University of York

What you'll study

This programme blends foundational electronic engineering topics with specialised modules in music and audio technology. In early years you study core engineering subjects such as mathematics for engineers, circuit analysis, analogue and digital electronics, signals and systems, and programming. As you progress you move into audio-specialist topics including digital signal processing for audio, acoustics and psychoacoustics, audio electronics, recording and production techniques, and software for sound (DSP implementation, plugins and real-time systems).

• Year 1–2 core topics: engineering maths, analogue circuits, digital electronics, microcontrollers and embedded programming (C/Python), signals and systems, introduction to acoustics and audio production, laboratory and practical skills.
• Mid-course specialisms: digital signal processing (filter design, spectral analysis), audio effects and synthesis, microphone and loudspeaker technology, real-time audio systems, FPGA and hardware implementation for audio, interfaces and sensors for musical interaction.
• Individual and group projects: project-based learning features team design briefs and an individual final-year project, allowing you to design and build hardware or software systems—examples include musical interfaces, low-latency audio devices, bespoke effects processors or research-oriented signal-processing systems.
• Professional skills: engineering practice, systems design, testing and verification, project management, and communication skills needed for industry or postgraduate study.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have strong qualifications in mathematics and science. Typical offers for UK A-level applicants include strong grades with A-level Mathematics (or Further Mathematics) and usually Physics or Electronics. International Baccalaureate applicants are normally expected to have an overall diploma score with higher-level mathematics. The Department accepts a range of equivalent qualifications from other systems, and recognises practical and technical experience. Admissions may also consider an applicant's personal statement and reference.

There is no audition or portfolio requirement specific to this programme, but demonstrable experience or interest in electronics, programming or music technology (projects, recordings, workshops, or informal study) strengthens an application.

Career prospects

Graduates combine electronic engineering skills with applied audio knowledge and are well placed for careers across audio, music and broader engineering sectors. Typical roles include:

• Audio signal-processing engineer or DSP developer
• Embedded systems or firmware engineer for audio devices
• Audio systems designer, studio or broadcast engineer
• Acoustics consultant or loudspeaker/microphone design engineer
• Games audio programmer, plugin developer or interactive media technologist
• Research and development roles in industry or progression to postgraduate study (MSc/PhD) in signal processing, acoustics or electronic engineering

Graduates also move into adjacent fields such as consumer electronics, telecommunications, IoT hardware, and technology start-ups where skills in hardware, software and systems integration are valued.

Why study at University of York

The University of York offers an interdisciplinary environment where engineering study can be combined with music and creative practice. Teaching emphasises hands-on laboratory work, project-based learning and small-group supervision for final projects. Students benefit from well-equipped electronics and audio laboratories, access to recording and production facilities, and opportunities to collaborate with music, computing and design colleagues across the campus.

The department supports industrial engagement, guest lectures and project briefs that reflect current industry practice, helping students build practical portfolios and employer-relevant skills. The course is designed to develop both the theoretical knowledge and the applied engineering competencies needed to design and deploy modern music-technology systems.