard Techniques
- Arranging & Production
- Music Business & Style
Duration
The duration to completion is three years. Theoretical lectures are held each day followed by hands-on practical in the studios. Students that complete the N4 - N6 modules and 18 months practical/2000 hours or relevant studio work will be awarded the sought-after N Diploma: Studio work (Sound Engineering).