About this course
Learn to hear music in a new way, and discover how sound and vibration can affect us and the world around. This Acoustics with Music degree combines musical composition and critical analysis with acoustical engineering. Whether you sing opera, play guitar solos or make electronic dance music, we'll help you develop.
This degree provides a broad-based education in sound and technology as well as musical engineering, theory and performance. The modular nature of the course means you'll choose how you balance Acoustical Engineering and Music modules.
You'll use our extensive Music facilities, including:
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dedicated rehearsal rooms
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ensemble practice spaces
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electronic studios
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networked multimedia workstations
You'll study Acoustics at the Institute of Sound and Vibration Research, a leading centre for Acoustical Engineering. You'll use our world-class acoustic and engineering facilities, which include:
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anechoic and reverberation chambers
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an aeroacoustic wind tunnel
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a virtual acoustics laboratory
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a professional manufacturing centre
Each year you can take tuition to improve your performance as a soloist or accompanist, and enhance your public performing experience.
At our Turner Sims concert hall, you can watch professional musicians perform. We support the most extensive series of professional concerts and workshops of any UK university.
You can also take a Year in Employment to enhance your employability and give you vital experience.
Course locations
This course is based at Highfield and Boldrewood.
Awarding body
This qualification is awarded by the University of Southampton.
Download the programme specification
The programme specification sets out the learning outcomes of this course and details how the course is taught and assessed.
In light of COVID-19, we’ve made changes to some elements of course delivery for 2020-21. For details as to how this has changed delivery for this course, please view the Addendum to the Programme Specification PDF.
Entry requirements
A-levels
AAB including mathematics (minimum grade A), an additional science-related subject (minimum grade A) and music (minimum grade B)*. Grade 8 in music practical or demonstrated equivalent standard** is also required for applicants wishing to pursue a performance component in music.
A-levels additional information
Acceptable science-related subjects include chemistry, electronics, further mathematics and physics. Pass in the associated science Practical is required where applicable. Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking. * We can accept a pass in Grade 6 Music Theory where Music is not studied as a Level 3 qualification. We do not accept Music Technology in lieu of a Music Level 3 qualification (A level, BTEC etc). **Equivalence to grade 8 is ascertained via an audition. This can be done in person or by sending a video.We recognise Music practical and theory exams from ABRSM, Trinity, Rockschool and LCM.
A-levels with Extended Project Qualification
If you are taking an EPQ in addition to 3 A levels, you will receive the following offer in addition to the standard A-level offer: ABB including mathematics (minimum grade A), an additional science subject and music (minimum grade B)*, plus grade A in the EPQ. Grade 8 in music practical or demonstrated equivalent standard** is also required for applicants wishing to pursue a performance component in music.
A-levels contextual offer
ABB including mathematics (minimum grade A), an additional science-related subject and music*. Grade 8 in music practical or demonstrated equivalent standard** is also required for applicants wishing to pursue a performance component in music.
International Baccalaureate Diploma
Pass, with 34 points overall with 17 points at Higher Level, including 6 at Higher Level in Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches or 7 at Higher Level in Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation,
6 at Higher Level in Physics or Chemistry and
5 at Higher Level in music*.
International Baccalaureate Diploma additional information
*We can accept a pass in Grade 6 Music Theory where Music is not studied as a Level 3 qualification. We do not accept Music Technology in lieu of a Music Level 3 qualification (A level, BTEC etc).**Equivalence to grade 8 is ascertained via an audition. This can be done in person or by sending a video.We recognise Music practical and theory exams from ABRSM, Trinity, Rockschool and LCM.
International Baccalaureate contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
International Baccalaureate Career Programme (IBCP) statement
Offers will be made on the individual Diploma Course subject(s) and the career-related study qualification. The CP core will not form part of the offer. Where there is a subject pre-requisite(s), applicants will be required to study the subject(s) at Higher Level in the Diploma course subject and/or take a specified unit in the career-related study qualification. Applicants may also be asked to achieve a specific grade in those elements. Please see the University of Southampton International Baccalaureate Career-Related Programme (IBCP) Statement for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
BTEC
D in the BTEC Subsidiary Diploma plus A in A-level mathematics, A in an additional science-related A-level subject and a pass in Grade 6 Music Theory*. Grade 8 in music practical or demonstrated equivalent standard** is also required for applicants wishing to pursue a performance component in music.We do not accept the BTEC Extended Diploma.We do not accept the BTEC Diploma.Applicants with a BTEC Extended Diploma or the BTEC Diploma should apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics/Geophysics Foundation Year
BTEC additional information
Accepted science-related subjects include chemistry, electronics, further mathematics and physics. Pass in the associated science Practical is required where applicable. Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking. *We can accept a pass in Grade 6 Music Theory where Music is not studied as a Level 3 qualification. We do not accept Music Technology in lieu of a Music Level 3 qualification (A level, BTEC etc).**Equivalence to grade 8 is ascertained via an audition. This can be done in person or by sending a video.We recognise Music practical and theory exams from ABRSM, Trinity, Rockschool and LCM.
- Access to HE Diploma
- Irish Leaving Certificate
- Scottish Qualification offers
- Cambridge Pre-U
- Welsh Baccalaureate
- European Baccalaureate
Other requirements
UK students
International students
Other ways to qualify
GCSE requirements
Applicants must hold GCSE English language (or GCSE English) (minimum grade 4/C) and mathematics (minimum grade 4/C)
Non-academic entry requirements
There are no additional requirements
Got a question?
If you're not sure that you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course please contact our enquiries team; we're very happy to help.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.ukTel: +44(0)23 8059 5000
A-levels
AAB including mathematics (minimum grade A), physics (minimum grade A) with a pass in the physics Practical, and music (minimum grade B)*. Grade 8 in music practical or demonstrated equivalent standard** is also required for applicants wishing to pursue a performance component in music.
A-levels additional information
Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking.
* We can accept a pass in Grade 6 Music Theory where Music is not studied as a Level 3 qualification. We do not accept Music Technology in lieu of a Music Level 3 qualification (A level, BTEC etc).
**Equivalence to grade 8 is ascertained via an audition. This can be done in person or by sending a video.
We recognise Music practical and theory exams from ABRSM, Trinity, Rockschool and LCM.
A-levels with Extended Project Qualification
If you are taking an EPQ in addition to 3 A levels, you will receive the following offer in addition to the standard A-level offer:
ABB including mathematics (minimum grade A), physics (minimum grade B) with a pass in the physics Practical, and music (minimum grade B)* and grade A in the EPQ. Grade 8 in music practical or demonstrated equivalent standard** is also required for applicants wishing to pursue a performance component in music.
A-levels contextual offer
Students who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme, as follows:
ABB including mathematics (minimum grade A), physics (minimum grade B) with a pass in the physics Practical, and music (minimum grade B)*. Grade 8 in music practical or demonstrated equivalent standard** is also required for applicants wishing to pursue a performance component in music.
International Baccalaureate Diploma
Pass, with 34 points overall with 17 points at Higher Level, including 6 at Higher Level in mathematics, 6 at Higher Level in physics and 5 at Higher Level in music*. Grade 8 in music practical or demonstrated equivalent standard** is also required for applicants wishing to pursue a performance component in music.
International Baccalaureate Diploma additional information
*We can accept a pass in Grade 6 Music Theory where Music is not studied as a Level 3 qualification. We do not accept Music Technology in lieu of a Music Level 3 qualification (A level, BTEC etc).
**Equivalence to grade 8 is ascertained via an audition. This can be done in person or by sending a video.
We recognise Music practical and theory exams from ABRSM, Trinity, Rockschool and LCM.
International Baccalaureate Career Programme (IBCP) statement
Offers will be made on the individual Diploma Course subject(s) and the career-related study qualification. The CP core will not form part of the offer. Where there is a subject pre-requisite(s), applicants will be required to study the subject(s) at Higher Level in the Diploma course subject and/or take a specified unit in the career-related study qualification. Applicants may also be asked to achieve a specific grade in those elements.
Please see the University of Southampton International Baccalaureate Career-Related Programme (IBCP) Statement for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
BTEC
D in the BTEC Subsidiary Diploma plus A in A-level mathematics, A in A-level physics with a pass in the physics Practical and a pass in Grade 6 Music Theory*. Grade 8 in music practical or demonstrated equivalent standard** is also required for applicants wishing to pursue a performance component in music.
We do not accept the BTEC Extended Diploma.
We do not accept the BTEC Diploma.
Applicants with a BTEC Extended Diploma or the BTEC Diploma should apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics/Geophysics Foundation Year
BTEC additional information
*We can accept a pass in Grade 6 Music Theory where Music is not studied as a Level 3 qualification. We do not accept Music Technology in lieu of a Music Level 3 qualification (A level, BTEC etc).
**Equivalence to grade 8 is ascertained via an audition. This can be done in person or by sending a video.
We recognise Music practical and theory exams from ABRSM, Trinity, Rockschool and LCM.
- Access to HE Diploma
- Irish Leaving Certificate
- Scottish Qualification offers
- Cambridge Pre-U
- Welsh Baccalaureate
- European Baccalaureate
Other requirements
UK students
International students
Other ways to qualify
GCSE requirements
Applicants must hold GCSE English language (or GCSE English) (minimum grade 4/C) and mathematics (minimum grade 4/C)
Got a question?
If you're not sure that you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course please contact our enquiries team; we're very happy to help.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.ukTel: +44(0)23 8059 5000
Course structure
COVID-19: we've made some changes to the structure of the course for this academic year. Download the programme specification addendum in 'About this course' to learn more.
Compulsory modules will introduce acoustics and audio signal processing in the first 2 years. These provide a solid preparation for the final part of the degree, which includes an individual project.
You'll select from a range of music-related modules throughout the course. You can choose optional modules from both the Acoustical Engineering and Music programmes.
Year 1 overview
Compulsory modules will provide a background in acoustical engineering. You'll study the physics and mathematics of sound and acoustics.
Music modules look at:
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performance
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composition
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history
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critical analysis
You'll choose from optional modules, including:
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Dynamics
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Introduction to Music Technology
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Exploring Music I
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Electrical and Electronic Systems
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Fundamentals of Analysis
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Counterpoint and Harmony
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First Year Performance Tuition
From jazz theory to global hip-hop, you can explore the music of your choice. You can also take individual or group tuition, to help develop your performance skills.
Year 2 overview
You'll study further acoustics, sound and mathematics, and audio engineering technology.
Option modules include:
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System Design and Computing
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Jazz Theory
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Studio Techniques
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Conducting
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Arranging
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Music Therapy Fundamentals
Year 3 overview
You can focus on areas that interest you in both Acoustics or Music, through a wide selection of option modules. There are no compulsory modules this year, but you'll complete either a Research Project in Music or an Individual Project.
You'll choose from optional modules, including:
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Musical Instrument Acoustics
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Architectural and Building Acoustics
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Human Responses to Sound and Vibration
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Electroacoustics
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Commercial Composition
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Studio Techniques
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Orchestration
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Ensemble Performance
Want more detail? See all the modules in the course.
Modules
COVID-19: we've made some changes to our modules for this academic year. Download the programme specification addendum in 'About this course' to learn more.
For entry in Academic Year 2020-21
Year 1
Year 2
Year 3
You must study the following modules in year 1:
You must also choose from the following modules in year 1:
Learning and assessment
COVID-19: we've made some changes to our learning and assessment methods for this academic year. Download the programme specification addendum in 'About this course' to learn more.
The learning activities for this course include the following:
- lectures
- classes and tutorials
- coursework
- individual and group projects
- independent learning (studying on your own)
How you'll spend your course time:
Year 1
Year 2
Year 3
Study time
Your scheduled learning, teaching and independent study for year 1:
How we'll assess you
Your assessment breakdown
Year 1:
Academic support
You’ll be supported by a personal academic tutor and have access to a senior tutor.
Course leader
Keith Holland is the course leader.
Careers
You'll graduate with the skills to work in the acoustics, music and audio technology industries. You could choose to develop your musical performance abilities, enhanced by your knowledge of acoustics.
This degree also provides a foundation for further study at Masters or PhD level.
Typical roles that you will be qualified for include:
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acoustician
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studio producer or engineer
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performer
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music therapist
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composer
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sound engineer
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live sound engineer
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recording engineer
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acoustics and audio researcher
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acoustics consultant
Our recent graduates work for leading companies such as:
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Gillieron Scott Acoustic Design
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GP Acoustics
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Hoare Lea Acoustics
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Hunter Acoustics
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RBA Acoustics
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SLR Consulting
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Wolfson Microelectronics Plc
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WSP
The transferable skills you gain will also be vital in a range of other sectors.
We have helped some of our graduates create innovative start-up companies through the SET-squared partnership.
Careers services at Southampton
We are a top 20 UK university for employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2019). Our Careers and Employability Service will support you throughout your time as a student and for up to 5 years after graduation. This support includes:
work experience schemes
CV and interview skills and workshops
networking events
careers fairs attended by top employers
a wealth of volunteering opportunities
study abroad and summer school opportunities
We have a vibrant entrepreneurship culture and our dedicated start-up supporter, Futureworlds, is open to every student.
Fees, costs and funding
Tuition fees
Fees for a year's study:
- UK/EU students pay £9,250.
- International students pay £21,580.
What your fees pay for
Your tuition fees pay for the full cost of tuition and all examinations.
Find out how to:
Accommodation and living costs, such as travel and food, are not included in your tuition fees. Explore:
Bursaries, scholarships and other funding
If you're a UK or EU student and your household income is under £25,000 a year, you may be able to get a University of Southampton bursary to help with your living costs. Find out about bursaries and other funding we offer at Southampton.
If you're a care leaver or estranged from your parents, you may be able to get a specific bursary.
Get in touch for advice about student money matters.
Scholarships and grants
You may be able to get a scholarship or grant that's linked to your chosen subject area.
We award scholarships and grants for travel, academic excellence, or to students from underrepresented backgrounds.
Support during your course
The Student Services Centre offers support and advice on money to students. You may be able to access our Student Support fund and other sources of financial support during your course.
Funding for international students
Find out about funding you could get as an international student.
How to apply
When you apply use:
- UCAS course code: HW73
- UCAS institution code: S27
What happens after you apply?
We will assess your application on the strength of your:
- predicted grades
- academic achievements
- personal statement
- academic reference
We'll invite shortlisted applicants to an open day, which will include an interview. If you're shortlisted, we'll email you all the information you'll need to prepare.
We aim to respond to you within 2 to 6 weeks with a decision about your application.
Equality and diversity
We treat and select everyone in line with our Equality and Diversity Statement.
Got a question?
If you're not sure that you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course please contact our enquiries team; we're very happy to help.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.ukTel: +44(0)23 8059 5000