Sound Engineering & Design

About the course

Both the FdSc and BSc courses begin with the fundamentals of sound systems, studio principles and associated professional software taught in a highly hands-on manner. This continues into the second year but with a more in-depth approach to sound engineering concepts. Options are available too in radio and TV programming, special effects and computer game design so that students can gain a wider experience of the applications of sound engineering.

Students initially registered for the FdSc will be eligible to progress onto the final year of the BSc (Hons) course after successful completion of the Foundation Degree.

In the final year of the BSc (Hons) degree students will further develop their post-production techniques, study live sound, examine the business issues relevant to the digital media industries and also undertake a large project.

What you will learn

These courses are “skills rich”. In addition to acquiring the specific skills for sound engineering, you will also develop those vocational skills necessary to pursue a career in the audio and related industries. Teaching is heavily practically-based in studios and computer suites.

Recognised, key transferable skills are also embedded in the courses. These include written and presentational skills, analytical reasoning, inter-personal skills and self-management. You will also develop your ability to analyse, evaluate and resolve problems.

We use a wide variety of learning methodologies, including studio and computer laboratory sessions, demonstrations, activity-based assignments and the work-based placement. Assessment is linked to the objectives of each module. This may be by assignments, small projects, tests (practical and written), a demonstration or viva as appropriate.

Special features

• One of the distinctive features of our degrees in Sound Engineering and Design is the work-placement content undertaken in a commercial, audio-engineering environment.

• Having been a commercial recording studio and training school for 25 years, the School of Sound Recording in Manchester has a large list of studio contacts around the North West. These include local radio and TV as well as concert halls, theatres and digital media companies where students can be placed.

• Also, because of these links and its local and national reputation, the School of Sound Recording is able to maintain a profile of studio tutors that have either recent or current experience of the sound engineering industries as professional engineers.

Careers and professional development

Career opportunities exist in many areas of sound production. Examples include audio engineer, studio designer, sound designer, production mixer, sound recordist, music editor, music technician or Foley artist. Employment opportunities exist in TV and radio broadcasting, recording studios, multimedia and new media firms, and film and computer games production companies.

Graduates may wish to become members of a professional society after having gained appropriate experience in their field of employment. Two well-regarded societies are the Audio Engineering Society. Their web pages describe the scope of the society and the entry requirements for the different grades of membership.

Professional recognition

Students will have the opportunity to be assessed for the internationally recognised qualifications in ProTools by Digidesign

There are a number of levels of ProTools qualification to which students may wish to proceed. However, this will involve additional cost.

Mode of attendance: Full-time