Program Overview

A postgraduate pathway is a single course comprising two stages of study; Pre-Master’s and Master’s. When you successfully complete the full pathway you will be awarded a Master’s degree from Hertfordshire International College (HIC).

Advantage of Hertfordshire International College (HIC) Postgraduate Pathway

The postgraduate pathway is designed for students from a variety of backgrounds who:

• Require additional English language training
• Come from a different academic environment to that of the UK
• Have been away from studies for a period of time
• Are looking to fine-tune skills already gained during undergraduate studies, employment or both

If you fall into any of the above categories, choosing the postgraduate pathway at Hertfordshire International College (HIC) is the right decision.

The Pre-Master’s pathway will prepare you for future postgraduate studies by giving you confidence and expertise in areas relevant to your taught Master’s degree. You will:

• Develop your fundamental knowledge and understanding of the basic principles relevant to your chosen degree
• Develop basic numerical techniques, research methodologies and ICT, presentation and communication skills
• Gain a competent set of transferable skills that will help you in your academic studies and future career, and enable you to make informed decisions
• Attain the necessary level of language competence specific to your chosen field of study.

Pre-Master's (Stage 1)

The Pre-Master’s course is Stage 1 of the postgraduate pathway, it has been designed to prepare students who have not qualified for direct entry to Hertfordshire International College (HIC) Master’s degrees, for postgraduate level studies.

Undertaking a Pre-Master’s course will provide you with the time to adjust to the rigorous research and independent study requirements of postgraduate studies and prepare you to get the most out of your postgraduate study at Hertfordshire International College (HIC).

Master's (Stage 2)

The Master’s (Stage 2) offers students the chance to build on what they have learned during the Pre-Master’s and extend their professional understanding about their relevant area of study. A taught Master’s degree usually consists of a series of specialist modules in structured class, seminar or tutorial formats. A research thesis component may be included, but is much shorter than what is required for a Master’s degree by research. However, most taught masters’ degrees will have a final major project or dissertation component. The Master’s (Stage 2) is delivered by Hertfordshire International College (HIC).

MSc Music and Sound for Film and Games

• BAFTA approved. BAFTA endorsement is a significant recognition of the industry focus of the course and means that you can be sure you will be studying on a course that has been recognised as fully industry-relevant by THE leading organisation in the sector. As stated on the BAFTA website, "The eligible courses have been identified by industry professionals as producing students ready to work in film, games or television".
• Develop a showreel demonstrating your creative talent in composing music and designing sound for a wide range of media (video, film, video games), opening up a 360º horizon of possibilities and opportunities for work.
• Collaborate with MA Film students in our School of Creative Arts.
• Learn in the university’s top-class facilities, assisted by tutors who are themselves industry professionals

Why choose this course?

• This course is conceived to meet the current industry’s demand for creative professionals who are equally versed in music composition as well as sound design, and can work effectively across a range of media – whether it’s video, narrative film or interactive games.
• All aspects of the soundtrack are systematically explored in both linear and non-linear environments, leading to a fuller understanding of the discipline, of the industry, and of the production processes.
• On this course, you will harness the whole gamut of sonic resources for your creative practice – from acoustic instruments to electroacoustic sound, utilising all the latest studio techniques and technologies.
• You’ll study in the University’s top-class studios, supported by tutors who are experienced industry professionals, with potential to collaborate with students from our MA Film course.
• With targeted sessions and expert guidance, you’ll develop a showreel demonstrating your creative talent in providing sound and music for a wide range of media (video, film, video games), opening up a 360º horizon of possibilities and opportunities for work.