NC Sound Production SCQF level 6

The National Certificate (NC) in Sound Production at SCQF level 6 provides candidates with appropriate skills and knowledge in sound production, music business and performance through a mix of mandatory Units and a wide range of optional Units. The framework has been deliberately kept broad so that candidates can follow different routes and can acquire skills and knowledge in particular fields depending on their needs and interests.

The NC is designed to meet the needs of those who require a foundation for progression to further study or potential employment.

National Certificates (NCs) are designed for full-time delivery over one year (or part-time over two years) and are available through schools, colleges and training providers.

Alternative assessment guidance

The following optional guidance can be used to support delivery and assessment as an alternative to the approaches outlined in the Group Award / Unit specification.

Optional assessment guidance 2023-24

Qualification structure

Group Award code: G977 46 (72 SCQF credit points)
SCQF level: 6

Arrangements Documents - NC Sound Production at SCQF level 6 (116 KB)

Unit specifications can be accessed by entering the appropriate Unit code or title into the NQ Unit Search facility, or into our site search engine.

A number of the Units have accompanying Assessment Support Packs (ASPs). Please contact your SQA Co-ordinator to access these.

Unit search

How to assess

The structure and content of the NC in Sound Production have been developed to allow for integrative and cross assessment. The use of an integrated and linked delivery methodology provides more meaningful learning experiences and promotes an increased coherence between the Units.

The assessment strategy aims for a balanced approach to assessment as well as complementary and supplementary methods of assessment which reflect the nature of the subject area. The majority of assessment is practical based.

Deliver this qualification

Resources

Why study this qualification

The NC in Sound Production is aimed at school leavers, adult returners or those working in the music industry. It is a starting point for those interested in working in the music industry or as Continuous Professional Development for those already employed in some capacity.

It is developed to accommodate a diverse range of musical styles/genres and instruments and could be the start of continued study.

Access

Access is at the discretion of the centre, though candidates would benefit from previous experience of a Sound Production Course/Units or National Courses in Music: Performing with Technology at Intermediate 1 or 2.

Candidates would also be expected to have an interest and some experience of sound production. Relevant work experience would also be acceptable.

Some of the Units indicate prior attainment which would be useful. Some candidates may, for example, have relevant attainment such as Standard Grade at General or Credit level which suggests that they can successfully embark on a qualification at SCQF level 6. Others, particularly adult returners, may have suitable life or work experience which indicates that they will be able to tackle the Units.

Employment and progression

The NC has been designed to allow candidates to articulate onto the HNC/HND Sound Production programme. Given the high level of commonality between this qualification and the National Certificate in Music, successful candidates could also possibly articulate onto the HNC/HND Music programme and HNC/HND Music Business programme.

The majority of those achieving the NC are likely to progress to HN Sound Production or HN Music related programmes. Successful candidates could possibly find employment in studio engineering, live sound engineering, sound design or technical support.

Qualification structure

Group Award code: G977 46 (72 SCQF credit points)
SCQF level: 6

Arrangements Documents - NC Sound Production at SCQF level 6 (116 KB)

Unit specifications can be accessed by entering the appropriate Unit code or title into the NQ Unit Search facility, or into our site search engine.

A number of the Units have accompanying Assessment Support Packs (ASPs). Please contact your SQA Co-ordinator to access these.

Unit search