In the first year you’ll learn the measurements of sound and basic acoustics to understand how they affect sound production, transmission, and capture. You’ll spot potential problems and overcome them, as you become familiar with recording, navigating innovative technology and environmental challenges. We’ll give you a strong understanding of all major Digital Audio Workstation packages. You’ll use these to mix, process effects and create your own virtual instruments. Your technical knowledge will quickly reach a professional standard. You’ll explore the scientific study of how humans perceive different sounds. This knowledge will inspire you further as you build your own synthesizer. You’ll record projects in our dedicated studios and out on location, developing a range of essential skills. 

In the second year you’ll develop a critical ear. You’ll gain a deep understanding of microphones and sound signal routing using our Rednet enabled network. We’ll teach you about the music industry, including the legal and logistical requirements of digital distribution. You’ll spend hours in the studio as you mix and master your own tracks. Your creativity will be unleashed when you record a song in a day, producing a raw recording and then mixing it in a style of your choice. We’ll challenge you because we know you can do it. Your skills as an audio engineer will begin to secure you a reputation among your peers, as you prove yourself on event management projects. You’ll grow confident in liaising with artists and providing technical support as you live mix events. We’ll give your potential the platform to excel.     

 In the third year you’ll refine your studio mixing techniques, as well as your skills in manipulating and restoring audio. You’ll become confident in audio system and studio design. You’ll work with your developing client base and have the opportunity to work within our annual music festival. We’ll teach you about the evolution of music and audio technologies, from their historical origins to the present day. Your final major project empowers you to specialise and immerse yourself in your passion. You can focus on your theoretical knowledge and critical thinking by writing a dissertation, or you can develop software or hardware and even record an album. Using our accreditation links, you’ll also work on a live music production drawing on the expertise of our staff and industry partners. This is a chance to test your skills to an industry brief. Can you deliver to specification, deadline, and budget? When you graduate, you’ll know what area you want to work in. Plus, you’ll have the technical expertise, management skills and professional contacts to pave your path on the journey ahead.  

Your time at Herts will be an enriching experience. Industry professionals visit us throughout the year to share their experiences with our students. 

Work placement

Graduate with invaluable work experience alongside your degree and stand out from the crowd.  

This course offers you the opportunity to enhance your study and CV with a work placement sandwich year. It’s a chance to explore career possibilities, make valuable contacts and gain sought after professional skills.  

Our dedicated Careers and Employment team are here to help guide you through the process.

If you take up a work placement between your second and third year of study, at the University of Hertfordshire you’ll pay no tuition fee for this year. We’ll ask you to make your decision in your second year, so there is plenty of time to think about it. 

What's next for my career?

When you graduate, you can find work in many audio and sound related fields. You could work as an engineer for live location events or recording studios. You could specialise in mixing and mastering. Or perhaps you’re more interested in building hardware or software. You could even work in TV, radio, or music production. The possibilities are endless. Wherever your passion has guided you during your time here at Herts, you can feel confident that you’ll have the expertise to fulfil your dream. And let’s face it, who doesn’t want that?