Acoustics and Music Technology (BSc) W380

Introducing BSc Acoustics and Music Technology

This challenging multidisciplinary programme supports you to design the music tools, spaces and software of tomorrow, developing your:

• scientific skills
• creative mindset

You will explore how modern technologies are driving a revolution in the way that sound is:

• created
• manipulated
• transmitted

Who the degree is aimed at

The programme is designed for students:

• with a strong background in maths and physics
• who are fascinated by the interplay of science, technology, and music

The world of modern acoustics and music technology needs graduates with:

• a high level of numeracy
• deep technical knowledge
• a curious and creative mindset
• the ability to work across multiple disciplines

What you will study

This programme emphasises excellence in subjects including:

• physics
• computer programming
• audio signal processing

These not only underpin our field but are also useful in many other numerate disciplines.

You will combine this learning with studies in:

• sound recording
• architectural acoustics
• architectural acoustics
• creative music technology
• sound design
• further options in music and beyond

What our students say

I enjoyed the international dynamic at the University, and the exciting approaches to sound. I felt in my element experimenting with all the different things sound and music can be.

• Kirsty Keatch, BMus (Hons) Music Technology graduate

How will I learn?

You will be taught through a mix of:

• lectures
• tutorials
• practical workshops

We use the latest teaching technology, helping you to develop your problem-solving skills and foster creative thinking.

From Year 3, you can specialise in the areas of acoustics and music technology that most interest you.

How will I be assessed?

You will be assessed through a mix of:

• continuous assessment
• project work
• presentations
• peer assessment
• exams

Practical and computing courses involve the creation and documentation of computer software for a range of exciting music technology applications.

Creative music technology and sound design courses include portfolio submissions.

All applicants are required to demonstrate a level of English language competency, regardless of their nationality or country of residence. These requirements are listed by programme.

This new programme builds on our considerable existing strengths in acoustics, audio and music technology.

You will develop a unique and marketable combination of creative-thinking, technical and mathematical skills.

Where graduates work

Our graduates play a prominent role in the acoustics, audio, and music technology industries.

Leading companies they go on to work for include:

• Arturia
• Arup
• AudioKinnetic
• the BBC
• Facebook
• Hann Tucker Associates
• LG Electronics
• Moog
• Native Instruments

Many also work for organisations involved in commercial acoustic design, audiology, music technology, and software engineering.

Forming start-ups

We have recently seen an exciting new stream of innovative start-up companies being formed by our graduates.

One of these, TwoBigEars, was recently acquired by Facebook to form the basis of a new online virtual reality platform.

Transferable skills

A wide range of employers recognise our graduates' skills in:

• physics
• mathematics
• software engineering
• general problem solving

These are sought after by sectors including:

• engineering
• manufacturing
• energy
• finance
• medicine
• the space industries