Nottingham Trent University

What you'll study

This programme combines practical studio practice, creative composition and professional contextual studies. You will learn recording techniques, digital audio workstation (DAW) workflow, mixing and mastering, signal processing, synthesis and sound design. Modules typically cover microphone technique, multitrack recording, advanced mixing, post-production for picture, live sound reinforcement and studio management.

Teaching emphasises project-based learning: you will complete collaborative recordings, produce original tracks, create sound for media and develop a professional portfolio. As the course progresses you will undertake advanced production projects and a final major project or portfolio that demonstrates your technical skills, creative direction and industry awareness.

Core study areas include:

• Music technology and DAW workflow (editing, arrangement, automation)
• Recording methods for bands, solo artists and acoustic sources
• Mixing and mastering principles and practice
• Sound design, synthesis and sample manipulation
• Live audio and FOH/monitor techniques
• Music business, publishing, licensing and career development
• Audio for picture and post-production processes
• Collaborative projects and professional practice (including live events and client briefs)

Course structure

The programme is studio-centred and balances workshops, practical sessions, seminars and project supervision. You will work in small groups on real-world briefs, have access to industry-standard kit and receive one-to-one feedback for your projects. Optional modules or electives allow you to tailor your study towards areas such as electronic music production, scoring for media or entrepreneurial activity.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have completed Level 3 qualifications or an equivalent qualification appropriate to higher education. Typical applicants hold a combination of qualifications such as A-levels, BTEC or a recognised vocational music qualification. Mature applicants with relevant practical experience in music or audio are considered.

All applicants are normally required to submit a portfolio or recordings that demonstrate musical and technical potential, and may be invited to an interview or audition (which can often be conducted remotely). Those whose first language is not English will need to meet the university's English language requirements.

Other desirable attributes include practical experience using a DAW, basic musical literacy, and evidence of collaborative or project work in music or audio.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to work across the music and audio industries. Common career paths include roles as record producers, mix engineers, studio engineers, sound designers, audio editors for film and TV, live sound engineers, session producers and studio managers. Many graduates establish freelance careers, launch independent labels, work in music publishing and sync or progress to specialist postgraduate study in areas such as audio technology, composition or sound design.

The course aims to develop a professional portfolio and industry-aware practice to help you build client relationships, secure placements, and operate as a self-employed music professional or a member of a production team.

Why study at Nottingham Trent University

Studying this programme at Nottingham Trent University (London) places you in a city-centre learning environment with direct links to the creative industries. The course delivers sustained studio time on industry-standard hardware and software, supported by technicians and staff with professional experience in recording and production.

The university emphasises employability and industry engagement, offering guest lectures, live project briefs and opportunities to collaborate with performers and media students. You will also have access to student support services, enterprise and careers teams to help develop business skills, live showcases and placement opportunities to make professional contacts before you graduate.