When do applications open?
Applications open from 1st November. We encourage all prospective students to apply before 1st July each year.
How do I apply?
You can request an applications form from our Admissions Team by emailing [email protected] or calling +353 1 5133 666.We encourage all prospective students to apply before 5pm on 1st July each year.
I have applied, what happens next?
Once you have applied we will contact you with the details of your audition. Applicants will receive at least 10 days’ notice. Auditions will commence from March 2020 & will continue throughout the summer.
I don’t live in Ireland; can I still apply?
International applications are welcome and video auditions can be arranged if applicants are unable to travel to our campus.
Please note as this is a part-time course, NON-EU students are required to investigate the visa requirements for part-time study in Ireland. Further information can be found at http://www.inis.gov.ie/.
I missed the deadline, can I still apply?
Please contact the team on [email protected] or calling +353 1 5133 666 to discuss this further.
What will the Foundation Diploma in Professional Musicianship prepare me for?
As with all courses at BIMM, the Foundation Diploma in Professional Musicianship is designed to help students establish a sustainable career within the music industry.
This programme enhances student employability prospects in a variety of areas in the music and creative industries including the following: commercial band performance, live session playing, playing on recording sessions, stage management, music composition, performing in both wedding and cover function bands, musical theatre, working in a variety of roles in music venues, working in live music agencies and teaching music.
What are the entry requirements?
The minimum entry requirements for this course is the successful completion of one module at QQI Level 5. This is equivalent to one subject at Leaving Certificate level. The minimum grade accepted at Leaving Certificate is 1O6 (formerly one Ordinary Level D3).
Applicants must be 17 on 1st January in the year of entry.
To receive an unconditional offer for the course applicants must submit evidence of the minimum academic requirements where applicable. Applicants are required to submit a scanned copy of their exam transcripts to BIMM. All examination transcripts are reviewed before a formal offer and contract can be sent. Upon receipt of contract, applicants are required to return the signed contract along with a €300 deposit within 21 days of receipt to secure their place.
Overseas students where English is not their native language must meet a minimum English language requirement of IELTS 6.0 or equivalent.
In addition to achieving academic qualifications, all applicants must complete an individual audition to assess their musical ability Applicants choose to audition in one of five areas of specialism: Guitar, Bass, Drums, Vocals or Songwriting.
Can I apply as a Mature Student?
Yes! Mature Applicants must be 23 on 1st January in the year of application to be classified as mature student. The primary entry criteria for consideration will be interview.
What are the fees?
The fees for the course are €2,450 and are payable upon enrolment. A deposit of €300 will be required to secure your place.
Can I pay the fees in instalments?
A deposit of €300 will be required to secure your place. The balance of the course fees can then be paid with a once off payment or our finance team will be happy to discuss a payment plan with you upon enrolment. A monthly instalment of about €390 per month is required until the course fee payment is complete.
Can I get a grant?
Unfortunately, as the Foundation Diploma in Professional Musicianship is a part-time course, students are not eligible for grants or funding from Student Universal Support Ireland.
Is there a scholarship available?
We are yet to confirm the available scholarships for 2023/24 but do keep an eye on our socials and website for more information.
Will I take classes with Commercial Modern Music, Music Business or Music & Audio Production students?
You will not share classes with other BA or Diploma courses however you will have the opportunity to meet other students at networking events and gigs. All Diploma students are welcome and encouraged to audition for gigs such as Live & Lyrical, End of Term alongside our other students. And we also have a specific Diploma in Professional Musicianship gig.
Can I apply for the BA(Hons) in Commercial Modern Music after this course?
The BA (Hons) in Commercial Modern Music is a four-year full-time degree validated by Technological University Dublin. Students choose to study one of 5 streams: Guitar, Bass, Drums, Vocals or Songwriting. Graduates of the Foundation Diploma can apply, in fact on average 75% % of Diploma students apply to progress to the BA (Hons) in Commercial Modern Music. Some Diploma Students progressing are advanced directly into the second year of the BA (Hons) Commercial Modern Music programme. All academic requirements are reviewed by TU Dublin.
The course is validated by BIMM Institute at the equivalent of Level 6 on the Irish NFQ. ( Graduates achieve 60 CATS credits at UK Level 4 which if the equivalent of 30 ECTS credits at Level 6 on the Irish National Framework of Qualifications).
All Irish & EU applications must be made through the CAO at www.cao.ie/apply.php using the course code TU 961.
Applications open from November and close at 5.15pm on 1st February.
If you have any questions, please contact our admissions team on [email protected].
Can I take part in the BIMM Study Exchange Programme?
As this course is a part-time course scheduled over only one academic year, transfer to another BIMM college is not possible.
What facilities are available for BIMM Dublin Students?
As a student at BIMM Dublin, you will be taught by a range of successful music industry professionals on a daily basis. You’ll also have the opportunity for tutorials with our teaching team.
Weekly we bring in special guests and run masterclasses – giving you even more insight into working in the music industry, and an opportunity to build your connections.
Alongside lessons we run clubs, such as Keyboard Club and Business Club. We offer to unlimited career tutorials, so you can discuss your future music industry goals and pastoral meetings with our dedicated Student Services team to help you deal with any personal issued whilst you’re studying.
As musicians, you’ll be able to rehearse on campus with full back-line equipment during the day and evening. Evening rehearsals run from 6pm – 10pm Monday to Friday.
What is the timetable like – how many hours will I have each week?
The Foundation Diploma in Professional Musicianship will take place over 4.5 hours per week scheduled over one day. The course is normally scheduled on Fridays however timetable for 2023-24 entry will be confirmed upon enrolment.
