Academics

Music education for creative visionaries.

We teach students to apply creative methodologies & heuristic strategies that help unlock artistic potential and generate original ideas. Students are also trained in applied research methods — developing critical listening, contextual awareness, and the ability to reflect on their own cultural background as a source of creative insight. The curriculum integrates advanced analog and digital technologies across the full music creation cycle — from production & distribution to audience engagement. We place a strong emphasis on understanding music not only as an art form, but also as a product within the global entertainment industry. Students explore how musical works are conceptualized, produced, packaged, marketed, and positioned for different platforms, global and regional music markets. 

Admissions

The admission process starts with a simple first step — sending in your application. For short-term courses, that’s all you need. For long-term programs we’ll ask you also to share a motivational video, submit a portfolio, and join us for a short interview. These steps help us understand your background and ensure you’re ready for sustained learning, collaborative projects, and creative challenges — the kind of work that defines our long-term programs. Each program has its own set of requirements, which you’ll find detailed on the individual course pages.

How to apply

Submit your application form
Send a motivational video (for long-term programs)
Share your portfolio (for long-term programs)
Attend an interview (for long-term programs)

Fees & Scholarships

The total cost of studying consists of three components: a registration fee, a resource fee and a KHDA approved tuition fee. This structure ensures transparency and flexibility, with fees varying depending on the format and duration of the chosen program.

Academic Year 2025–2026

Fee	Shorts	Basic skills	Pro skills
Registration Fee	—	AED 1,285	AED 2,200
Resources Fee	AED 325	AED 1,300	AED 3,900
Tuition Fee	AED 3,675	AED 12,850	AED 22,000
Total Cost	AED 4,000	AED 15,000	AED 28,100

All prices listed are exclusive of VAT.
The registration fee is a one-time, non-refundable payment applied to long-term programs only.
No registration fee is required for short-format courses.
Resource Fee is a one-time fee that applies to every course and covers access to facilities and resources.

Scholarships

At Digital Renaissance, we believe in removing barriers for those who have something to say. Supporting emerging talent, promoting diversity, and strengthening the role of women in the music community are at the core of our values. That’s why, from time to time, we offer individual scholarships to newly admitted students. These scholarships are awarded through a competitive application process and may cover either partial or full tuition fees. If you’re passionate, original, and committed — we want to hear your voice.

Stay tuned for announcements, as scholarship opportunities are posted through our official channels.

FAQs

What programs do you offer, and what is the difference between short courses and long-term programs?

We offer short courses as well as 6- and 9-month long-term programs. Short courses focus on specific skills or tools and are beginner-friendly, with no admission interview or assessment required.

These 6-month programs provide an in-depth introduction to the field — focusing on conceptual understanding and skill development, without portfolio output requirements.

Our 9-month programs offer a complete learning cycle — from creative development and contextual research to production, live performance, and release. They include everything covered in the 6-month programs, plus additional disciplines essential for professional work, portfolio development, music releases, and a strong industry debut. Designed for students who aim to build a professional portfolio and step confidently into the music industry.

How do I apply, what documents are required, and are auditions or portfolios needed?

For short, beginner-friendly courses, simply send your application via the course page — no portfolio or interview is required. For the 6-month Basic Skills programs, an interview is part of the admissions process. For the 9-month Professional Skills programs, applicants must submit a motivation video and a portfolio, followed by an interview.

Are there scholarships or financial aid available, and how can I apply for them?

From time to time, we offer individual scholarships to support admitted students with strong creative or research-driven visions. These scholarships are awarded competitively and may cover part or all of the tuition.

Scholarships are typically granted to encourage the development of meaningful, relevant projects — whether artistic or analytical — that explore current issues and push creative boundaries.

Opportunities are announced through our official channels, and students are invited to apply during the open scholarship cycle.

Do you accept international students, and what are the visa requirements for studying in Dubai?

Digital Renaissance provides student visa support for international students enrolled in full-time programs and who have completed all required payments. The visa is valid for one year and must be renewed annually. To begin the visa process, students must submit:

A completed visa application form
A passport copy (valid for at least 6 months)
A passport-sized color photo
Proof of valid health insurance compliant with Dubai Health Authority (DHA) standards
Any additional documents requested by the admissions team

Students are required to maintain valid medical insurance throughout their stay. Our admissions office will support you through the visa application process and provide guidance at every step.

Is previous musical education or experience with production tools like DAWs required to apply?

It depends on the program. Our short courses and Basic skills programs are designed to be beginner-friendly — no prior music education or experience is required. These courses are intended as a first step into music education and hands-on creative practice.

In contrast, the Professional Skills programs require applicants to demonstrate prior musical experience. While formal education is an advantage, it is not mandatory — self-taught musicians are welcome. What matters most is the strength of the portfolio, not the presence of certificates or diplomas. For the Music Industries program, relevant professional experience is also expected.

What does a typical weekly schedule look like, and can I study part-time or in the evenings?

Our long-term programs are designed with flexibility in mind: classes are held on weekday evenings, typically from 7:00 PM to 10:15 PM — making it possible to balance your studies with work or other commitments. Short courses are offered either on weekday evenings or weekends during the day, depending on the format. This scheduling allows students to fit their learning into busy personal or professional lives without compromising on quality or access to resources.

Will I have access to professional equipment, studios, and music production software during the course?

Yes — all students have access to professional tools and facilities, but the level of access depends on the program. Students enrolled in short (3-month) courses can use the equipment during their scheduled class times.

Basic Skills (6-month) programs students have broader access to institute facilities, including outside of class hours — with the exception of Production Pods and the Recording Studio. Professional Skills (9-month) programs students are granted full access to all facilities, including Production Pods and the Recording Studio, for both scheduled sessions and independent work.

Do I receive a certificate or diploma upon completion, and is the program accredited or industry-recognized?

Yes. Upon successful completion of your course, you will receive a certificate issued by Digital Renaissance Music Institute, approved by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA).

Students who complete 3-month short courses receive an Attendance Certificate.
Students who complete Basic Skills (6-month) or Professional Skills (9-month) programs receive a Certificate of Completion.

These certificates are officially recognized in the UAE by employers and industry professionals.

Are there performance, portfolio, or real-world project opportunities during the program?

Select programs — particularly our 9-month Professional Skills tracks — offer opportunities to participate in live showcases, collaborative projects, and real-world production scenarios. In these programs, students should release their work on streaming platforms and take part in public events, building a strong, practice-based portfolio. Short courses and Basic Skills programs focus on foundational skills and creative development. They do not include public performance or publishing components by default — although students are always welcome to join showcases if they feel ready and if the lineup allows.

Young Teens between the ages 13 to 18, can they do the advanced courses?

Admission to advanced courses depends on the student’s skill level, maturity, and commitment. While most advanced programs are designed for adults, highly motivated teens with a strong foundation and clear goals may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
If you’re between 13 and 18 and passionate about music, we encourage you to get in touch — our admissions team will help assess which program is the right fit for you.

Where are the teachers from?

Our instructors come from a variety of international backgrounds including the UAE, Europe, the UK, the US, Asia and the wider MENA region.
What unites them is a deep passion for music, real-world industry experience, and a shared commitment to inspiring the next generation of artists.

What is their professional background or industry experience?

Every instructor at Digital Renaissance is a working professional in the music industry — including artists, producers, DJs, musicians, engineers, and managers.
They bring experience from record labels, production houses, recording studios, and clubs — ensuring that your education is grounded in practical, up-to-date knowledge and real creative mentorship.

Do guest lecturers or industry professionals conduct sessions?

Yes, this is an integral part of our program. We regularly invite guest lecturers and industry professionals to share cutting-edge insights and offer a variety of perspectives.

Can we choose the days we attend?

In most cases, the schedule is fixed. But for certain courses, there may be some flexibility — with options to choose between 2 or 3 different days, depending on the course structure.

What is the class schedule?

We aim to schedule most classes on weekday evenings, from 7:00 PM to 10:15 PM, making it easier for students to combine their studies with a job or university commitments during the day.
However, some courses will also take place on weekends, both during the day and in the evening.
You’ll be able to preview a sample timetable in advance to get a sense of the rhythm, and once you complete the enrollment process, you’ll receive the final schedule.

What happens if I miss a class?

We understand that life happens — but regular attendance is important. Attending classes regularly will help you get the most value from your studies. Each session offers unique knowledge, guidance, and hands-on experience that build on each other, so being present will make your learning journey smoother and more rewarding.
If you miss too many classes, it may affect your grades or certificate eligibility, depending on how many sessions you missed and the reasons behind your absence. If something serious comes up, we encourage you to reach out to the team — we’re here to support you.

Are make-up classes available?

Make-up classes are not offered by default. However, if you miss the majority of a course due to serious and unavoidable circumstances, you may be allowed to retake that course in a future term — provided it is offered again and there are available spots.
We always strive to support our students and provide the best possible learning experience. That said, your own commitment and consistency play a crucial role in your success at Digital Renaissance.

Do you offer internships or job placements?

Yes, for our long-term professional-level programs, we offer internship opportunities and career support to help you gain real industry experience and build your career.

Do you help students network with industry professionals?

Absolutely! We create many opportunities for students to connect with industry professionals — through direct interaction with our instructors, guest sessions, industry visits, and various extracurricular activities designed to expand your professional network in the music world.

Do you assist with portfolio or demo reel creation?

Yes — this is a key part of our approach. Every course, even foundational ones like Music Theory, leads to a practical outcome — whether it’s a self-produced track or a performance-ready piece.
The scope and complexity of your final work depends on the format and length of the program:

3-month programs result in demo recordings and individual tracks or creative projects.
6-month programs focus on building a professional portfolio.
9-month programs are designed to guide you toward releasing a complete music project.

Our goal is to make sure you leave with real, tangible work that reflects your progress and creativity.