If you’re a professional acoustician, you can top up your existing qualifications to achieve a highly regarded masters degree – all by distance learning. You'll need to have studied the IOA Diploma in Acoustics to study this MSc top-up.
- Study full-time or part-time at a leading centre with over 30 years’ experience of delivering acoustics courses
- Boost your career prospects by gaining a recognised masters degree which will set you apart within the profession
- Build on your basic acoustics knowledge and gain the high-level skills to review different methods of noise assessment and control
- Adopt interdisciplinary approaches to solving acoustic problems and draw on real-world case studies
- Undertake work-based projects which are tailored to your current role and the needs of your employer
- Enjoy all the benefits and convenience of distance learning, fitting in your studies around your work and home life
Build on your experience
This course offers a convenient fast-track route to a masters degree for professionals who already hold the Institute of Acoustics (IOA) Diploma in Acoustics and Noise Control.
You will enter the MSc at the masters stage, so your studies will centre on a research-based investigation – either practical or desktop-based – culminating in a thesis on an acoustics topic of your choice.
Throughout this independent study, you’ll be supervised and supported by an academic advisor.
Meaningful and relevant research
If – like most of our students – you are already employed in the acoustics field, the skills and knowledge you gain on the course will be directly relevant to your day-to-day work.
You can choose to undertake a work-based study which is of benefit to both you and your organisation. We will liaise with you and your employer to ensure that your study meets the right academic criteria for an MSc award.
If you are not currently employed in a noise-related field, we can provide support regarding the selection and development of a project.
An expert team to support you
Derby is currently the largest centre in the Midlands for the IOA Diploma, and we have a strong reputation for delivering high-quality acoustics courses. You’ll benefit from the support of our friendly and approachable academic staff including the programme leader who is an active member of the Institute of Acoustics. You’ll also enjoy guest lectures by key practitioners.
Flexibility and convenience
With distance learning you can fit your MSc studies around your work and personal commitments. You can complete the course full-time over a year or part-time over two years.
We provide high-quality online learning materials, recorded presentations by academic staff, online tutorials and online classroom sessions where you can share your views and experiences.
Please note that our modules are subject to change - we review the content of our courses regularly, making changes where necessary to improve your experience and graduate prospects.
You'll study by distance learning, and all materials are accessed through our Blackboard facility. You'll also be supported by online tutorials, online classrooms, and online presentations.
Assessment
You’ll be assessed entirely through coursework assignments. There are no examinations.
You’ll be required to hold an undergraduate degree in a science or relevant discipline. If you do not have the IOA diploma in Acoustics when applying for the MSc it is essential that you contact the programme leader to discuss.
International students should have an undergraduate degree, postgraduate qualification in a science or relevant discipline, or an international equivalent. If English is not your first language, you will need to hold IELTS 6.0 or above. International students can only study this course remotely and must have completed or be in the process of completing the IOA Diploma in Acoustics and Noise Control or equivalent. Please note that the IOA diploma at the University of Derby is a part-time course delivered on Campus and is therefore unavailable to International Students.
2024/25 (August 2024 - July 2025)
| Type | Full-time | Part-time |
|---|
| UK | £3,000 for 60 credit Independent Project | £1,000 per 20 credits |
| International | £3,115 for 60 credit Independent Project | N/A |
Please note fees normally increase in line with inflation and the University's strategic approach to fees, which is reviewed on an annual basis. The total fee you pay may therefore increase after one year of study.
Additional fee information
Applicants who already have the Institute of Acoustics Diploma or an equivalent qualification will enter at the Masters stage and only complete the project module (60 credits).
Additional costs and optional extras
About postgraduate awards
Please note at postgraduate level, you’ll need to gain the following number of credits in total to obtain the respective awards. If you have any questions please contact us.
| Award | Credits |
|---|
| Postgraduate Certificate | 60 Credits |
| Postgraduate Diploma | 120 Credits |
| MA or MSc | 180 Credits |
This means you will gain 180 credits in total to complete the full MA or MSc. If you are studying part time you will normally complete your studies over two or three years, depending on the course structure.
Funding your studies
Find out more about fees, postgraduate loans and support you may be entitled to.
Find out about funding your studiesFind out about funding your studies
Alumni discount for Derby graduates
We offer a discount on postgraduate course fees for all Derby alumni.
Find out about the Alumni discountFind out about the Alumni discount
How to apply
Please look at our application deadlines before you apply.
Gaining the MSc will enhance your career and promotion prospects, paving the way to more senior roles in industry, consultancy, local authorities and statutory bodies.
It will help you continue your professional development, bring you up to date with the challenges facing acousticians today and give you insights into latest methods of assessment and control.
You’ll also develop valuable research, critical thinking and analytical skills which will serve you well as you advance your career.
If you’d like to pursue further academic research, the MSc is also an excellent platform for studying at PhD level.
If you need any more information from us, eg on courses, accommodation, applying, car parking, fees or funding, please contact us and we will do everything we can to help you.
Contact us Contact us January 2024 intake is only available for home students (distance learners)
Download programme specification
Teaching hours
Like most universities, we operate extended teaching hours at the University of Derby, so contact time with your lecturers and tutors could be anytime between 9am and 9pm. Your timetable will usually be available on the website 24 hours after enrolment on to your course.
Additional costs and optional extras
We’re committed to providing you with an outstanding learning experience. Our expert teaching, excellent facilities and great employability prepare you for your future career. As part of our commitment to you we aim to keep any additional study costs to a minimum. However, there are occasions where students may incur some additional costs.
The information provided on this page is correct at the time of publication but course content, costs and other individual course details do change from time to time and are updated as often as possible, so please do check these pages again when making your final decision to apply for a course. Any updated course details will also be confirmed to you at application, enrolment and in your offer letter.
Included in your fees
- Some essential educational software packages will be provided free
- Use of resources such as computer rooms, workshops and laboratories
- £150 maximum allowance for master's project
Mandatory costs not included in your fees
- Additional expenses for master's project, approximately £50
- Printing, approximately £80
Optional costs not included in your fees
- Personal computer or tablet computer approx. £500
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