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 unique degree combines musical composition and critical analysis with acoustical engineering. We're one of only a few UK universities to offer this type of course. 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 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:
anechoic and reverberation chambers
an aeroacoustic wind tunnel
a virtual acoustics laboratory
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.
You can download the course details, including modules, in the programme specificationPDF opens in a new window (PDF, 294.16 KB).
Location and awarding body
The course location is Highfield in Southampton and Boldrewood campus in Southampton. The awarding body is University of Southampton.
Entry requirements
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.
International Baccalaureate Diploma
Pass, with 34 points overall, with 17 points required 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.
BTEC
D in the BTEC National Extended Certificate 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 National Extended Diploma.
We do not accept the BTEC National Diploma.
Applicants with a BTEC National 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.
Other qualifications
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 Career Programme (IBCP) offer
Please see the University of Southampton International Baccalaureate Career-Related Programme (IBCP) StatementPDF opens in a new window (PDF, 62.17 KB) for further information.
Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
BTEC (RQF) (reformed)
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
Access to HE Diploma
Applicants with an Access to HE Diploma should apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics/Geophysics Foundation Year
Access to HE Diploma additional information
There are no additional requirements
Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2017)
H1 H2 H2 H2 H2 H2 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 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 Leaving 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
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, 111.01 KB) 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 at D3, physics at D3 and music at 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), 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.
or
AA from two A levels including mathematics and physics with a pass in the physics Practical, 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
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.
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.
GCSE requirements
Applicants must hold GCSE English language (or GCSE English) (minimum grade 4/C) and mathematics (minimum grade 4/C)
English language requirements
All applicants must demonstrate they possess at least a minimum standard of English language proficiency. Applicants requiring a visa to study in the UK who do not offer GCSE English language (or GCSE English) at the required level will need to meet the following English language proficiency requirement. Find out more about the University’s English Language requirements.
Band B IELTS 6.5 overall, with a minimum of 5.5 in all components
IELTS score requirements
- reading
- 5.5
- writing
- 5.5
- speaking
- 5.5
- listening
- 5.5
We also accept other English language tests.
Non-academic entry requirements
There are no additional requirements
International qualifications
Find a list of accepted international qualifications listed by country.
This is a list of the international qualifications that are recognised by the University of Southampton. If you are not sure that your qualifications meet the requirements of this course please contact our Admissions Teams.
Other ways to qualify
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.
Course structure
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
Compulsory modules will provide a background in acoustical engineering. You'll study the physics and mathematics of sound and acoustics.
Music modules look at:
performance
composition
history
critical analysis
You'll choose from optional modules, including:
Dynamics
Introduction to Music Technology
Exploring Music I
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
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
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
Studio Techniques
Orchestration
Ensemble Performance
Want more detail? See all the modules in the course.
Modules
Modules year 1
Compulsory modules
You must take the following compulsory modules in year 1:
Optional modules
You can choose from the following optional modules in year 1:
- Composition Fundamentals
- Transformations in Twentieth-Century Music: Pop, Jazz, Art Music and Beyond
- First Year Performance Tuition (single module)
- Introduction to Music Technology
- First Year Performance Tuition, Joint Studies
- Exploring Music 2
- Electrical and Electronics Systems
- Exploring Music 1
- Fundamentals of Analysis, Counterpoint and Harmony
Modules year 2
Compulsory modules
You must take the following compulsory modules in year 2:
Optional modules
You can choose from the following optional modules in year 2:
- Songwriting
- Ensemble Performance 1
- How the Arts Work: a practical introduction to cultural economics
- Electronics, Drives and Control
- Systems Design and Computing
- Composition Workshop
- Conducting
- Mechanics, Machines & Vibration
- From Teddy Boys to Drag Queens – Music and Subculture
- Performance Tuition (Single Study)
- Global Hip Hop
- Jane Austen's Playlist: Entertainment in Georgian Britain
- Engineering Management and Law
- Music Therapy 1: Fundamentals
- Jazz Theory
Modules year 3
Core modules
You must study and pass these core modules in year 3:
Optional modules
You can choose from the following optional modules in year 3:
- Studio Techniques 2
- Biomedical Application of Signal and Image Processing
- Numerical Methods for Acoustics
- Control and Instrumentation
- Human Responses to Sound and Vibration
- Human Factors in Engineering
- Musical Instrument Acoustics
- Architectural and Building Acoustics
- Vehicle Powertrain, Noise and Vibration
- Acoustical Engineering Design
- Electroacoustics
- Ocean Acoustics & Biomedical Ultrasound
- Noise Control Engineering
- Ensemble Performance I
- Mathematical methods for acoustics
- Commercial Composition
- Ethics in Science, Engineering and Technology: Jekyll and Hyde
- Composition Portfolio
- Ensemble Performance II
- Finite Element Analysis in Solid Mechanics
- Composition Workshop
- Active Control of Sound and Vibration
- Music Therapy 2: Beneath the Surface
- Performance Tuition (Single Study)
- Global Hip Hop
- Signal Processing
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)
Support for your studies
You'll be supported by a personal academic tutor and have access to a senior tutor.
How you’ll spend your study time
Your scheduled learning, teaching and independent study, year by year:
Year 1
- Scheduled learning and teaching
- 34%
- Independent study
- 66%
- Placement
- 0%
Year 2
- Scheduled learning and teaching
- 24%
- Independent study
- 76%
- Placement
- 0%
Year 3
- Scheduled learning and teaching
- 16%
- Independent study
- 84%
- Placement
- 0%
Course leader
Keith Holland is the course leader.
How we’ll assess you
We’ll assess you using:
- 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 by year:
Year 1
- Written exam
- 49%
- Practical exam
- 20%
- Coursework
- 31%
Year 2
- Written exam
- 34%
- Practical exam
- 21%
- Coursework
- 45%
Year 3
- Written exam
- 5%
- Practical exam
- 29%
- Coursework
- 66%
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
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
UK/EU fees
You'll pay £9,250 in tuition fees for the academic year 2020 to 2021. This fee might change for further years of your course.
International student fees
You’ll pay £21,580 each year. This fee will stay the same throughout your studies.
What your fees pay for
Your tuition fees pay for the full cost of tuition and all examinations.
Find out how to:
Extra costs you might have to pay
- Approved Calculators
- Design equipment and materials
- Stationery
- Textbooks
- Field course clothing
- Optional Visits (e.g. museums, galleries)
- Field Equipment and Materials
- Vocal and Instrumental Lessons
- Printing and Photocopying Costs
See the full list of extra items and costs in the programme specificationPDF opens in a new window 2020 to 2021 (PDF, 294.16 KB).
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.
Life at Southampton
The University offers a friendly, diverse and welcoming home for you while you study. You'll work, live and socialise with students from more than 130 countries.
Clubs, societies and facilities
Our campuses have:
cafes and restaurants
bars
health centres
banks
a post office
student shops
a hairdresser
Our sports facilities include a 25-metre swimming pool, a gym with 140 fitness stations, squash courts, a bouldering wall, outdoor pitches and much more. There are over 80 sports clubs you could join, and activity classes including yoga and spin.
We have an internationally known theatre, concert hall, art gallery and cinema showing everything from mainstream blockbusters to international arthouse classics. You could perform at a gig, concert or show, take part in an exhibition or join a writers’ workshop. Find out more about arts and culture at Southampton.
Whatever your passion or community, you can find like-minded people at one of the Students’ Union clubs and societies. There are more than 200 to join, and social activities in every hall of residence.
Support while you study
We aim to help you deal with any problems you might come across, so you can make the most of your time at university. We offer support with:
mental health, learning difficulties and disability
money and accommodation
childcare
computers and IT
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.
We treat and select everyone in line with our Equality and Diversity Statement.