Higher Certificate in Sound Engineering and Music Production

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 2 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Undergraduate Certificate
Next Intake TBA

Course Overview

The Higher Certificate in Sound Engineering and Music Production at Dublin Business School is designed for aspiring audio professionals eager to master the technical and creative skills essential for success in the modern music and media industries. You will explore the intricate worlds of acoustics, psychoacoustics, and digital audio workstations, developing a deep understanding of sound recording, fundamental mixing, and electronic music composition. This programme provides a solid foundation for those looking to build a career where artistic expression meets technological expertise, preparing you for the dynamic demands of audio production.

This full-time, on-campus certificate is studied over two years, immersing you in practical learning experiences. You will engage with core areas such as studio recording principles, pre-production, and the business aspects of music, including marketing and client project management. A distinctive feature of the course involves hands-on work with studio production and client briefs, alongside practical electronics, allowing you to build a professional portfolio. Upon graduation, you will be well-prepared for entry-level roles in audio engineering, music production, or further specialised study.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Higher Certificate program provides a comprehensive foundation in sound engineering and music production across two years. Year one introduces critical listening, preproduction, studio engineering, instrument setup, audio software, and business fundamentals for aspiring music professionals. Building on this, the second year delves deeper into critical listening, mixing, studio recording techniques, electronic music composition, acoustics, marketing, and project management, alongside practical electronics.

1 Year 1

Introduction to Critical Listening
Introduction to Preproduction and Studio Engineering
Introduction to Musical Instrument Set Up
Introduction to Sound and Audio Recording Software
Learning to Learn
Introduction to Electronic Music Composition
Introduction to Business for Music Professionals

2 Year 2

Critical Listening and Fundamental Mixing Skills
Studio Recording Principles and Techniques
Electronic Music Composition and Production
Fundamental Acoustics and Psychoacoustics for Production
Marketing Essentials and Business Planning
Introduction to Studio Production and Client Project Management
Practical Electronics

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 12,175.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 12,175.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 24,350.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 349.00 - USD 849.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,930.00 - USD 5,613.00
Transport USD 842.00 - USD 1,965.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,404.00 - USD 2,105.00
Estimated Total USD 6,176.00 - USD 9,683.00

Living cost estimates are based on Aungier Street Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

78%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Broadcasting & TelevisionData Science & AnalyticsDevOps & Site Reliability EngineeringHardware & Semiconductor EngineeringHigher Education & UniversitiesJournalism & ReportingMarket Research & InsightsQuality Assurance & TestingSoftware Development & EngineeringSpecial & Inclusive Education

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Department of Education and Youth

Google

RTE

TikTok

Why Study Higher Certificate in Sound Engineering and Music Production at Dublin Business School

What makes this program stand out

Top 20 in UK For Computer Science

Exeter's Computer Science department consistently ranks among the top 20 in the UK for both teaching quality and research output.

Fast Offers Quick turnaround

Exeter typically responds to applications within 2-3 weeks, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Flexible Intakes September start

Primary intake in September with January start available for some pathways through the INTO foundation program.

Accredited Industry recognized

Accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, meeting requirements for Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status.

Life at Dublin Business School in Ireland

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Higher Certificate in Sound Engineering and Music Production at Dublin Business School

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and 40 hours during breaks. No separate work permit is required, allowing for flexible earning opportunities while studying.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To enroll, you need an IELTS listening score of 5, an overall score of 5.5, and a minimum score of 5 in reading, speaking, and writing. Meeting these requirements ensures that you can engage effectively in the coursework.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as Sound Engineers, Music Producers, Live Sound Technicians, Acousticians, and Project Managers.

What will I actually study in this course?

This course focuses on key topics such as Studio and Recording Techniques and Music Technology. It provides students with essential industry knowledge and opportunities through collaborations with professionals.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The intake month for the Higher Certificate in Sound Engineering and Music Production is September. Make sure to apply in advance to secure your place in the program.
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