Acoustical Engineering

Acoustical Engineering

Overview

The acoustical engineering BEng (Hons) is a fantastic field that focuses on the science and technology of sound. It involves designing, developing, and performing solutions to control, measure, and improve sound quality in different surrounding conditions.

As a student, you will develop a strong knowledge of sound, vibration and their human effects. It's a course accredited by IME (Institution of Mechanical Engineers) and grants a route to chartered status.

Objectives

  1. Understanding acoustics principles and theories.
  2. Proficiency in acoustic design, measurement, and analysis.
  3. Enhancing problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
  4. Preparing students for acoustics and audio engineering careers.

Prerequisites

  1. High school diploma or equivalent
  2. Basic knowledge of mathematics and business concepts
  3. English languages proficiency

Curriculum Outline

  1. Fundamentals of Acoustics
  2. Sound Propagation and Measurement
  3. Noise Control and Vibration Analysis
  4. Architectural Acoustics
  5. Electroacoustics
  6. Audio Signal Processing
  7. Acoustical Materials and Design
  8. Environmental Acoustics
  9. Advanced Noise Control Engineering
  10. Advanced Architectural Acoustics
  11. Advanced Electroacoustics
  12. Advanced Audio Signal Processing
  13. Acoustical Design for Buildings
  14. Acoustical Design for Transportation
  15. Acoustical Design for Industrial Applications
  16. Acoustical Measurement and Instrumentation
  17. Audio Engineering
  18. Sound Design
  19. Music Technology
  20. Acoustic Ecology
  21. Psychoacoustics
  22. Bioacoustics
  23. Underwater Acoustics

Teaching Method

  1. Lectures
  2. Laboratory experiments
  3. Fieldwork
  4. Group projects
  5. Case studies

Modules

  1. Wave propagation and sound fields
  2. Sound intensity and power
  3. Sound measurement and analysis
  4. Acoustic impedance and admittance
  5. Noise sources and transmission paths
  6. Noise control techniques
  7. Vibration measurement and analysis
  8. Vibration isolation and damping
  9. Sound in buildings
  10. Room acoustics
  11. Noise control in buildings
  12. Sound insulation and absorption
  13. Reverberation time
  14. Microphones and loudspeakers
  15. Audio amplifiers and preamps
  16. Audio signal processing
  17. Audio systems and equipment
  18. Digital audio signals
  19. Sampling and quantization
  20. Fourier analysis
  21. Digital filters
  22. Audio effects and processing techniques
  23. Active noise control
  24. Noise control in industrial environments
  25. Noise control in transportation
  26. Noise pollution and regulation
  27. Acoustical design of concert halls and theaters
  28. Acoustical design of studios and control rooms
  29. Acoustical design of offices and residential spaces
  30. Acoustical design for noise reduction in buildings
  31. Audio transducers
  32. Audio amplifiers and preamps
  33. Audio signal processing algorithms
  34. Audio systems design and optimization
  35. Audio coding and compression
  36. Audio enhancement and restoration
  37. Audio synthesis and sound design
  38. Audio spatialization and localization
  39. Recording techniques
  40. Mixing and mastering
  41. Music production
  42. Audio post-production
  43. Sound effects design
  44. Foley art
  45. Sound for media
  46. Sound for video games

Assessment Methods

  1. Lectures
  2. Classes and tutorials
  3. Coursework, laboratory reports and essays
  4. Design and problem-solving exercises
  5. Oral presentations
  6. Placement assessment
  7. Written and practical exams
  8. Individual and group projects
  9. Independent learning (studying on your own)

Course Duration

The course length is 03 years and may vary depending on the programme and institution.

But in the UK, the on-average accounting BA (Hons) course length is:

  1. Full-time 03 years.
  2. Full-time 04 years, if undertaking a foundation year.

Facilities

  1. Acoustics laboratories
  2. Anechoic chambers
  3. Reverberation chambers
  4. Sound measurement equipment
  5. Audio engineering studios
  6. Acoustics laboratories
  7. Audio engineering studios
  8. Vibration testing facilities
  9. Computer labs
  10. Field testing equipment
  11. Access to research facilities

Career Pathways

  1. Acoustical engineer
  2. Audio engineer
  3. Noise control consultant
  4. Architectural acoustician
  5. Vibration analyst
  6. Environmental acoustician
  7. Acoustics researcher
  8. Audio Equipment Designer
  9. Acoustics Consultant
  10. Audio Post-Production Specialist
  11. Acoustics Educator

Fees and Fundings

Tuition fees for international students: 2025/26 - Full-time £17,650.00 - £23,620 per year and vary depending on the institution.

  1. Scholarship opportunities may be available
  2. Government loans may be available

Entry Requirements

  1. Academic qualifications
  2. English language proficiency
  3. Personal statement
  4. References
  5. Portfolio (optional)

Field Work and Internships

  1. Opportunities for internships in acoustics consulting firms, audio engineering studios, or research institutions.
  2. Practical experience to apply theoretical knowledge.

Certifications

  1. Certified Noise Control Engineer (CNCE).
  2. Certified Acoustical Consultant (CAC).
  3. Certified Sound Designer (CSD).
  4. Certified Audio Engineer (CAE).

Intakes

Typically twice a year but may varies depending on the institution, like:

  1. Fall semester
  2. Spring semester
  3. Summer semester

Student Testimony

“So, I’d say regardless of the course content, we have a gold standard of teaching because our lecturers have authority and a voice in the world of acoustics!” Says - “Alexander Lehman, Acoustical and Audio Engineering student.

Frequently asked questions

A strong background in mathematics, physics, and engineering is essential. Additionally, skills in sound measurement, analysis, and design are crucial for success in this field.

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