Acoustical and Audio Engineering
Full-time
With placement
Four year
Five year
September 2025
In a nutshell
With a focus on solving real-world problems, acoustics explores the physics of sound and the psychology of how people react to noise and vibration. Prepare for a rewarding future career where you can create a better sounding world with our MEng (Hons) Acoustical and Audio Engineering degree.
For over 60 years Salford has pioneered acoustics teaching and research, and is recognised by the UK Institute of Acoustics with a route to Chartered Engineer status meaning you will be taught to the highest industry standards. Led by research-active practitioners, you'll complete practical experiments in our acoustic facilities, and discover the amazing ways that sound and acoustics impact our everyday lives.
We use small-group teaching to guide you through this creative area of science and engineering. You will follow carefully-designed modules that embed theoretical knowledge and creative application, and nurture your transferable skills so you can become a world-class acoustic and audio professional.
Start your study journey
Register for our next Open Day to learn more about studying MEng (Hons) Acoustical and Audio Engineering, explore our facilities and meet the course team
You will:
- Complete experiments and projects in world-class acoustics facilities and laboratories
- Discover the acoustic design principles behind smartphones, cars and loudspeakers, as well as recording studios, public places and live venues
- Gain professional-level knowledge and skills that could lead to future Chartered Engineer status
- Include a placement year to apply your knowledge and develop additional transferable skills
- Stand out in the graduate jobs market as you take your acoustical engineering knowledge to master's level
options available
students accepted
This is for you if...
You are passionate about sound, with a strong background/interest in science and technology
You enjoyed mathematics or physics at school/college and like using technology to find solutions
You want a degree with professional status with the opportunity to take your studies to postgraduate level
All about the course
Course delivery
Having the ability to apply technical detail is at the heart of engineering, and core to Salford’s values, so we embed this as a core learning objective throughout your studies.
Building a strong understanding of analogue electronics, mathematics, computing and audio systems in year one, you will progress to explore subjects such as digital signal processing and microphone and speaker design in year two.
By the final year, you’ll have started your industry placement and you can personalise your study path by choosing from specialised modules and advance on to the postgraduate level.
Learn more about the course modules in the section below.
Learning experience
Located just over a mile away from Manchester, we are one of the few universities to offer an Acoustics and Audio degree course in the UK. With strong industry connections surrounding our Peel Park campus, you can gain practical experience and network with industry experts.
In year two of your studies, The Digital Signal Processing module will give you a thorough grounding in the techniques and applications of digital technology of acoustic signals so our specialist equipment and modules will leave you confidently able to interpret data to solve sound related issues.
Having the ability to apply technique is at the heart of engineering, so you will spend lots of time in our studio and laboratories. We also involve you in a small group design project, working to find a creative solution to an issue which provides you with practical hands-on learning so that you are fully prepared for life in the real world.
Industry placement
On this course, you will have the option to take an industry placement year between years two and three. Although you will be responsible for securing your placement, our tutors will support you in finding a role, and monitor your progress throughout. By successfully completing a placement year, you can also add 'with professional experience' to your final degree award.
Industry placements are an excellent way to enhance your CV, gain hands-on work experience and build industry connections. We often find that placement students achieve higher final year grades.
Introduction to Acoustics
This module offers an introduction to a wide range of concepts in acoustics and allows you to begin to gain skills in the practical measurement and analysis of acoustic devices and audio technologies.
Analogue Electronics
You will look at the basic building blocks in audio electronic circuits and develop an understanding and appreciation of impedance, current and voltage in circuits, use of complex numbers and circuit analysis. You will also use SPICE simulation for circuit analysis and design.
Mathematics (Acoustics)
You will be given the basic mathematical skills and concepts required to appreciate and succeed in understanding acoustics and audio engineering.
Acoustics Laboratory
You will be taught about a wide variety of specialist acoustic and audio measurements, in terms of equipment familiarity, correct use, interpretation of data and correct reporting (oral and written).
New
Studio Production
This module is designed to give you an understanding of the underlying concepts and principles of multi-track production, develop your production skills to translate multi-source live music and sound into a recorded stereo image, and develop the organisational skills needed to successfully record an artist/group. Typically, you will use our Pro-Tools sound recording studios to record a band.
Signal Chain Theory
This module introduces the basic fundamentals of sound, signals, and systems, and then explores the signal flow of a complete generic audio system, from capture (microphones) to playback (loudspeakers) and transmission.
Digital Signal Processing
This module gives a thorough grounding in the techniques and applications of digital technology in the acquisition, processing, storage and transmission of acoustic signals.
Microphone and Loudspeaker Design
On completion of this module you will have an understanding of electroacoustic transduction mechanisms and the modelling techniques used in the design of microphones and loudspeakers.
Principles of Acoustics
You will build on your knowledge and skills from the Introduction to acoustics module, to give you a thorough understanding of the fundamentals of acoustics. Subjects include: Fourier's theorem, solutions of 1-D wave equation, acoustic impedance, reflection factor and absorption coefficient, 3-D wave equation, radiation impedance, and behaviour of sound in 3D enclosures.
Industrial Studies and Career Management
You will understand the nature of entrepreneurs and the development of entrepreneurial organisations. You will cover popular business theories such as theory of management, the role of enterprise in the economy, leadership and management of an enterprise and developing and managing quality in the enterprise.
Group Design Project
You will work together with course mates on a specific real world acoustic/audio design task and come up with a real practical solution using the acoustics laboratory facilities and the Maker Space facilities and equipment.
New
Electromagnetism
You will learn about the fundamental laws of electromagnetism leading to the development of Maxwell’s equations and the electromagnetic wave equation. Underlying mathematical techniques, including vector calculus, will be introduced alongside the physical laws. The module is taught by a combination of lectures and problem solving tutorials.
Final Year Project
The final year project is your opportunity to demonstrate your understanding and application of the knowledge you have acquired on the course. The project topic chosen will be on an agreed subject related to audio or acoustics and you have the option to work within a group or as an individual with regular supervision.
Choose two modules from the following group:
Room Acoustics
You will work with wave and statistical theories of room acoustics to analyse existing rooms or design new ones, as well as critically evaluate key theories and experimental results in the literature. You will examine how sound fields in rooms can be characterised and to what extent this explains perceptions of sound in rooms. This will enable you to apply techniques to control sound fields in rooms by absorption and scattering, with an appreciation of their limitations.
Digital Signal Processing and Machine Learning
You will perform modelling and analysis in the z-transformed domain and understand modern DSP techniques such as blind signal processing. You will apply the process of digital filtering; fixed, adaptive, recursive and non-recursive partly drawing on the latest research outcomes. You will also apply and understand Machine Learning methods for engineering applications.
Psychoacoustics and Musical Acoustics
Music is one of the most important signals in acoustics and audio. This module is about how musical sounds are made, how they can be modelled and synthesised, and also how listeners respond to them.
During the module, you will learn how the human auditory system works, starting with the physiology and physics of the ear, developing a solid grasp of how loudness, pitch and the ear’s frequency bands really work. The module covers a very diverse range of disciplines including physics, psychoacoustics and musicology. You’ll apply your new knowledge and skills in coursework assignments.
Noise and Vibration Control
This module will provide you with knowledge and understanding of noise and vibration control engineering processes and methodologies. You will learn how to select appropriate noise and vibration control options for realistic scenarios, with a focus on the transport industry (road, rail and air vehicles).
During the module, you will also learn the main sound generation mechanisms in road, rail and air vehicles. You will gain a thorough understanding of current best practice in noise and vibration control, and apply appropriate acoustical analysis to assess limitations and/or adapt them for application in unfamiliar situations.
Plus two further modules from the following group:
Computer Simulation for Acoustics
In this module, you will learn the fundamental principles of computer simulation techniques: geometric room acoustics, finite element method, and boundary element method using COMSOL and related software packages.
During the module, you will undertake practical problem solving using computer modelling of acoustical systems and assess the field of application, accuracy and limitations of the computer simulation methods.
Environmental Noise Measurement and Modelling
In this module, you will carry out measurement and modelling of environmental noise using appropriate sound measuring instrumentation and modelling capabilities. You will develop the ability to describe and explain the main provisions of current environmental noise legislation, guidance and best practice.
During the module, you will also develop the ability to interpret the requirements in order to carry out reliable environmental noise measurements and modelling, and apply acoustic theory decision about the most appropriate interventions to control environmental noise. This module will also introduce the state-of-the-art soundscape methods.
Measurement Analysis and Assessment
You will develop an understanding of the relevant scientific principles underlying acoustic measurement techniques, and effectively undertake standardised acoustic measurements, taking full account of uncertainty introduced throughout the process.You will perform appropriate analysis of measured data, and communicate findings effectively to a specialist audience.
Immersive Sound Reproduction
In this module, you will develop understanding of transducer systems for the capture and reproduction of 3D sound. You will then go on to develop understanding of how the human auditory system works and how this can be exploited to deliver realistic and immersive spatial audio experiences.
During the module, you will also learn how to design loudspeaker systems using typical enclosures or horns and develop the skills necessary to design PA systems using suitable loudspeaker systems and arrays.
Group Design Project
You will demonstrate an understanding of techniques applicable to your research, show originality in the application of knowledge, together with a practical understanding of how established techniques of research and enquiry are used to create, interpret and critically evaluate knowledge within the chosen project area. You will be expected to deal with complex issues both systematically and creatively, make sound judgements in the absence of complete data, demonstrate self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems, and act autonomously in planning and implementing tasks at a professional or equivalent level.
Choose two modules from the following group:
Digital Signal Processing and Machine Learning
This module aims to give you an understanding of how acoustic signals may be handled and processed digitally, considering the benefits and limitations. You will study the decomposition of signals in frequency and their manipulation using digital filters, including design and analysis techniques.
During the module, you will develop knowledge of advanced signal processing methods based on adaptive filtering and machine learning, including an awareness of their basis and limitations, whilst gaining the skills to apply them.
Noise and Vibration Control
This module will provide you with knowledge and understanding of noise and vibration control engineering processes and methodologies. You will learn how to select appropriate noise and vibration control options for realistic scenarios, with a focus on the transport industry (road, rail and air vehicles).
During the module, you will also learn the main sound generation mechanisms in road, rail and air vehicles. You will gain a thorough understanding of current best practice in noise and vibration control, and apply appropriate acoustical analysis to assess limitations and/or adapt them for application in unfamiliar situations.
Psychoacoustics and Musical Acoustics
Music is one of the most important signals in acoustics and audio. This module is about how musical sounds are made, how they can be modelled and synthesised, and also how listeners respond to them.
During the module, you will learn how the human auditory system works, starting with the physiology and physics of the ear, developing a solid grasp of how loudness, pitch and the ear’s frequency bands really work. The module covers a very diverse range of disciplines including physics, psychoacoustics and musicology. You’ll apply your new knowledge and skills in coursework assignments.
Room Acoustics
This module aims to provide you with a thorough grasp of room acoustics principles, including theoretical models for both low and high frequencies, developing your ability to apply these in order to analyse existing rooms or design new ones.
During the module, you will study wave theory and statistical theory for acoustic enclosures, including objective descriptions of and how these tally with listeners' perceptions. Techniques for designing and applying sound absorbing and scattering treatments will be covered, and you will consider the effectiveness and limitations of these in important application areas such as musical performances spaces and critical listening rooms.
Plus two further modules from the following group:
Computer Simulation for Acoustics
In this module, you will learn the fundamental principles of computer simulation techniques: geometric room acoustics, finite element method, and boundary element method using COMSOL and related software packages.
During the module, you will undertake practical problem solving using computer modelling of acoustical systems and assess the field of application, accuracy and limitations of the computer simulation methods.
Environmental Noise Measurement and Modelling
In this module, you will carry out measurement and modelling of environmental noise using appropriate sound measuring instrumentation and modelling capabilities. You will develop the ability to describe and explain the main provisions of current environmental noise legislation, guidance and best practice.
During the module, you will also develop the ability to interpret the requirements in order to carry out reliable environmental noise measurements and modelling, and apply acoustic theory decision about the most appropriate interventions to control environmental noise. This module will also introduce the state-of-the-art soundscape methods.
Immersive Sound Reproduction
In this module, you will develop understanding of transducer systems for the capture and reproduction of 3D sound. You will then go on to develop understanding of how the human auditory system works and how this can be exploited to deliver realistic and immersive spatial audio experiences.
During the module, you will also learn how to design loudspeaker systems using typical enclosures or horns and develop the skills necessary to design PA systems using suitable loudspeaker systems and arrays.
Measurement Analysis and Assessment
In this module, you will develop an understanding of the relevant scientific principles underlying acoustic measurement techniques, and effectively undertake standardised acoustic measurements, taking full account of uncertainty introduced throughout the process.
During the module, you will perform appropriate analysis of measured data, and communicate findings effectively to a specialist audience.
Please note that it may not be possible to deliver the full list of options every year as this will depend on factors such as how many students choose a particular option. Exact modules may also vary in order to keep content current. When accepting your offer of a place to study on this programme, you should be aware that not all optional modules will be running each year. Your tutor will be able to advise you as to the available options on or before the start of the programme. Whilst the University tries to ensure that you are able to undertake your preferred options, it cannot guarantee this.
Frequently asked questions
What is a MEng degree?
This programme is offered as a 3-year bachelor’s (BEng) qualification or a MEng that has an additional year of study (4 years) that gives you a higher master’s qualification.
What is acoustical and audio engineering?
Acoustical and audio engineering is the branch of engineering that explores the physics of sound and the psychology of how people react to noise and vibration. Acoustical and audio engineers focus on the design, analysis and control of sound.
Is acoustical and audio engineering a good career?
A career in acoustical and audio engineering can be very rewarding. If you choose to go down this career path, you could play an important role in reducing noise pollution, preventing hearing loss, and preserving the environment.
What can you do with an acoustical and audio engineering degree?
Acoustical and audio engineering graduates may go into roles such as:
- Broadcast Engineer
- Noise Consultant
- Acoustics Specialist
- Audio Technology Designer
and more...
School of Science, Engineering and Environment
Rising to the challenge of a changing world, our degree courses are designed to shape the next generation of urbanists, scientists, engineers and industry leaders.
Driven by industry, and delivered by supportive programme teams, you can develop the knowledge and skills to become unstoppable in your career.
Facilities
As an Acoustical and Audio Engineering student, you will study at our green Peel Park campus, featuring accessible lecture theatres, AV-equipped classrooms, computing suites and multimedia libraries, with access to industry journals, databases, and simulation software. Online, you will experience our Blackboard Ultra virtual learning environment.
During your studies, you will use our world-class acoustic laboratories at Peel Park, which include anechoic chambers, transmission suites, reverberation chambers, listening rooms and audiometric test facilities. At our MediaCity campus, you'll find more industry-standard professional audio-visual suites, and production and recording studios.
Industry Collaboration and Research
When you start this degree with Salford, you are also joining a community making a difference in industry, our local region and in our wider society.
Many of our academics and technicians who support your course also deliver collaborative, interdisciplinary, high-impact work in a range of local and global issues and challenges with noise, sound and vibration.
Read on and discover how you are part of something bigger.
What about after uni?
Employment
Successfully completing an acoustical and audio engineering degree course can put you in a great position to take a leading role in the diverse world of sound, music production, acoustics and audio. With a growing number of opportunities in areas such as environmental noise measurement, loudspeaker system design for music venues and noise control, there are exciting and emerging career fields to consider
Audio and acoustics graduates often develop careers as acoustic consultants improving the sound of buildings or reducing noise, product developers carrying out research and development in an industry or university setting, and audio software engineers in broadcast and gaming. Our graduates have progressed their career in roles with Arup, Apple, Dolby, Jaguar Land Rover, Thales, NHS, and Sandy Brown Associates.
Further study
You might find that you want to learn more about acoustics and audio. Building on our expertise, we offer a range of postgraduate courses that can take your interests and career opportunities further. Salford graduates and alumni who apply for our postgraduate courses also qualify to receive a generous fees discount.
Some graduates choose to pursue postgraduate and doctoral research. For over 60 years, the Acoustics Research Centre at Salford has led audio and acoustics knowledge-building and innovation. Funded by research councils, government bodies and industry, the Centre offers a range of postgraduate research opportunities for acoustics graduates.
Career Links
The University of Salford began teaching undergraduate acoustics and audio courses in 1975 and and many of our graduates can be found in major acoustic and audio companies around the world. The course is recognised by the UK Institute of Acoustics and offers a route to Chartered Engineer status. This leading reputation and professional standing has helped us to build opportunities for our students across the UK and beyond.
Our acoustics staff hold strong links with industry through collaborative R&D projects either through the Acoustics Research Centre or via our commercial test laboratories. These connection help us to keep course content relevant to the needs of industry and in tune with latest research findings.
Research by our staff has been incorporated in International Standards used by major engineering companies such as Dyson, Boeing and Bosch, developed the standard methods using by the Environment Agency to access low frequency sound and created technologies used in everyday products, such as the air-springs in Audi cars.
What you need to know
Applicant profile
We look for applicants who have studied mathematics or physics subjects at school/college, and want to gain a deeper knowledge in these and other related subjects, with particular bias towards sound. Along with academic strengths in these areas, we want applicants with a passion for audio, acoustics and sound, and a desire to build a future career working or researching in this field.
English language requirements
All of our courses are taught and assessed in English. If English is not your first language, you must meet our minimum English language entry requirements. An IELTS score of 6.0 (no element below 5.5) is proof of this, and we also accept a range of equivalent qualifications.
Read more about our English language requirements, including information about pathways that can help you gain entry on to our degree courses. If you do not have the English language requirements, you could take our Pre-Sessional English course, or the International Foundation Year to gain entry onto this degree.
GCSE
English Language and Mathematics at grade C/level 4 or above (or equivalent). You must fulfil our GCSE entry requirements as well as one of the requirements listed below.
UCAS tariff points
128 UCAS points where qualifications include mathematics, physics, engineering or a numerate science
A-Level
128 UCAS points, including grade C in mathematics, physics or a numerate science.
BTEC National Diploma
DDM for Engineering or Science subjects, including Distinctions in mathematics modules
Access to HE
Pass with 128 UCAS points from a QAA-approved science or engineering course
Scottish Highers
128 UCAS points to include mathematics, physics or chemistry at grade C for Advanced Higher level, or grade A at Higher level
Irish Leaving Certificate
128 UCAS points to Higher Level mathematics and physics
European Baccalaureate
Pass in Diploma of at least 60%, to include a numerate science or engineering
International Baccalaureate
31 points including Higher Level physics, mathematics or chemistry at grade 5
International students
We accept qualifications from all around the world. Find your country to see a full list of entry requirements. If you do not have the English language requirements, you could take the International Foundation Year to gain entry onto this degree.
European Baccalaureate
Pass in Diploma of at least 60%, to include a numerate science or engineering
Salford Alternative Entry Scheme (SAES)
We welcome applications from students who may not meet the stated entry criteria but who can demonstrate their ability to pursue the course successfully. Once we have received your application we will assess it and recommend it for SAES if you are an eligible candidate.
There are two different routes through the Salford Alternative Entry Scheme and applicants will be directed to the one appropriate for their course. Assessment will either be through a review of prior learning or through a formal test. To be considered for the scheme, you must have already achieved or be working towards GCSE Maths and English Grade C/4 (or equivalent).
Learn more about the Salford Alternative Entry Scheme.
How much?
Type of study | Year | Fees |
---|---|---|
Full-time home | 2025/26 | £9,250.00per year |
Full-time international | 2025/26 | £17,650.00per year |
Additional costs
You should consider further costs which may include books, stationery, printing, binding and general subsistence on trips and visits.
International student scholarships
If you are a high-achieving international student, you may be eligible for one of our scholarships.
Learn more about our latest international scholarships.