Nottingham Trent University

What you'll study

This programme combines core engineering principles with creative audio production. You will learn microphone techniques, multitrack recording, mixing and mastering, digital audio workstation (DAW) workflows, signal processing, and acoustics. Modules typically cover:

• Recording and Production: studio workflow, microphone selection and placement, session management, and working with musicians and producers.
• Mixing and Mastering: balancing, EQ and dynamics processing, spatial effects, loudness standards and preparing deliverables for streaming, broadcast and physical formats.
• Live Sound and Touring Practice: front-of-house and monitor mixing, PA system design, stage management and health & safety for live events.
• Audio Post-Production: dialogue editing, sound design, Foley, ADR, and mixing for film, television and games including surround and immersive formats.
• Acoustics and Signal Flow: fundamentals of sound propagation, room treatment, measurement techniques and troubleshooting signal chains.
• Music Technology and Programming: MIDI, synthesis, sampling, plugin use, and basic scripting for audio workflows and interactive media.
• Professional Practice and Industry Projects: project management, contracts and copyright, freelance business skills, and collaborative assignments with external partners.
• Final Major Project/Portfolio: an independent production project demonstrating technical and creative competence in an area of specialism such as studio album production, live recording, or audio post for media.

Teaching emphasises practical sessions in industry-standard studios and live rigs, supported by seminars on theory and small-group tutorials. Assessment mixes practical projects, recorded portfolios, written reports and presentations.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have completed secondary education to a level equivalent to UK A-levels or vocational qualifications. Typical entrants hold A-levels, BTEC Extended Diplomas, T-levels, or an Access to Higher Education qualification in a related subject, with evidence of practical music or technical experience preferred. International applicants will need to demonstrate English language proficiency through an approved test or qualification.

Applicants are expected to submit a personal statement outlining relevant experience and ambitions; a portfolio or samples of recorded work and a short CV are often requested. Interviews or auditions (in person or online) may be used to assess practical skills, communication and suitability for collaborative studio work. Mature applicants with relevant industry experience are encouraged to apply.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of technical and creative roles across music, media and live events. Common career paths include:

• Studio engineer / record producer
• Live sound engineer (front-of-house, monitor engineer)
• Audio post-production editor and re-recording mixer for film, TV and games
• Broadcast audio technician and radio production
• Sound designer for games, apps and immersive media
• Freelance audio technician, studio owner or self-employed producer
• Technical roles in AV hire, event production, and venue sound departments

Many graduates work freelance, join studios or production companies, or progress to specialist postgraduate study in audio, acoustics or related creative technologies. The course aims to build a professional portfolio and the industry contacts required to enter the audio sector.

Why study at Nottingham Trent University

Nottingham Trent University offers practical, industry-focused audio training supported by modern, professionally equipped studios, control rooms and live-sound rigs. Teaching staff include experienced practitioners and technicians who bring current industry workflows into the curriculum, and students benefit from guest lectures, masterclasses and project briefs with external partners.

The university’s emphasis on employability provides opportunities for work placements, collaborative projects and live events that develop professional networks. Nottingham’s vibrant cultural and music scene also gives students access to venues, festivals and freelance work while studying. The course encourages creative entrepreneurship and portfolio development to support graduates as they launch careers in the audio industry.