Anyone who wishes to become a professional musician should consider a music instrumental program. A degree can usually allow a student to specialize in an instrument or vocals. The student will generally study their chosen instrument in depth, as well as broader subjects including ear training, theory and composition.

Achieving high scores on A-levels is important for UK students who wish to enter university. Institutions of higher learning use the results of these exams to decide if a student is prepared to study at their program.