Skip to content
The Open University

Diploma

Code
D22
Level
Undergraduate
Made up of
120 credit points

Description

By studying this diploma you will learn the basic techniques and styles of western tonal music; and then have the option to study either the musical processes that lead from composition to performance, or the relationship between words and music.

This diploma is for those who do not want to complete a full degree or who want to obtain an interim qualification on their way to a full degree.

Top

Planning your studies

The Diploma in Music is made up of courses at Level 2 and Level 3 of our undergraduate programme. There are no entry requirements but you must be suitably prepared for study at this level. The normal preparation would be the Level 1 course The arts past and present (AA100) or the discontinued courses A103 or AZX103.

You can register your intention to study for the diploma when you reserve your place on individual courses, or you can ask us at any time to link courses that you have already studied towards the diploma. This gives you the flexibility to delay your decision or to change your mind as your studies progress. There is no time limit for obtaining the required credit points for this qualification. You must include at least 40 points from OU courses that have not been counted in an OU diploma or other first degree you have been awarded.

Top

Courses

For this 120-point diploma you require:

60 points from the following compulsory course:

Level 2 compulsory course Points Next start
Understanding music: elements, techniques and styles (A214)

This practical and theoretical course teaches basic techniques and styles of western classical music, including analysing harmony and form, keyboard playing, score reading and composition.

See full description.

60 Feb 2010 FINAL

And 60 points from the following optional courses:

Level 3 optional courses Points Next start
From composition to performance: musicians at work (AA302)

Examine the processes by which music is created and transmitted – composition, improvisation, performance, editing, and publication – across a wide variety of musical traditions and periods.

See full description.

60 Feb 2010
Words and music (AA317)

Song is, and always has been, central to humanity. But why? Explore possible answers through a huge diversity of time periods, musical styles and literature.

See full description.

60 Feb 2010

Or, subject to the rules about excluded combinations, the discontinued courses A304, A308, A314, AA314

Top

Learning outcomes

The learning outcomes of this qualification are described in four areas:

  • Knowledge and understanding
  • Cognitive skills
  • Practical and professional skills
  • Key skills

Read more detailed information about the learning outcomes, and how they are acquired through teaching, learning and assessment methods.

Top

Credit for previous study elsewhere

For this qualification, we do not allow you to count credit for study you have already done elsewhere.

Top

On completion

On successful completion of the required courses you will be awarded a Diploma in Music and will be entitled to use the letters Dip Mus (Open) after your name.

Top

Regulations

As a student of The Open University, you should be aware of the content of the Award Regulations and the Student Regulations.

Award Regulations

Student Regulations

The Student Regulations (including the Code of Practice for Student Assessment and the Code of Practice for Student Discipline) are available on our Policy Documents for Students website.

Top

How to register

To register for this qualification, read the description and check you meet any specific requirements (for example, some of our qualifications, require you to be working in a particular environment, or be sponsored by your employer). Then select the course you wish to study first and ensure it is suitable for you before following the registration procedure for that course.

Top

About this page

An undergraduate qualification in Arts and Humanities.

Study explained

Credit points
- show how much study is required to complete a course or qualification. One credit point represents roughly 10 hours of study.
Level
- indicates how difficult a course is. Undergraduate study starts at Level 1.
Financial support
- find out if you qualify for support with your fees with our eligibility checker.
Study explained
- all you need to know about studying with the OU.

Got a question?

Contact an adviser in our Student Registration & Enquiry Service
Email or call +44(0) 845 300 60 90

Request a print prospectus

Order a prospectus Order or download a printed prospectus

© The Open University   +44 (0)845 300 60 90   Email us