Course description

Drive the next generation of audio technology with the help of this distinctive masters programme. Underpinned by pioneering research, excellent teaching and first-rate facilities, our MSc Audio Engineering equips you with the skills and knowledge valued most by employers in the rapidly changing and dynamic field of audio engineering.

• Hone your skills on a cutting-edge MSc programme developed in consultation with industry leaders
• Gain up-to-the-minute knowledge in areas which are central to the needs of the sector, including audio electronics, live sound reinforcement, surround sound systems and software engineering
• Prepare for high-level careers in the industry: our graduates have gone on to work for world-leading firms such as d&b audiotechnik, Bowers & Wilkins, Holovis and MQA
• Benefit from state-of-the-art facilities, ranging from 3D multichannel sound rooms to a hemi-anechoic chamber
• Be inspired by experienced and supportive lecturers who are renowned in the field and whose research even featured on Blue Planet II
• Engage in your own cutting-edge research, with the chance to contribute to publications and international conferences
• Hear from top industry professionals through fascinating guest lectures and master classes

This MSc programme enables graduates with good first degrees in Electronic Engineering, Music Technology or similar subjects to develop the higher-level expertise they need to enter the specialist field of audio engineering. With a flexible part-time study option available, it also represents an excellent route for professionals already working within the sector to upgrade their skills and understanding.

At the forefront of industry developments

Audio engineering is a well-developed and far-reaching field encompassing subjects such as loudspeaker and microphone design, analogue and digital electronics, digital signal processing, acoustics, psychoacoustics, computer programing and beyond.

There is a widespread need for audio engineers in these fields and the skills you gain on the MSc will set you apart as a high-calibre, well-trained and forward-thinking professional.

The course is designed with a focus on innovation and critical thinking. When you graduate, you will be capable of working with – and shaping – the next generation of audio technology. You will also be ideally positioned to remain at the leading edge of audio engineering throughout your future career.

Expertise to inspire you

You will be taught by experienced, research-active lecturers who boast an international profile in audio engineering and will support you to reach your full potential. They include Dr Adam Hill and Jon Burton, who have extensive experience as live sound engineers, and Dr Bruce Wiggins, who has a particular specialism in ambisonic surround sound systems.

The team’s research findings have been published and presented at international conferences, referenced in British Standards, and assimilated into World Health Organization initiatives, not to mention being put into place at large-scale live events such as Glastonbury Festival and Pitchfork Music Festival. One underwater acoustics project was even spotlighted on the BBC’s Blue Planet II.

As an MSc student, you will engage with the cutting-edge research being undertaken by our experts. Our Entertainment Engineering group hosts the annual Sounds in Space research symposium, which brings leading spatial audio researchers to the University to demonstrate their latest work.‌

How you will learn

Our MSc programme has been developed in consultation with leading figures in the audio engineering industry. All teaching and learning exercises are focused on real-world applications. For some assignments, certain tasks require working with various individuals in the industry for guidance and mentorship.

Assessment involves a combination of coursework and examinations. Coursework entails individual and group assignments, all with a focus on real-world applications.