Fascinated by the science of sound? Solent University’s applied acoustics masters programme can provide you with the skills and knowledge required to work in a range of acoustics fields. Suitable graduate destinations include consultancy, engineering, environmental health, built environment work or further study at PhD level.

Taught by experts with strong research and industry backgrounds, MSc Applied Acoustics offers students the chance to gain hands-on experience with the latest measurement, simulation and modelling technology. Students also study relevant scientific principles such as how humans respond to sound, acoustic physics, and how sound interacts with our environment.

We have excellent links with the Institute of Acoustics (IoA) and the Association of Noise Consultants, as well as a number of commercial companies across the sector. These include KP Acoustics, with whom we have a formal partnership for work placement and mentoring. The course has also been designed to meet the requirements for professional IoA registration.

The University also offers access to specialist facilities for the testing and demonstration of acoustic and electro-acoustic principles, including a hemi-anechoic chamber, audio isolation booths for sound recording and audiometric testing, and the University’s own digital 3D cinema.

Solent has a 10-year history of successful graduate employment in the acoustic industries.

What does this course lead to?

Acoustics offers an intellectual and practical challenge across a wide range of sectors, from manufacturing or construction to architecture, telecommunications or various engineering industries.

Acousticians could be involved in designing and planning exciting new infrastructure projects such as airports, motorways and sports arenas, or could be responsible for making airplanes and cars quieter, or improving the sound quality of a television or computer. Acousticians are also involved in the design of new buildings – from flats and houses, to skyscrapers and concert halls.

Who is this course for?

This course is ideal for students with an engineering or technology-related undergraduate degree, or who have chartered environmental health practitioner status or equivalent.

Students who are looking to gain hands-on practical experience using the latest acoustics technology will be well-suited to the course.

FACILITIES

To aid study and help perfect techniques, students have full access to the University’s laboratory and studio facilities. Students will be able to undertake acoustic measurement and laboratory projects using a wide range of test equipment such as sound level meters, a 16-channel data acquisition system, head and torso simulators, a laser vibrometer and ambisonic microphones. Students will also have access to cutting-edge simulation and modelling software, including MATLAB, NI Labview, CadnaA, CATT Acoustic, and EASE.

Solent’s on-campus acoustics consultancy provides students with the opportunity to work with real clients.

Acoustics laboratory

Applied mechanics laboratory

YOUR FUTURE

Solent has a 10-year history of successful graduate employment in the acoustic industries. Solent graduates have gone on to work in acoustics roles for Apple (acoustic engineer), Accon UK, Samsung (audio engineer), Cole Jarman Associates, Hilson Moran, Mott Macdonald, KP Acoustics, Hann Tucker Associates, Hoare Lea, Vangardia Consulting and Clarke Saunders Associates, among others.

INDUSTRY LINKS

We have excellent links with the Institute of Acoustics (IoA) and the Association of Noise Consultants, as well as a number of commercial companies across the sector. As a result of the course team’s strong industry connections, students have access to guest speakers from a range of relevant organisations. Previous speakers have included Mark Murphy and Jim Griffiths (Vanguardia Consulting), Nicholas Jones (Hilson Moran) and Phil McIlwain (Westminster City Council).

PLACEMENTS

The Professional Skills and Practice unit involves organising your own work placement with an external company, supported by staff and making use of the course team’s industry contacts.

There are a number of opportunities for work experience with professional partners and contacts, as well as through the University’s own Solent Acoustics consultancy.

Past students have worked on a range of projects, including for TruckFest, Isle of Wight Festival, Westminster City Council and KP Acoustics.