Course summary
Turn your passion for sound into a professional future. Explore the art, science, and business of sound in this dynamic Higher National programme. Designed for aspiring producers, engineers, and music innovators, the HNC and HND in Sound Engineering blend technical mastery with creative exploration, preparing you for a diverse career in the ever-evolving world of music and audio. Learn in professional studios with industry-standard equipment, work on real-world projects with creative peers, develop both technical expertise and creative confidence, and build a portfolio that reflects your unique sound and vision. Step into the mix — and shape the future of sound.
Modules
Contextual Knowledge – Music in a Changing World Discover how music and sound shape — and are shaped by — society, technology, and culture. From the rise of AI-driven creativity and the rebirth of vinyl, to global political movements and digital economies, you’ll explore how context fuels innovation in sound. You will study: Music’s social, political, and technological influences Global genres and the evolution of music production The impact of AI in sound design and composition Industry shifts: from DIY production to global distribution Creative Project Development Bring your sound ideas to life through hands-on creative projects. You’ll research, plan, and produce your own original work — whether it’s a live performance, an EP, a soundtrack, or a collaborative session. Learn to: Develop project briefs and creative strategies Analyse markets, audiences, and trends Generate innovative ideas using modern and vintage techniques Reflect critically and adapt creatively Technical Mastery Step inside the studio — physically and digitally. From microphones and mixing desks to DAWs and mastering chains, you’ll build professional-level technical fluency through practical sessions and industry-standard workflows. Skills include: Recording and mixing with cutting-edge and vintage tech Mastering for multiple formats Studio and live sound setup Acoustic theory and sound design MIDI programming and digital audio technology Applied Sound Principles and Synthesis Understand how sound behaves, interacts, and inspires. Learn the physics of sound, human perception, and how to sculpt sonic textures using synthesis, modulation, and digital tools. You’ll explore: Waveforms, harmonics, and frequency theory Subtractive synthesis and signal flow Sound propagation and psychoacoustics Programming creative synth patches and soundscapes Professional Practice Prepare for a thriving career in the modern music industry. You’ll explore industry structures, freelancing, branding, ethics, and sustainability, gaining the professional awareness needed to build a lasting creative career. Topics include: Freelance business skills and networking Music rights, copyright, and licensing Health, safety, and well-being for sound professionals Sustainable practices and ethical production Equality, diversity, and accessibility in the arts Communication & Collaboration Develop your professional voice. You’ll learn how to communicate, collaborate, and promote your work across platforms — from live gigs and podcasts to music videos and social media campaigns. You’ll practice: Communicating ideas to clients and audiences Producing promotional content and press materials Pitching and presenting projects Engaging audiences through storytelling and branding
Assessment method
Your work will be continually assessed throughout the course. The assessment will depend upon the particular module being studied. Typical assessment methods include assignments, developing portfolios, examinations and presentations. Please refer to the Course Specification for information on assessment for this particular course.
How to apply
14Jan
This is the deadline for applications to be completed and sent for this course. If the university or college still has places available you can apply after this date, but your application is not guaranteed to be considered.
Application codes
- Course code:
- SOUD
- Institution code:
- S23
- Campus name:
- Shrewsbury College
- Campus code:
- -
Points of entry
The following entry points are available for this course:
- Year 1
Entry requirements
Qualification requirements
- a BTEC Level 3 qualification in Sound Engineering - a GCE Advanced Level profile that demonstrates strong performance in a relevant subject or adequate performance in more than one GCE subject. This profile is likely to be supported by GCSE grades at 9 to 4 or A* to C (or equivalent) in subjects such as maths and English - other related Level 3 qualifications - an Access to Higher Education Diploma from an approved further education institution relevant work experience
Student Outcomes
Operated by the Office for Students
There is no data available for this course. For further information visit the Discover Uni website.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
| England | £7425 | Year 1 |
| Northern Ireland | £7425 | Year 1 |
| Scotland | £7425 | Year 1 |
| Wales | £7425 | Year 1 |
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
No additional fees or cost information has been supplied for this course, please contact the provider directly.
Provider information
Shrewsbury College
London Road
Shrewsbury
Shropshire
SY2 6PR