Keele University

What you'll study

The degree blends fundamental computer science topics with applied music production and sound technology. In the early stage you study programming, algorithms, data structures, computer systems and databases alongside music theory, audio technology basics, studio practice and digital audio workstations (DAWs). Later years develop advanced modules such as digital signal processing for audio, software engineering, machine learning, networks and security together with advanced mixing and mastering, synthesis, sound design, spatial audio, acoustics and composition for media.

Teaching methods typically include lectures, laboratory programming and studio sessions, practical workshops, group projects and individual coursework. You will complete substantial practical projects that may combine software and audio — for example creating audio plugins, interactive music systems, game audio tools or algorithmic composition systems — and a final-year individual project that showcases your chosen specialism.

• Core computer science topics: programming (Python, C/C++ or similar), algorithms, operating systems, databases, software engineering and machine learning.
• Music production topics: studio recording techniques, mixing and mastering, DAW workflow (e.g. Pro Tools, Ableton Live), synthesis, sound design, MIDI and sequencing, and acoustics.
• Applied modules: digital signal processing for audio, audio programming, interactive systems, music information retrieval, and multimodal media projects.
• Practical learning: hands-on studio practice, production portfolios, collaborative projects with composers and developers, and an independent final project.

Entry requirements

Entry is normally via standard UK qualifications (A-levels, BTEC or equivalent) or international equivalents. Applicants are generally expected to have strong numeracy and evidence of relevant practical experience; Mathematics or a computing-related subject at A-level (or equivalent) is commonly required or recommended. For the music production element, applicants should demonstrate practical experience or aptitude in music and audio — this can be through a short portfolio, recorded tracks, a production reel, or details of practical coursework and projects.

Typical offers are competitive and based on a combination of academic grades and the applicant's demonstrated ability in both the technical and musical elements. GCSE passes (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics are normally required. Applicants whose first language is not English will need to meet the university's English language requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates are well placed for roles that require both computing and audio skills. Common career paths include software developer or engineer roles in audio and music technology companies, audio DSP engineer, sound designer, music technologist, studio or live sound engineer, and game audio developer. Graduates also move into roles in multimedia and broadcast, product management in music tech startups, research and postgraduate study in areas such as music informatics, machine learning for audio, and human–computer interaction.

The mix of practical production experience and solid computer science training also supports entrepreneurial careers — for example launching music apps, plugin development, freelance production and consultancy — and roles in related creative industries where technical and artistic fluency is an asset.

Why study at Keele University

Keele offers a campus-based learning environment with access to both computing facilities and music production studios, enabling seamless collaboration between technical and creative work. The university emphasises small-group teaching and staff supervision for project work, with opportunities to work on cross-disciplinary projects that bring together students from computing, digital media and music.

Keele's academic staff include researchers and practitioners working in areas relevant to music technology, audio engineering and computer science, providing opportunities to link study with current research themes. Students benefit from practical studio facilities equipped with industry-standard DAWs and studio hardware alongside computing labs for software development and signal processing work, plus support from careers and employability services to develop industry contacts and placements.