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
- Understanding acoustics principles and theories.
- Proficiency in acoustic design, measurement, and analysis.
- Enhancing problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
- Preparing students for acoustics and audio engineering careers.
Prerequisites
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Basic knowledge of mathematics and business concepts
- English languages proficiency
Curriculum Outline
- Fundamentals of Acoustics
- Sound Propagation and Measurement
- Noise Control and Vibration Analysis
- Architectural Acoustics
- Electroacoustics
- Audio Signal Processing
- Acoustical Materials and Design
- Environmental Acoustics
- Advanced Noise Control Engineering
- Advanced Architectural Acoustics
- Advanced Electroacoustics
- Advanced Audio Signal Processing
- Acoustical Design for Buildings
- Acoustical Design for Transportation
- Acoustical Design for Industrial Applications
- Acoustical Measurement and Instrumentation
- Audio Engineering
- Sound Design
- Music Technology
- Acoustic Ecology
- Psychoacoustics
- Bioacoustics
- Underwater Acoustics
Teaching Method
- Lectures
- Laboratory experiments
- Fieldwork
- Group projects
- Case studies
Modules
- Wave propagation and sound fields
- Sound intensity and power
- Sound measurement and analysis
- Acoustic impedance and admittance
- Noise sources and transmission paths
- Noise control techniques
- Vibration measurement and analysis
- Vibration isolation and damping
- Sound in buildings
- Room acoustics
- Noise control in buildings
- Sound insulation and absorption
- Reverberation time
- Microphones and loudspeakers
- Audio amplifiers and preamps
- Audio signal processing
- Audio systems and equipment
- Digital audio signals
- Sampling and quantization
- Fourier analysis
- Digital filters
- Audio effects and processing techniques
- Active noise control
- Noise control in industrial environments
- Noise control in transportation
- Noise pollution and regulation
- Acoustical design of concert halls and theaters
- Acoustical design of studios and control rooms
- Acoustical design of offices and residential spaces
- Acoustical design for noise reduction in buildings
- Audio transducers
- Audio amplifiers and preamps
- Audio signal processing algorithms
- Audio systems design and optimization
- Audio coding and compression
- Audio enhancement and restoration
- Audio synthesis and sound design
- Audio spatialization and localization
- Recording techniques
- Mixing and mastering
- Music production
- Audio post-production
- Sound effects design
- Foley art
- Sound for media
- Sound for video games
Assessment Methods
- Lectures
- Classes and tutorials
- Coursework, laboratory reports and essays
- Design and problem-solving exercises
- Oral presentations
- Placement assessment
- Written and practical exams
- Individual and group projects
- 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:
- Full-time 03 years.
- Full-time 04 years, if undertaking a foundation year.
Facilities
- Acoustics laboratories
- Anechoic chambers
- Reverberation chambers
- Sound measurement equipment
- Audio engineering studios
- Acoustics laboratories
- Audio engineering studios
- Vibration testing facilities
- Computer labs
- Field testing equipment
- Access to research facilities
Career Pathways
- Acoustical engineer
- Audio engineer
- Noise control consultant
- Architectural acoustician
- Vibration analyst
- Environmental acoustician
- Acoustics researcher
- Audio Equipment Designer
- Acoustics Consultant
- Audio Post-Production Specialist
- 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.
- Scholarship opportunities may be available
- Government loans may be available
Entry Requirements
- Academic qualifications
- English language proficiency
- Personal statement
- References
- Portfolio (optional)
Field Work and Internships
- Opportunities for internships in acoustics consulting firms, audio engineering studios, or research institutions.
- Practical experience to apply theoretical knowledge.
Certifications
- Certified Noise Control Engineer (CNCE).
- Certified Acoustical Consultant (CAC).
- Certified Sound Designer (CSD).
- Certified Audio Engineer (CAE).
Intakes
Typically twice a year but may varies depending on the institution, like:
- Fall semester
- Spring semester
- 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.