Course summary

Do you dream of engineering the future of sound? Our BSc (Hons) Sound Engineering course is designed to immerse you in the cutting-edge world of audio technology and production, equipping you with the skills to pursue careers in live sound, acoustics, audio hardware and software development, and studio production. Delivered in collaboration with Royal Birmingham Conservatoire (RBC), this course blends technical expertise, creative flair, and hands-on experience to prepare you for a dynamic career in the world of sound engineering. The degree offers a comprehensive curriculum to develop your skills across several audio disciplines and employment sectors. You will explore the principles of acoustics, live sound, broadcast audio, studio recording, immersive technologies and software development. Alongside practical experience, you will engage with advanced topics, embracing embedded audio systems, machine learning in audio, and multi-channel sound design - positioning you at the forefront of the emerging technologies shaping the audio industry. Our facilities are purpose-built for innovation and hands-on learning, from world-leading state-of-the-art recording studios at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire to the immersive SoundLab® in STEAMhouse. You will use industry-standard tools such as Logic, Pro Tools, MATLAB, Python, and C++. You will study on state-of-the-art Solid State Logic (SSL) recording consoles, run live sound sessions with industry-standard PA, and utilise our vast array of microphones from Neumann, Brauner and AKG. Our industry-aligned modules have been designed and finessed through over 25 years of delivery within the field. You will gain invaluable experience and networking opportunities through our Industrial Mentors forum and annual Innovation Fest, connecting you with leading employers and excellent job prospects. Whether designing immersive soundscapes or audio systems, delivering live events, or mastering production techniques, this course equips you with the skills to excel in the evolving field of sound engineering. Join us to turn your passion for sound, music or science into a dynamic and fulfilling career in one of the most innovative and exciting industries today. Professional Placement Year This course offers an optional professional placement year. This allows you to spend a whole year with an employer, following successful completion of your second year, and is a great way to find out more about your chosen career. Some students even return to the same employers after completing their studies. If you choose to pursue a placement year, you will need to find a suitable placement to complement your chosen area of study. You will be able to draw on the University’s extensive network of local, regional, and national employers, and the support of our Careers teams. If you are able to secure a placement, you can request to be transferred to the placement version of the course. Please note that fees are payable during your placement year, equivalent to 20% of the total full-time course fee for that year.