Audio Engineering

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.

Outstanding facilities

We have made a substantial investment in state-of-the-art facilities so that you can gain insights into the latest technology transforming the industry today.

You will have the opportunity to learn and conduct research in our hemi-anechoic chamber, two multi-channel sound rooms, a fully-equipped live event production space and a full suite of electronics labs.

A rich learning experience

Because we maintain close links with local, national and international industry, as well as the leading professional bodies, our teaching remains contemporary and relevant. We regularly invite representatives from industry to give guest lectures and masterclasses.

Our students also have the chance to hear from world-leading experts and expand their professional networks at the annual Reproduced Sound conference.

Your learning experience will be varied and vibrant. You will study as an individual but also have the chance to work as part of a group on integrated project work. This gives you insights into working within diverse teams to solve engineering problems. There is also plenty of opportunities, through independent study, to pursue projects which match your professional interests and career ambitions.

In 2022, leading loudspeaker company Meyer Sound partnered with the University of Derby to deliver online masterclasses and an in-person training course for our Entertainment Engineering students. As a student at Derby you'll have access to full-length seminars on topics such as acoustics, loudspeakers, audio networking, spatial sound and audio fundamentals, as well potential support with your research project.

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.

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.

You will require:

• An appropriate undergraduate degree in Engineering, Science or Music Technology (2:2 or above) or an equivalent qualification
• If English is not your first language, then you will need to hold IELTS 6.0 or above

This programme is suitable for UK, EU and international applicants.

2024/25 (August 2024 - July 2025)

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.

* UK full-time fees paid within one academic year are rounded down to the nearest £50 if applicable

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.

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

As a graduate of the MSc Audio Engineering, you will be ideally prepared to progress into rewarding careers within many fields of professional activity – or to advance an existing career if you are already employed.

You will find that high-calibre audio engineers are in demand in fields such as:

• Electroacoustic engineering (loudspeakers, power amplifiers and so on)
• Software engineering (digital signal processing, software development and so on)
• Sound reinforcement
• Acoustics
• Automotive engineering

Our teaching team can give you advice on relevant employment opportunities and you will receive full support from the University’s Careers and Employment Service, who can assist in areas such as job application and interview techniques.

Contact us

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.

† Additional information about your studies

January 2024 intake is only available for home students

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

• Use of resources (audio + electronics facilities, specialist software)
• Electronics toolkit
• £150 budget for dissertation research
• Registration fees + transportation (from Derby) for IOA Reproduced Sound Conference

Mandatory costs not included in your fees

• Accommodation + subsistence for IOA Reproduced Sound conference (if not online)

Optional costs not included in your fees

• Personal computer or tablet computer approx. £500

Other courses you might like

• Music Production MA
• Control and Instrumentation MSc