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:
-
dedicated rehearsal rooms
-
ensemble practice spaces
-
electronic studios
-
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
-
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.
Entry requirements
For Academic year 202223
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
We are committed to ensuring that all applicants 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 an applicant'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, as follows:
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 without additional A-levels
We do not accept the BTEC Diploma without additional A-levels
Applicants with a BTEC Extended Diploma or the BTEC Diploma can 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
Applicants with an Access to HE Diploma should apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics/Geophysics Foundation Year
Access to HE additional information
There are no additional requirements
Irish Leaving Certificate
Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2017)
H1 H2 H2 H2 H2 H2 including mathematics at H1, either chemistry or physics and music*. Grade 8 in music practical or demonstrated equivalent standard** is also required for applicants wishing to pursue a performance component in music.
Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2016)
A1 A2 A2 A2 A2 A2 including mathematics, physics and music*. Grade 8 in music practical or demonstrated equivalent standard** is also required for applicants wishing to pursue a performance component in music.
Irish certificate 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.
Scottish Qualification
Offers will be based on exams being taken at the end of S6. Subjects taken and qualifications achieved in S5 will be reviewed. Careful consideration will be given to an individual’s academic achievement, taking in to account the context and circumstances of their pre-university education.
Please see the University of Southampton’s Curriculum for Excellence Scotland Statement (PDF) for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
Cambridge Pre-U
D3 D3 M2 in three Principal subjects including mathematics (minimum grade D3), physics (minimum grade D3) and music (minimum grade M2) *. Grade 8 in music practical or demonstrated equivalent standard** is also required for applicants wishing to pursue a performance component in music.
Cambridge Pre-U 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.
Welsh Baccalaureate
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
or
AA from two A levels including mathematics and an additional science-related subject and B from the Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate Skills Challenge Certificate 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.
Welsh Baccalaureate 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.
Welsh 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.
European Baccalaureate
80% overall including grade 8.5/10 in mathematics (level 5 or Advanced), grade 8.5/10 in physics and grade 8 in music*. Grade 8 in music practical or demonstrated equivalent standard** is also required for applicants wishing to pursue a performance component in music.
*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.
Other requirements
GCSE requirements
Applicants must hold GCSE English language (or GCSE English) (minimum grade 4/C) and mathematics (minimum grade 4/C)
Find the equivalent international qualifications for our entry requirements.
English language requirements
If English isn't your first language, you'll need to complete an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) to demonstrate your competence in English. You'll need all of the following scores as a minimum:
IELTS score requirements
- overall score
- 6.5
- reading
- 5.5
- writing
- 5.5
- speaking
- 5.5
- listening
- 5.5
We accept other English language tests. Find out which English language tests we accept.
You might meet our criteria in other ways if you do not have the qualifications we need. Find out more about:
-
our Access to Southampton scheme for students living permanently in the UK (including residential summer school, application support and scholarship)
-
skills you might have gained through work or other life experiences (otherwise known as recognition of prior learning)
Find out more about our Admissions Policy.
For Academic year 202122
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
We are committed to ensuring that all applicants 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 an applicant'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, as follows:
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 without additional A-levels
We do not accept the BTEC Diploma without additional A-levels
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
Applicants with an Access to HE Diploma should apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics/Geophysics Foundation Year
Access to HE additional information
There are no additional requirements
Irish Leaving Certificate
Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2017)
H1 H2 H2 H2 H2 H2 including mathematics at H1, either chemistry or physics and music*. Grade 8 in music practical or demonstrated equivalent standard** is also required for applicants wishing to pursue a performance component in music.
Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2016)
A1 A2 A2 A2 A2 A2 including mathematics, physics and music*. Grade 8 in music practical or demonstrated equivalent standard** is also required for applicants wishing to pursue a performance component in music.
Irish certificate 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.
Scottish Qualification
Offers will be based on exams being taken at the end of S6. Subjects taken and qualifications achieved in S5 will be reviewed. Careful consideration will be given to an individual’s academic achievement, taking in to account the context and circumstances of their pre-university education.
Please see the University of Southampton’s Curriculum for Excellence Scotland Statement (PDF) for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
Cambridge Pre-U
D3 D3 M2 in three Principal subjects including mathematics (minimum grade D3), physics (minimum grade D3) and music (minimum grade M2) *. Grade 8 in music practical or demonstrated equivalent standard** is also required for applicants wishing to pursue a performance component in music.
Cambridge Pre-U 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.
Welsh Baccalaureate
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
or
AA from two A levels including mathematics and an additional science-related subject and B from the Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate Skills Challenge Certificate 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.
Welsh Baccalaureate 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.
Welsh 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.
European Baccalaureate
80% overall including grade 8.5/10 in mathematics (level 5 or Advanced), grade 8.5/10 in physics and grade 8 in music*. Grade 8 in music practical or demonstrated equivalent standard** is also required for applicants wishing to pursue a performance component in music.
*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.
Other requirements
GCSE requirements
Applicants must hold GCSE English language (or GCSE English) (minimum grade 4/C) and mathematics (minimum grade 4/C)
Find the equivalent international qualifications for our entry requirements.
English language requirements
If English isn't your first language, you'll need to complete an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) to demonstrate your competence in English. You'll need all of the following scores as a minimum:
IELTS score requirements
- overall score
- 6.5
- reading
- 5.5
- writing
- 5.5
- speaking
- 5.5
- listening
- 5.5
We accept other English language tests. Find out which English language tests we accept.
You might meet our criteria in other ways if you do not have the qualifications we need. Find out more about:
-
our Access to Southampton scheme for students living permanently in the UK (including residential summer school, application support and scholarship)
-
skills you might have gained through work or other life experiences (otherwise known as recognition of prior learning)
Find out more about our Admissions Policy.
Got a question?
Please contact our enquiries team if you're not sure that you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +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
-
composition
-
history
-
critical analysis
You'll choose from optional modules, including:
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Dynamics
-
Introduction to Music Technology
-
Exploring Music I
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Electrical and Electronic Systems
-
Fundamentals of Analysis
-
Counterpoint and Harmony
-
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:
-
System Design and Computing
-
Jazz Theory
-
Studio Techniques
-
Conducting
-
Arranging
-
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:
-
Musical Instrument Acoustics
-
Architectural and Building Acoustics
-
Human Responses to Sound and Vibration
-
Electroacoustics
-
Commercial Composition
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Studio Techniques
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Orchestration
-
Ensemble Performance
Want more detail? See all the modules in the course.
Modules
For entry in Academic Year 2021-22
Year 1 modules
You must study the following modules in year 1:
As an Acoustical Engineer you will need to be able to: 1. Understand the physics of sound and vibration 2. Understand the effects sound and vibration have on people 3. Design systems that control sound and/or vibration 4. Design systems that use sound...
This course develops your skills in design and computing with practical hands-on engineering to enable you to design, build and test artefacts relevant to your discipline. From the design component of the module you will be introduced to modern comput...
This module comprises the dynamics components of the Mechanics, Structures and Materials module (FEEG1002) and is specifically for students on the Acoustics with Music joint honours degree programme. The fundamental principles of dynamics covered here pro...
Offering a broad overview of European music in the Renaissance and Baroque periods, this module will also allow you to develop your academic writing skills. Lectures introduce styles and genres of the period, including the polyphonic Mass, the sonata, the...
This course lays the mathematical foundation for all engineering degrees. Its structure allows students with different levels of previous knowledge to work at their own pace. Pre-requisite for MATH2048 One of the pre-requisites for MATH3081 and MATH...
You must also choose from the following modules in year 1:
Composition Fundamentals will introduce you to a range of compositional techniques and principles. We will consider different ways of creating musical ideas and different approaches to structuring, varying and developing musical ideas. In particular, we w...
Reinforcing and developing the skills developed in MUSI1002 Antique Music Roadshow 1: Materials of Music History c.1500-1750, this module aims to introduce you to some of the major musical forms, techniques and styles cultivated between 1750 and 1900. Dur...
This module explores the history of key twentieth and twenty-first musical styles and practices including jazz, popular and art musics. Its scope is global, with the aim of "provincialising" European and North American experiences. In addition the module ...
This module introduces music performance skills. You undertake individual tuition in your chosen performance specialism* (8 hours of lessons) along with a variety of workshops exploring topics from across the performance spectrum. With the help of y...
Year 2 modules
You must study the following modules in year 2:
This module builds on the knowledge and understanding of sound fields and their generation and propagation that was built up in ISVR1032 Acoustics I. Those fundamental concepts are explored in greater depth to allow them to be applied to a wide variety of...
Acoustical engineers are required to demonstrate knowledge of the basic methods for acquisition, analysis, processing and reproduction of audio data and audio material. They must be familiar with the theoretical fundamentals of these techniques and be cap...
The module aims to teach mathematical methods relevant for engineering. The first part is about differential equations and how solve them, from ordinary differential equations to partial differential equations. The second part is about either vector calcu...
You must also choose from the following modules in year 2:
This module explores important historical and contemporary techniques and approaches to composition to give you a range of ways of thinking about creating, varying, transforming and organising musical materials. We will look at examples of compositional i...
This module covers basic gestures used in duple, triple, compound, mixed and asymmetric metres; cueing of players and singers, and introducing expressive gestures for dynamics, phrasing etc.; basic approaches to rehearsal and score-marking technique.
Practicing Mechanical and Acoustical Engineers require a working knowledge of aspects of electronics, electrical machines and control systems, as these elements are regularly encountered, for example, when instrumenting mechanical/acoustic structures with...
This module provides students with an introduction to management, accounting and law applicable to the operations of an engineering-based organisation. Emphasis is placed upon introducing managerial knowledge and skills required to apply effective managem...
In this module students prepare two programmes, lasting 20 to 25 minutes, of instrumental, vocal, or mixed-ensemble music of their own choice, which is coached regularly by members of staff. Entry to this course, which extends over a year, is subject to ...
This module aims to develop critical listening skills and an awareness of music as a social phenomenon. The module is open to students from across the humanities and beyond, and students do not require music specific skills, such as score reading or analy...
Hip-hop is one of the most ubiquitous, lucrative and popular musics in the world. Although it emerged in the South Bronx (New York City) in the 1970s, the history of hip-hop goes far beyond the USA and includes myriad transnational exchanges. Hip-hop has ...
How will the arts get working again after Covid-19? This is a critically important question for everyone who cares about them, artists and audiences alike. If you’re a student considering a career in the arts you’ll want to know where fresh opportunities ...
What did people do for fun in the years around 1800? Music was a central element of entertainment both within and outside the home. The module uses Jane Austen's fiction, correspondence and personal music collection as a springboard for exploring British...
This module focuses on common jazz harmony as used by jazz musicians and improvisers. It also explores harmonic and rhythmic devices used by some jazz musicians to inform their improvisations. The course will focus predominantly on jazz standards (music f...
This module will help the students to understand the fundamental concepts in Kinematics and Dynamics of multi-body systems. It provides an understanding of the application of simple mathematical models to vibration problems in engineering using different...
This module explores how music therapy uses music very differently to the entertainment industry, introducing you to the unique use of music as a powerful clinical tool in health and education settings. Using clinical music therapy techniques, music can b...
This practical module teaches techniques of songwriting, including creation of original melodic, lyrical, harmonic and accompaniment material. Its focus will be primarily on twentieth and twenty-first century Musical Theatre Songs, supported by occasion...
This module allows you to continue to develop your music performance skills. A combination of individual tuition (10 1hr lessons) and a variety workshop and public performance opportunities provide you with the chance to study new repertoire, improve yo...
This module follows on from FEEG1001 Design and Computing where students focus on the design of functional parts. In FEEG2001 students address the design of a system consisting of a number of interacting parts which may include mechanical and electrical ...
Year 3 modules
You must choose your modules from the following modules in year 3:
This module comprises two design exercises, the first examining practical isolation requirements and the second involved with designing an acoustic exhaust or intake with a required performance. The investigation will be conducted in groups, no larger tha...
This module is to understand the physics of active control. Active control is a method for attenuating undesirable disturbances by introducing secondary sources, whose outputs interfere with the disturbance destructively. Techniques for modelling and anal...
The transmission of sound within buildings plays a vital role in architectural design that should be taken account of at an early stage. The module covers two main areas: (i) building acoustics, that is the effects of the materials and overall design of b...
During the process of diagnosis and subsequent treatment, patients routinely undergo imaging, measurement and monitoring procedures using a wide range of techniques. Whether it is the automated monitoring of blood pressure of flow, the electrical signals ...
Students in this module are introduced to a series of techniques that can be applied to a wide range of commercial musics in lectures in the first semester. In the second semester students work closely with course tutor to in one-to-one tutorials to devel...
With a mixture of lectures and individual supervision, Composition Portfolio is the final stage of the undergraduate pathway in concert-music based composition. Building upon the skills gained in first and second year creative music based modules, the lec...
This module explores important historical and contemporary techniques and approaches to composition to give you a range of ways of thinking about creating, varying, transforming and organising musical materials. We will look at examples of compositional i...
Electroacoustic transducers, such as microphones and loudspeakers, are commonplace in the fields of acoustics and audio and it is important that acoustical engineers have an understanding of the theory and mechanisms of electroacoustic transduction. This ...
Building on the theme of Jekyll and Hyde, wherein a scientific discovery can be seen as having both beneficial (Dr. Jekyll) and detrimental aspects (Mr. Hyde), this module the general area of the ethics and social responsibility of scientific discovery wi...
This module is aimed at providing the requisite background in solid mechanics and structural vibration. Then, the module concentrates on solving this problem by introducing the Finite Element Method, aiming at providing an understanding of fundamental kn...
Hip-hop is one of the most ubiquitous, lucrative and popular musics in the world. Although it emerged in the South Bronx (New York City) in the 1970s, the history of hip-hop goes far beyond the USA and includes myriad transnational exchanges. Hip-hop has ...
This module provides an introduction to the role human factors in Engineering. It demonstrates how the characteristics and capabilities of people can be taken into account to optimise the design of things used by people, the environments in which they li...
This module provides an understanding of human responses to sound and vibration in the environment, and how such environmental stimuli are measured and assessed. People judge the success or failure of any efforts in noise and vibration control, so their r...
The Individual Project is a learning experience that enables you to carry out research and bring together many of the concepts that you have learnt over the first two years of the course as well as the knowledge and skills learnt during part III. You w...
Noise control engineering is concerned with the application of basic acoustics and vibration theory to reduce noise in practical situations. The noise control engineer needs to know how to set targets, how to characterise and quantify noise sources, and h...
Sound is a vital tool for exploring and understanding the underwater environment, it also plays a key role in many biomedical applications. This module will describe the underlying physics of sound propagation in liquids and discusses the engineering cha...
This module allows you to expand your music performance skills to a high standard. A combination of individual tuition (10 1hr lessons) and a variety workshop and public performance opportunities provide you with the chance to study new repertoire, impr...
This module is based on a topic chosen by the student, completed under the supervision of a member of staff and culminating in a detailed dissertation. The topic may be musical (historical, analytical, critical) or it may relate music to another art or di...
Signals such as audio, music, sonar, image and video convey information about physical quantities that vary over time and space. Signals can, for example, describe acoustic vibrations or radio waves, and thus play an important role throughout engineering....
Students will work on their own in the departmental recording studios and Music computing cluster on an individual project. Handouts and seminars are available where necessary, e.g. as new pieces of equipment or software are installed. Presentation skills...
This module introduces students to mathematical and numerical methods to solve practical problems in acoustics. It provides a self-contained review and derivation of the equations of linear acoustics in the time and frequency domains. Mathematical modelli...
This module introduces students to mathematical and numerical methods to solve practical problems in acoustics. It provides a self-contained review and derivation of the equations of linear acoustics in the time and frequency domains. Mathematical modelli...
Driven by both, legislation and consumer demand, automotive vehicle manufacturers have achieved considerable reductions in internal and external noise in recent decades. Key to understanding such advances and targeting future efforts is an appreciation of...
Learning and assessment
The learning activities for this course include the following:
- lectures
- classes and tutorials
- coursework
- individual and group projects
- independent learning (studying on your own)
Course time
How you'll spend your course time:
Year 1
Study time
Your scheduled learning, teaching and independent study for year 1:
How we'll assess you
- assessed performances
- compositions
- composition portfolios
- coursework, laboratory reports and essays
- creative projects
- essays
- individual and group projects
- written and practical exams
Your assessment breakdown
Year 1:
Year 2
Study time
Your scheduled learning, teaching and independent study for year 2:
How we'll assess you
- assessed performances
- compositions
- composition portfolios
- coursework, laboratory reports and essays
- creative projects
- essays
- individual and group projects
- written and practical exams
Your assessment breakdown
Year 2:
Year 3
Study time
Your scheduled learning, teaching and independent study for year 3:
How we'll assess you
- assessed performances
- compositions
- composition portfolios
- coursework, laboratory reports and essays
- creative projects
- essays
- individual and group projects
- written and practical exams
Your assessment breakdown
Year 3:
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:
-
acoustician
-
studio producer or engineer
-
performer
-
music therapist
-
composer
-
sound engineer
-
live sound engineer
-
recording engineer
-
acoustics and audio researcher
-
acoustics consultant
Our recent graduates work for leading companies such as:
-
Gillieron Scott Acoustic Design
-
GP Acoustics
-
Hoare Lea Acoustics
-
Hunter Acoustics
-
RBA Acoustics
-
SLR Consulting
-
Wolfson Microelectronics Plc
-
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 students pay £9,250.
- EU and international students pay £22,760.
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 EU and 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?
Please contact our enquiries team if you're not sure that you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000
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