Popular Music (BMus) SRH University

The programme is taught in English.

The BMus Popular Music programme is a playing field for musicians who want to do their thing. Therefore, the promotion of one's own musical abilities and artistic identity is at the centre of the studies.

Throughout the entire course of studies, a mix of individual main subject lessons, minor subject lessons, ensemble lessons, repertoire and accompaniment coaching forms the practical basis for honing one's musical skills, trying out one's interactions with others and developing one's own styles.

Lecturers from the field support students working on their own material – even beyond the teaching activities. A club concert series, regular living room concerts, jam sessions, and live panels with music editors, labels and publishers as well as various practical projects offer numerous opportunities to prove oneself in front of an audience and to network with representatives of the music business.

Intakes: April & October

Mode of study: We believe that sustainable learning is only possible if there is enough space for experimentation, games and critical thinking. That is why we have completely restructured the classical course of studies. Read more about our CORE Principle.

Non-EU/EEA applicants: Please apply by 1 February (April intake) or 15 August (October intake). We also recommend that you apply early (at least four months before the start of your programme).

EU/EEA applicants: Please apply by 1 April (April intake) or 1 October (October intake).

• Non-EU/EEA tuition fees: 4,950 EUR per semester
• EU/EEA (including Switzerland, Western Balkans and Ukraine) tuition fees: 790 EUR per month

Please note: The monthly/semester tuition fees remain the same for the entire duration of the study programme.

First semester

• Recording Techniques
• Musical Analysis
• Music Theory
• Practice Project I
• Instrument Major I / Ensemble I / Instrument Minor I
• Pop Music History

Second semester

• Music Theory – Harmony
• Performance Practice I
• Elective I – Choir & Body Percussion
• Practice Project II
• Instrument Major II / Instrument Minor II / Ensemble II
• Musicology

Third semester

• Songwriting
• Composition
• Studio techniques
• Practice Project III
• Instrument Major III / Instrument Minor III / Ensemble III
• Media Law – Music & Sound

Fourth semester

• Arrangement
• Performance Training
• Elective II
• Practice Project IV
• Instrument Major IV / Instrument Minor IV/  Ensemble IV
• Language/Physiology

Fifth semester

• Internship or Study Abroad

Sixth semester

• Pedagogy I
• Arrangement II
• Elective III (Correpetition & Repertoire)
• Practice Project V
• Instrument Major V / Instrument Minor V / Ensemble V
• Artist Development I

Seventh semester

• Pedagogy II
• Elective IV
• Instrument Major VI / Instrument Minor VI / Ensemble VI
• Artist Development II
• Bachelor's Thesis

Students have the opportunity to do an internship in the fifth semester.

4,740 EUR

• Non-EU/EEA tuition fees: 4,950 EUR per semester
• EU/EEA (including Switzerland, Western Balkans and Ukraine) tuition fees: 790 EUR per month

Please note: The monthly/semester tuition fees remain the same for the entire duration of the study programme.

None

Approx. 950–1,000 EUR per month for personal expenses

Students may purchase a discounted semester ticket or a discounted "Deutschlandticket" for public transport.

• General higher education entrance qualification (Abitur) or university of applied sciences entrance qualification (Fachhochschulreife)
• CV
• Two songs in MP3 format: for your studies, you must choose and present an instrument (or vocals) as your main subject. Please upload your own compositions or interpretations of foreign works with your application (each lasting one to four minutes).
• Letter of motivation: why do you want to study Popular Music with us? What do you expect from your studies? Where do you see yourself in the future? (maximum two pages)
• Proof of English language proficiency
• Copy of your identity card or passport

The following English proficiency tests are accepted:

• TOEFL Internet-based: 87
• TOEIC listening/reading: 785, speaking: 160, writing: 150
• IELTS/IELTS Online (academic): 6.5
• CAE (grades A, B, or C)
• CPE (grades A, B, or C)
• Pearson English Test Academic (PTE-A): 59 points
• Linguaskill: 176 to 184 (CES) – all four skills required
• B2 First: 173
• Duolingo: 110 points

Non-EU/EEA applicants: Please apply by 1 February (April intake) or 15 August (October intake). We also recommend that you apply early (at least four months before the start of your programme).

EU/EEA applicants: Please apply by 1 April (April intake) or 1 October (October intake).

• SRH offers partial scholarships for talented international students.
• EU students can also benefit from our range of "study now – pay later" financing options.
• Please check our website for more information here.

Working as a non-EU citizen: In possession of a valid German residence permit for study purposes, you are allowed to work for up to 120 full days (full day = eight hours per day) or 240 half days (half day = four hours) during the calendar year. However, freelance work is not permitted. Internships that are mandatory for the successful completion of your studies at SRH do not count towards the above-named 120 full days.

Employment that is considered “student part-time work” ("studentische Nebentätigkeit", e.g. employment as a student worker at a university or in a university-related organisation or "Werkstudent" activities at companies that are related to your studies) can be done without any time restrictions.

We do not own any student dormitories or hostels. However, we provide assistance in selecting accommodation prior to and after your arrival in Berlin.

Our Career Service supports students and alumni in planning their careers and sharpening their professional profile. Our service portfolio includes:

• Consultation services for students
• Career trainings and workshops
• Annual "Career Day" with job fair and workshops
• Support in finding a job or an internship for graduates and students

We are the SRH University, part of the non-profit SRH Holding based in Heidelberg.

We offer state-accredited Bachelor's, Master's, and MBA programmes in English and German. Our curricula are built around the CORE Principle, emphasising hands-on, project-based learning in five-week blocks. Our programmes focus on management and logistics, engineering and architecture, computer and data science, hospitality and therapy, design and creative industries, and music and film.

With 19 campuses across Germany, we host a diverse student body from over 100 countries, contributing to our vibrant international atmosphere.

Our approach includes practical work experiences and professional networking opportunities, preparing students for successful global careers.

Berlin, Germany's capital, is a hub for politics, media, science, and education. It's the country’s largest city, offering a vibrant cultural scene with rich nightlife and historical sites. Berlin's dynamic start-up scene is attractive to tech and creative industries. Despite rising costs, it remains affordable compared to other Western European capitals.

Cologne is known for its relaxed culture, famous cathedral, and rich Roman history. It offers a vibrant academic and cultural scene with excellent job opportunities in media and other industries. Cologne is well-connected, making it easy to explore nearby cities.

Dresden combines a vibrant cultural scene with affordable living costs. Known for historical sights like the Zwinger and Semperoper, it offers good job prospects in microelectronics and IT. Its scenic location and rich cultural events make it an attractive city for students and young professionals.

Hamburg, Germany's second-largest city, is a major trade and logistics hub in north-western Europe. With a high standard of living and moderate costs, it offers career opportunities in IT, media, logistics, and renewable energy sectors. Famous for its harbour and nightlife, Hamburg is a city rich in water-related and cultural activities.

Hamm combines historical charm with modern innovation. It offers low living costs and affordable housing suitable for students. Home to Germany's first Bachelor's degree programme in logistics at the SRH Hamm campus, the city provides a close-knit community feel and is growing in industries like energy and logistics.

Heidelberg is known for its romantic ambiance and vibrant cultural and academic atmosphere. The city offers a picturesque landscape ideal for outdoor activities, with strong sectors in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and academia.

Leipzig is an economic hub with a growing population, offering career opportunities in technology, digitalisation, and life sciences. It has a vibrant music and cultural scene and remains one of Germany's more affordable major cities.

Stuttgart is a centre for technology and innovation, home to companies like Mercedes Benz and Porsche. It offers excellent educational and career prospects in engineering and sustainable technologies, supported by a vibrant cultural scene.

Munich, Bavaria's capital, is a leading German hub for economy, science, and education with high living standards. Home to top universities and research, it excels in high-tech industries, offering great careers. Near the Alps and lakes, it provides rich leisure options. Though pricier, its appeal and opportunities make it a desirable place to study and work.