Bath Spa University - With a song in their hearts

A masters degree in songwriting has been introduced at Bath Spa University. Students on the course will write songs and perform them, comment critically on material, examine the musicological roots of their craft, record a portfolio of songs and consider the potential value of their work in the marketplace. Professional songwriters, including Ivor Novello award winner Iain Archer, are on the teaching staff. Andrew West, the course's director, said: "Although widely taught ... at undergraduate level, there has not previously been an opportunity for students to continue their study of songwriting at postgraduate level."