Nottingham Trent University

What you'll study

This programme combines technical foundations in acoustics and electronics with creative practice in recording, mixing and sound design. Teaching is project-led and practical, using industry-standard Digital Audio Workstations and studio equipment alongside modules that explain the theory behind signal flow, microphone techniques and audio processing.

• Year 1 / Foundations: introductory studies in sound theory and acoustics, basic studio practice and live sound setup, DAW workflow, critical listening, and collaborative production projects to build a practical portfolio.
• Year 2 / Development: intermediate modules in recording techniques for bands and solo artists, multitrack mixing, sound design for media, electronics for audio, and post-production workflows for film, TV and games. You will undertake larger studio projects and begin specialisms.
• Final Year / Honours Project: an extended individual or group project that demonstrates your chosen specialism (for example a commercial release, a post-production showreel, or a detailed research-and-design piece), supported by modules in professional practice, business skills and industry-ready portfolio development.
• Practical elements: regular studio sessions, live-sound rigs and on-location recording; critical seminars; sound-for-picture and immersive audio practice; and opportunities for short work placements or live briefs with external partners.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have a relevant level 3 qualification such as A‑levels, BTEC or an equivalent vocational diploma. Practical experience and evidence of recent audio work are important—applicants are normally asked to submit a short portfolio or showreel of recordings, mixes or production work and may be invited to an interview or audition.

Typical academic expectations include passes in English (GCSE or equivalent); international students must demonstrate English language proficiency through an approved qualification. Mature applicants with relevant experience are welcome and assessed on the strength of their portfolio and interview.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to a wide range of roles across the music, media and live events industries. Typical career paths include:

• Studio recording engineer, mix engineer or mastering engineer
• Music producer and composer/arranger for commercial release
• Live sound technician and FOH/monitor engineer for concerts and events
• Post-production sound editor, dialogue/mixing for film and television, and sound designer for games
• Audio technician, studio manager or product specialist with equipment manufacturers and retailers
• Freelance audio professional working across broadcast, podcasting, immersive audio and interactive media

The course emphasises employability through portfolio development, client-facing briefs and opportunities to build industry contacts in London’s music and media ecosystem.

Why study at Nottingham Trent University

The London campus offers a focused learning environment with industry-orientated facilities and staff who combine academic expertise with professional experience. Students work in professional-standard studios and live rooms, gain hands-on experience with contemporary DAWs and hardware, and are supported to develop a demonstrable portfolio.

Being based in London provides easy access to a dense network of recording studios, post-production houses, broadcasters and live venues for guest lectures, placements and networking. The programme also benefits from Nottingham Trent University's student support services, employability guidance and links across the university’s wider creative and technical courses to encourage interdisciplinary collaboration.