Masters Degrees (Music Technology)

The MA in Music Technology by Research is aimed at research-focused graduates with experience in music technology or audio engineering: both high level creators interested in composition, production and contemporary aesthetic approaches to audio, and those who wish to develop tools for other content composers, performers and analysts.

Overview

The Masters by Research course in Music Technology is aimed at meeting the needs of research-focused graduates with experience in music technology or audio engineering. This stream is specifically focused on developing, assessing and applying technology to current problems and questions in music practice and analysis. It is aimed at both high level creators interested in composition, production and contemporary aesthetic approaches to audio, and those who wish to develop tools for other content composers, performers and analysts. The course recognises that technology is applicable to many areas of musical endeavour, from creation to understanding, and may have many different forms of output including compositions, audio processing software, performance systems, studies of existing technologies etc. The Department has excellent facilities to support a wide range of research activities in this area.

Applicants should be able to articulate a clear research plan, stating its context and citing relevant existing work in the area as well as identifying the type(s) of outputs the research will generate.

Course structure

The MA in Music Technology by Research lasts one year for full-time study or two years for part-time study. Candidates may elect to apply to the MPhil/PhD programme subject to satisfactory completion of the MA by Research, though progression is not automatic. The submission of a final dissertation or portfolio of work is the product of a series of carefully-structured elements produced throughout the duration of the programme in conjunction with supervisory guidance.

Submission options

Submission by dissertation: A dissertation of between 30,000 and 40,000 words investigating the candidate's registered topic, accompanied by a comprehensive resource list of relevant materials (including software, production work, internet and audio-visual resources, etc. as relevant).

Submission by portfolio of compositions: A portfolio of between 3 and 5 technologically mediated compositions for any instrument, voice, ensemble, audio media or multi-media, as agreed with the candidate's supervisor and presented to a professional standard. Each composition will be supported by appropriate commentary of around 2,500 words, discussing the work, the process of composition and related details that situate the composition in a research context; a resource list of relevant materials(e.g. scholarly articles addressing relevant technical, aesthetic and/or cultural issues, software, audio productions, internet and audio-visual resources, etc.) will also be included. If the candidate has conducted substantial research that is not evident in the portfolio, the documentation may be longer.

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Overview

The MRes in Humanities offers students the opportunity to produce a substantial piece of independent research and writing, and to undertake wide-ranging, systematic training in research skills and project management. Students will write a dissertation in a specific field or prepare a portfolio of compositions, recital or a media project with a named supervisor.

Supervision is available in all disciplines where the School has expertise:
- American Studies
- English
- History
- Media, Communications and Culture
- Music and Music Technology
- Philosophy
- Russian

You will be able to develop your research topic within the context of current debates and methodologies in relevant disciplines and within the humanities generally. The course will develop practical, critical and analytical research skills that can be deployed in a variety of professional and intellectual contexts. The programme is tailored to your research and career plans, and we recommend that you contact us before making a formal application.

The MRes degree is intended for applicants who already have a clear dissertation project (or equivalent, e.g. composition portfolio, performance or software development plan). In liaison with the supervisor and discipline lead, a plan of work in semester 1 and 2 is agreed and serves as preparation for the project as well as assessed work in its own right.

When you submit your online application, please use your personal statement to describe the dissertation (or equivalent) project you intend to carry out (500-700 words). Include specific research questions and aims. What does the project intend to elucidate? Is any hypothesis proposed? How will the research be carried out (i.e. methodology)?

See the website https://www.keele.ac.uk/pgtcourses/humanitiesmres/

Music and Music Technology

Keele’s taught Masters of Research (M.Res.) degrees in Music or Music Technology offer students the opportunity to produce a substantial piece of independent research, under the supervision of specialised scholars, and to undertake wide-ranging, systematic training in research skills. Depending on the area of research chosen, students will plan, research and produce an extended dissertation, a composition portfolio, a recital or a music technology project. All students locate their specific topic within the context of relevant debates within their discipline and the humanities more generally. The course is an ideal preparation for students who wish to proceed to doctoral research, but also develops practical and critical skills that can be deployed in a variety of professional and intellectual contexts.

Course Aims

To enable students to research and write an extended dissertation, whilst developing practical, critical and analytical research skills that can be deployed in a variety of professional and intellectual contexts. Students will develop an understanding of the place of a specific research topic within current debates and methodologies in relevant disciplines, and within the humanities generally. The course will promote the ‘project management skills’ of defining and planning a project, meeting deadlines, and recording and reflecting on outcomes.

Course Content

Students follow a tailor-made programme, comprising three components totalling at least 180 credits.
- A 20,000 word dissertation (or equivalent composition or artistic production) is at the heart of the programme (90 credits).

- Research Training covering research skills and reflective practice in the humanities (2 x 15 = 30 credits).

- Research methods in the field relevant to the thesis topic (30 credits)

- Individual Research Orientation: a module tailored to the needs of the student (30 credits).

Teaching & Assessment

Assessment is by coursework, culminating in the 20,000 word dissertation (or the equivalent composition or artistic production). Research Training is assessed by a portfolio consisting of an annotated bibliography, a project outline and a reflective diary. Each of the other modules will be examined through a 4,000-5,000 word essay or approved equivalent.

The pass mark is 50%. A merit will be awarded where students obtain 60% or over for the dissertation (or equivalent project or performance) and an average of 60% on their other coursework. A distinction will be awarded where students obtain 70% or over for the dissertation, (or equivalent project or performance) and an average of 70% in their other coursework.

Additional Costs

Apart from additional costs for text books, inter-library loans and potential overdue library fines we do not anticipate any additional costs for this post graduate programme.

Discretionary Award:
A sum of £6,250 has been made available to students enrolling on taught postgraduate course in History by a former member of Keele staff. The money will be distributed at the discretion of the relevant programme director(s) and is available to students entering the programme in 2015 and/or 2016. No application is required.

Find information on Scholarships here - http://www.keele.ac.uk/studentfunding/bursariesscholarships/

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The MA Advanced Music Technology course aims to provide students with a higher level of understanding of the practical techniques and theory that underpin traditional and contemporary audio technology.

The course boasts an enviable range of studio facilities and staff who are actively engaged in the music industry. It focuses on cutting edge topics from ambient recording through advanced non-linear techniques, to the evolving arena of surround sound mixing and recording, and encompassing multi-media work and interface design. Graduates from the MA will enjoy an augmented skill-set that will place them at a distinct advantage upon entry into this fast paced, competitive and constantly evolving market place.

Course detail

The course is based in studios of fully professional specification, and students will work on both digital and analogue consoles with access to state-of-the-art Pro Tools systems with hi-end plug-ins, along with other advanced technology such as analogue modular synthesizers, Kyma and Ambisonics.

Modules

• Advanced Recording Techniques
• Digital Audio Interface Design for Music
• Developing your Career
• Research Methods
• Multi-track Recording and Mixing for Surround
• Interactive Music Technology
• Advanced Non-linear Recording
• Masters Level Project.

Format

Modules comprise a combination of lectures, workshops, seminars and tutorials. There are also masterclasses from staff, visiting lecturers and practitioners.

Assessment

We assess modules in a variety of ways. Written work is usually in the form of essays, critical self-reflections and learning journals. Practical assessment varies according to the nature of the practice - for example, DVDs for surround recordings, CDs for audio, and some live installations or electro-acoustic performances. There are often at least two assignments for each module. There are no exams currently in the MA Advanced Music Technology course.

How to apply

Click the following link for information on how to apply to this course: http://www.uwl.ac.uk/students/postgraduate/how-apply

Scholarships and bursaries

Information about scholarships and bursaries can be found here: http://www.uwl.ac.uk/students/postgraduate/scholarships-and-bursaries

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Immerse yourself in the technical and creative aspects of contemporary music technology.

This hands-on course will give you the opportunity to explore the skills, techniques and theory behind the tools and technologies used in the production and performance of electronic music and sonic art.

You will create interactive systems using Max/MSP, explore sensor-based interfaces and develop your expertise in sound creation, manipulation and composition. We have designed this course for those with a university or professional background in the field, as well as those experimenting with sound through composition, sonic art or technology.

You will benefit from a teaching team that is made up of internationally recognised technologists and artists and you will learn through a combination of practical projects and in-depth study.

Our high-quality facilities and equipment, regular visiting speakers from industry and our links to local and national music, arts and festival organisations will all help you get the most from the course.

- Research Excellence Framework 2014: our University demonstrated strength in five emerging areas of research which it entered into the assessment for the first time, including in music, drama, dance and performing arts.

Visit the website http://courses.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/musictech_msc

Mature Applicants

Our University welcomes applications from mature applicants who demonstrate academic potential. We usually require some evidence of recent academic study, for example completion of an access course, however recent relevant work experience may also be considered. Please note that for some of our professional courses all applicants will need to meet the specified entry criteria and in these cases work experience cannot be considered in lieu.

If you wish to apply through this route you should refer to our University Recognition of Prior Learning policy that is available on our website (http://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/studenthub/recognition-of-prior-learning.htm).

Please note that all applicants to our University are required to meet our standard English language requirement of GCSE grade C or equivalent, variations to this will be listed on the individual course entry requirements.

Careers

Your course will give you the skills to seek a career in music technology, interactive media or sonic arts practice, research or education. It also integrates well with the wider music and audio industries, giving you the expertise to get ahead in these competitive fields.

- Music Technician
- Sound Engineer
- Music Producer

Careers advice: The dedicated Jobs and Careers team offers expert advice and a host of resources to help you choose and gain employment. Whether you're in your first or final year, you can speak to members of staff from our Careers Office who can offer you advice from writing a CV to searching for jobs.

Visit the careers site - https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/employability/jobs-careers-support.htm

Course Benefits

You will have access to a suite of high quality, professional music studios, approved by JAMES, the accrediting body of the Music Producers' Guild and the Association of Professional Recording Services. This, combined with visiting speakers from the music industry and our links to local and national music, arts and festival organisations, ensures that you get the most from your course.

Core Modules

Live Performance Technologies
Gain the critical tools you need to understand and develop computer performance practice in the field of contemporary electronic music.

Interfaces & Interactivity
Consider a range of approaches to interactive and reactive system design, as you enhance your knowledge of key concepts, artistic approaches and technical skills.

Collaborative Practice
Experience the collaborative working environment and develop your skills in fulfilling complex briefs.

Creative Sound Design
Gain the knowledge and skills you need to develop audio-based artefacts in the fields of electro-acoustic music, sonic art and sound design.

Research Practice
Examine the methods and skills which are required in order to carry out research into the ideas and practice of music technology.

Negotiated Skills Development
Work closely with your tutors, researching and applying current theory and practice alongside a learning plan that meets your own aims and objectives.

Major Individual Project
This major project gives you the opportunity to engage in research and advanced practice in an area of your own choosing.

Option Modules

Electro-acoustic Music
Explore the techniques and methods employed in electro-acoustic composition and use those techniques and methods to create an original composition.

Orchestration, Arrangement & Programming
Study contemporary approaches to orchestration and arrangement of music for the moving image and create scores and MIDI realisations to a professional standard.

Sound, Music & Image
Evaluate the relationships between sound, music and image, and devise and create examples of audio-visual media to a professional standard.

Facilities

- Music Studios
"Being able to work in such good facilities gave me a buzz – I loved working in the studios." Piers of chart-topping, Mobo-nominated Rudimental

- Library
Our libraries are two of the only university libraries in the UK open 24/7 every day of the year. However you like to study, the libraries have got you covered with group study, silent study, extensive e-learning resources and PC suites.

- Broadcasting Place
Broadcasting Place provides students with creative and contemporary learning environments, is packed with the latest technology and is a focal point for new and innovative thinking in the city.

Find out how to apply here - http://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/postgraduate/how-to-apply/

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The MSc in Audio and Music Technology is a one-year full-time taught course for graduates who wish to enhance their skills to go on to a career or further research in the varied fields of audio processing, room acoustics, interactive music and audio applications, voice analysis and synthesis, audio programming and other music technology related areas.

The MSc is designed for:
-Graduates of courses in Music Technology or Tonmeister
-Graduates of courses in technology, mathematics, science, engineering or computing who can demonstrate music performance or music production skills
-Graduates of a related subject who can demonstrate an understanding of music theory/digital audio, skills in music production or performance and technical experience or an aptitude for the technical aspects of audio

The course aims to:
-Provide students with a thorough grounding in scientific theory and engineering techniques as applied to digital audio technology
-Develop an understanding of audio processing and acoustic analysis as it relates to speech, singing, music and room/environmental acoustics
-Provide practical experience of audio software programming in a variety of coding languages and a creative approach to audio analysis and synthesis
-Develop communication skills for academic and public engagement purposes, in a variety of writing styles, or for oral presentations

There is a particular emphasis on practical application of theoretical aspects of audio signal processing and acoustic analysis and the programme also helps students to develop other skills such as critical analysis and evaluation, synthesis of theory and practice, creative problem-solving, design and implementation and oral and written communication skills.

The course is also designed to enhance your employability and to prepare you for entering the world of work or research after graduation. Some of the ways we do this are:
-Personal Professional Practitioner module dedicated to enhancing your employability, self-promotion and transferable skills, whether you go on to work in industry or running your own business.
-Hands-on experience of event and project management including the opportunity to design and deliver two events on campus.
-Project Development module furthers your skills in promoting your work/research to the public, presenting to an audience and developing a project plan.
-A substantial piece of individual research or development project, which you undertake over the summer under supervision from a staff member.
-Student section of the Audio Engineering Society regularly runs events with external speakers from the industry - a chance to network with the professionals.
-Group work in some modules allowing you to put your team work and management skills into practice.

Facilities

The course is supported by a wide range of facilities including:
-Three recording studios and Digital Audio Workstation production rooms
-Dedicated listening space with surround sound loudspeaker array
-6-sided anechoic chamber
-Newly equipped Mac Workstation suite specifically for audio app development
-State-of-the art equipment for voice analysis and synthesis
-The opportunity to access audio facilities across campus including the 3Sixty (immersive audio visual space) and the Arthur Sykes Rymer Auditorium (Music Research Centre) as availability allows

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The Master of Music in Music Education (Music Technology Option) is designed to provide certification in music technology as recommended by Technology in Music Education (Ti:ME). To complete requirements for the degree and TI:ME certification requires a ten credit hour concentration (10):

• MUE 591 (3) Introduction to Notation, Sequencing, and Electronic Instruments
• MUE 592 (3) Introduction to Internet, Multimedia, and Computer Assisted Instruction
• MUE 598 (3) Curricular Integration of Music Technology
• MUE 593 (3) Notation or MUE 594 (2) Sequencing
• MUE 595 (3) Interactive Internet or MUE 596 (3) Multimedia Authoring or MUE 597 (3) Digital Media

All students in M.M. programs in music education also must complete a comprehensive exit examination.  Students not holding Level I Certification in music education must complete prerequisite undergraduate work prior to admission into a graduate program that requires Level I Certification.

Please visit the website for more information about the course curriculum:

http://catalog.wcupa.edu/graduate/school-of-music/music-education/music-education-mm-music-technology-concentration/

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This course will be held at the Medway Campus

https://www.kent.ac.uk/locations/medway/

The MA in Music Technology focuses on the use, development and implementation of technology within the wider musical context, exploring issues such as interactivity, audio programming, sound spatialisation and multimedia. Modules include Programming and Production Techniques and a Music Technology project.

The University of Kent has invested over £5 million in the School of Music and Fine Art, to provide you with the best possible study and research environment. A number of historic buildings in the atmospheric Chatham Historic Dockyard have been renovated to provide a new range of professional standard facilities. Our new specialist facilities include a large recording studio, a Foley recording space, surround-sound studio and post-production rooms. All have been designed to the highest standard in order to provide an excellent environment for postgraduate work.

Visit the website: https://www.kent.ac.uk/courses/postgraduate/155/music-technology

Course detail

Work is developed through individual enquiry as well as sharing and critiquing ideas through group seminars, designed to provide a forum for debate as well as practical instruction. There will also be significant opportunity for collaborative and interdisciplinary work taking into account other arts subjects at Medway and Canterbury.

Purpose

All MA programmes are designed to provide knowledge and skills in practice-based research, as well as giving you experience of current research practices in various areas of critical and analytical thinking.

Format and assessment

You take common modules in research methods and postgraduate study skills, while giving you the opportunity to foster your subject skills in specialist modules. Work is developed through individual enquiry as well as sharing and critiquing ideas through group seminars, designed to provide a forum for debate as well as practical instruction.

There will also be significant opportunity for collaborative and interdisciplinary work taking into account other subjects within the School of Music and Fine Art.

Assessment is by a range of coursework, including individual projects, skills-based tasks, seminar presentations and written work.

Careers

A postgraduate degree in the area of music and audio arts is a valuable and flexible qualification, which can lead to career opportunities within the creative industries, music recording and production, audio software development, sound for film, composition and academic careers.

These possibilities are augmented by work in video games, the Internet, live sound for theatres and festivals, audio installations for museums, sonic arts and computer music. Postgraduates interested in a research career are supported by the University’s Graduate School Research Development Programme. The University’s Employability Weeks can also provide valuable support in terms of planning future careers.

How to apply: https://www.kent.ac.uk/courses/postgraduate/apply/

Why study at The University of Kent?

- Shortlisted for University of the Year 2015
- Kent has been ranked fifth out of 120 UK universities in a mock Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) exercise modelled by Times Higher Education (THE).
- In the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2014, Kent was ranked 17th* for research output and research intensity, in the Times Higher Education, outperforming 11 of the 24 Russell Group universities
- Over 96% of our postgraduate students who graduated in 2014 found a job or further study opportunity within six months.
Find out more: https://www.kent.ac.uk/courses/postgraduate/why/

Postgraduate scholarships and funding

We have a scholarship fund of over £9 million to support our taught and research students with their tuition fees and living costs. Find out more: https://www.kent.ac.uk/scholarships/postgraduate/

English language learning

If you need to improve your English before and during your postgraduate studies, Kent offers a range of modules and programmes in English for Academic Purposes (EAP). Find out more here: https://www.kent.ac.uk/courses/postgraduate/international/english.html

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Develop a deep understanding of the technologies and principles behind modern music production and distribution. Learn advanced recording techniques, acoustics, mastering, digital sound synthesis, music software development and sound design.

“The MSc Music Technology has been a hugely enriching experience for me. The staff are enthusiastic and passionate about their fields and the richness of resources available is quite stunning.” Nick McCabe, Guitarist: Black Submarine, The Verve.

MSc Music Technology students benefit from superb resources including flagship recording and mixing studio with SSL AWS 900. We are also an Avid Learning Partner, so students have an opportunity to take Pro Tools Accreditation up to Avid 210M.

Taught modules include:
-Audio Recording
-Mastering and Signal processing
-Acoustics
-Modern Composition
-Advanced Pro Tools Techniques
-Electronics
-Electroacoustic Composition

Graduate destinations

Excellent destinations for graduates. Just some of the routes taken by our students after graduating:
-Software engineering (SSL)
-Environmental acoustics (RPS Group Acoustic Consultants, Hann Tucker Associates)
-Education
-Live sound
-Film sound

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Overview

The course is creativity-driven, with emphasis on musical aspects of computer programming and audio technology. It offers full use of computer resources at the Music Technology Labs at Maynooth University; access to studio space, with the possibility of working towards recording and production projects; expert advice on musical and technical issues is provided by composers and researchers at the cutting edge of their fields.

See the website https://www.maynoothuniversity.ie/music/our-courses/postgraduate-diploma-music-technology

Course Structure

The course is structured around a number of options covering all aspects of Music Technology from acoustics to computer programming, including audio signal processing, synthesis and recording engineering. Foreign language instruction is also available through the Maynooth University Language Centre. Modules include Software Sound Synthesis, Sound Recording Techniques, Music Systems Programming and a Music Recording Project.

Career Options

Teaching; Music industry; recording; production; composition; software programming an multimedia design; radio production; music education.

How To Apply

Online application only http://www.pac.ie/maynoothuniversity

PAC Code

MHT58 Full-time

The following information should be forwarded to PAC, 1 Courthouse Square, Galway or uploaded to your online application form:

Certified copies of all official transcripts of results for all non-Maynooth University qualifications listed MUST accompany the application. Failure to do so will delay your application being processed. Non-Maynooth University students are asked to provide two academic references and a copy of birth certificate or valid passport.

Find information on Scholarships here https://www.maynoothuniversity.ie/study-maynooth/postgraduate-studies/fees-funding-scholarships

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Overview

The course is creativity-driven, with emphasis on musical aspects of computer programming and audio technology. It offers full use of computer resources at the Music Technology Labs at Maynooth University; access to studio space, with the possibility of working towards recording and production projects; expert advice on musical and technical issues is provided by composers and researchers at the cutting edge of their fields.

See the website https://www.maynoothuniversity.ie/music/our-courses/postgraduate-diploma-music-technology-0

Course Structure

The course is structured around a number of options covering all aspects of Music Technology from acoustics to computer programming, including audio signal processing, synthesis and recording engineering. Foreign language instruction is also available through the Maynooth University Language Centre. Modules include Music Recording Project, Software Sound Synthesis, Sound Recording Techniques and Music Systems Programming.

Career Options

Teaching; Music industry; recording; production; composition; software programming an multimedia design; radio production; music education.

How To Apply

Online application only http://www.pac.ie/maynoothuniversity

PAC Code
MHT59 Part-time

The following information should be forwarded to PAC, 1 Courthouse Square, Galway or uploaded to your online application form:

Certified copies of all official transcripts of results for all non-Maynooth University qualifications listed MUST accompany the application. Failure to do so will delay your application being processed. Non-Maynooth University students are asked to provide two academic references and a copy of birth certificate or valid passport.

Find information on Scholarships here https://www.maynoothuniversity.ie/study-maynooth/postgraduate-studies/fees-funding-scholarships

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This program is designed for in-service music educators who wish to upgrade their skills in music technology and apply the materials, musicianship skills, and methodologies in a focused program to enhance music learning in all facets of the music curriculum, yet who do not wish to undertake a full master's degree curriculum.

Learning Outcomes

• Content and Pedagogical Specialist: Knows learners, subject matter, and curriculum.
• Assessment and Instructional Designer: Constructs effective learning experiences/outcomes assessments.
• Classroom Community Builder and Diversity Advocate: Values diversity and community in the classroom through practice.
• School and Community Professional: Applies knowledge of the context of education and engages in collaborative activities, partnerships, service, and advocacy.
• Self-Directed Practitioner: Directs personal growth, professional practice, and reflective practice.

Curriculum

Core modules:

• MUE 591 Intro Notation, Sequencing & Elec Inst
• MUE 592 Intro CAI, Multimedia and Internet
• MUE 598 Integrating Music Tech in Classroom
• MUE 593 Notation for Music Educators

PLUS one from:

• MUE 596 Multimedia Authoring Mus Ed
• MUE 597 Digital Media for Music Educators

PLUS

• One Music Technology elective worth 3 credits.

Please see the website for more detailed information about these modules:

http://catalog.wcupa.edu/general-information/index-course-prefix-guide/course-index/graduate/mue/

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The Department offers the MSc in Electronic Engineering by Research and the MSc in Music Technology by Research degree programmes.

The MSc by Research is a one year full-time programme (two years part-time) based on a research project which may be in any area of staff expertise. As a member of one of the Department’s research groups you will be supervised on a one-to-one basis by a member of academic staff. The award of the degree is made following the submission and successful examination of a thesis. Progress is monitored in the same way as for other research degrees by a Thesis Advisory Panel.

Students undertaking the MSc by Research are also encouraged to take advanced taught courses in Electronics which might help fill gaps in their background knowledge for their research project topic. The choice of courses taken will be made together with the supervisor, at the beginning of the programme.

Facilities

All full-time postgraduate research students are allocated a desk space in the department with a new PC (with 2 screens) for the duration of their full-time programme. Dependent on their project, students might also use some of the department's other facilities, including NAMAS-accredited EMC measurement facilities, Clean Room, well-equipped music and media technology suites, anechoic chambers, BioWall, Robot Lab and specialised software for FPGA design.

MSc by Research or Taught MSc?

View this web-page for a direct comparison of a MSc by Research and a Taught MSc: https://www.york.ac.uk/electronics/postgraduate/research_degrees/msc_research/#tab-4

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The MPhil and PhD degree programmes enable students to study a chosen area of research with leading researchers in the Department. These degrees are awarded in either Electronic Engineering or Music Technology following the successful submission of a thesis and subsequent oral examination. The MPhil degree is a two-year full-time or four-year part-time programme. The PhD degree is a three year full-time or six year part-time programme.

All PhD and MPhil students are subject to formal reviews of progress. The purpose of formal reviews of progress is to ensure that students are making satisfactory progress with their research project and other elements of their PhD or MPhil programme. In addition, PhD students are required to give a 3 minute presentation in their first year, submit a poster in their second year and present a seminar on their research work to the Department during their third year. The overall intention is to give research students the opportunity to develop both oral and written communications skills which are essential in a modern engineering environment. The progress of all research students is continually guided by a supervisor and a thesis advisory panel.

Students often have the opportunity to present their work at UK and overseas conferences and their work is frequently published in international journals. The department provides a conference travel fund to enable each PhD student to attend an international conference to present their work, during their period of registration with us. Students apply to the fund with their supervisor.

Facilities

All full-time postgraduate research students are allocated a desk space in the department with a new PC (with 2 screens) for the duration of their full-time programme. Dependent on their project, students might also use some of the department's other facilities, including NAMAS-accredited EMC measurement facilities, Clean Room, well-equipped music and media technology suites, anechoic chambers, BioWall, Robot Lab and specialised software for FPGA design.

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Taking the science of musical sound as your focus, you’ll work in a cross-disciplinary environment, using theoretical and experimental work to explore the musical, technical and multimedia applications of acoustics and audio technology.

The programme aims to:

• Provide a broadly based, scientifically oriented foundation in the area of music, acoustics and audio technology
• Develop skills in research, computation, design and analytical problem-solving
• Create a multidisciplinary learning environment that will prepare the student for careers in which a strong understanding of music/audio technology is required
• Develop an ability to appreciate, understand and develop the creative potential of sound design

The emphasis of this programme is on science and technology in the context of musical and multimedia applications. 

Programme structure

The MSc is taught by a combination of lectures, seminars, tutorials and practical work. Courses are assessed through a combination of report submissions and written examinations. In the final three months, you will carry out an individual project, which is assessed by submission of a dissertation.

Learning outcomes

Students who successfully complete this cross-disciplinary programme will develop skills in the area of music, acoustics and audio technology.

Graduates will have a thorough understanding of the appropriate technologies and the science underlying them, as well as an understanding of their role in a wider creative arts environment.

Career opportunities

A knowledge of the science behind music and music production can prove a great asset in your career. Qualified technicians and producers are in demand in all areas of music, as are acoustic scientists. The programme will provide you with the perfect foundation for further study if you’d prefer to continue on an academic path. The highly transferable skills you’ll gain in communication and project management will also take you further up whichever career ladder you choose to climb.

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Aims

Music Technology is a rapidly evolving field of study with a diverse and expanding range of possibilities.

The MSc in Audio Technology is designed to go beyond the simple provision of training, and to instead enable you to engage with current debates and actively participate in some of the most vibrant areas of contemporary research.

Throughout the course you will be encouraged to demonstrate self-direction and autonomy as you critically explore and define your position within the wider field. One overarching aim is that you should leave the course as not only an adept user of various hardware and software technologies, but as someone able to actively shape and develop their own, responding as necessary to future developments.

Thus, in addition to developing your theoretical and methodological understanding, the MSc in Audio Technology features a strong emphasis on practical work in a number of different (but related) areas. For example, you will study modules in Advanced Studio Practice, Sound on Screen, Music Computing and Musical Human-Computer Interaction. These are supported by a technology-orientated Research and Development module that provides robust foundation for the final Audio Technology Project.

Acting as summary of all that you have learned and a portfolio going forward, the Audio Technology Project provides an opportunity to plan and execute a substantial project in an area of personal specialism or interest. Innovative projects are encouraged, and there exists the potential for interdisciplinary and/or collaboration with practitioners in other fields.

Fees and finance

2015/6 Home/EU International
Full time £5,750 £11,960
Part time £2,875

These fees are applicable for new entrants in 2015/6. Fees are for the academic year only, any subsequent years may be subject to an annual increase, usually in line with inflation.

The University also offers a postgraduate loyalty discount: If you have completed an undergraduate degree at the University of Wolverhampton, you may be eligible for a 20% discount on the first year of a taught postgraduate programme.

Employability

The course will actively equip both graduates and those already in industry with a diverse range of skills to enhance their career prospects. It will also develop a range of opportunities for experience and employment in areas such as studio recording, media production and content creation, video game and software development, education (FE/HE), research assistantships/studentships, and employment in HE institutions.

In addition to subject-specific practical skills, you will also acquire a range of transferable skills relevant for pursuing a research degree. These include critical, analytical, project management and research skills from the study of a broad spectrum of literature, research, and external projects.

Outcomes

- Demonstrate knowledge and critical understanding of a variety of issues in the expanded field of contemporary music technology, taking an independent and rounded perspective.
- Apply theoretical discourse relating to aspects such as technologised production and performance, reactive/interactive/non-linear media, and computational creativity (etc.) to practice through a systematic understanding of historical, contextual, philosophical, technical and scientific theory.
- Select, interpret, develop and apply a variety of research methodologies appropriate for their work.
- Critically evaluate and use a wide variety of hardware and software technologies, and, where appropriate, develop their own.
- Exercise personal autonomy in learning through effective self-organisation and management of workload in both individual and group scenarios.
- Understand the possibilities afforded by the contemporary, expanded field of music technology (including its gaps and trends), and be able to position their own work, interests and aspirations within this wider context.

Why Wolverhampton?

The course offers an explicit and concerted move away from the notion of “training” in how to use specific software and/or other music technologies in favour of a more balanced synthesis of theory and practice.

The proposal for the Audio Technology Project is developed in the Research and Development module, providing time and opportunity to consider the project’s direction thoroughly, and to explore possibilities for collaborative/interdisciplinary working.

Course staff specialise in both traditional/well-established areas of music technology (studio production, film sound, audio synthesis and processing) and flourishing areas of contemporary research (musical interaction, generative music).

A wide range of career routes are open to graduates of the course. These are largely dependent upon the nature of the work the student chooses to produce, but may include: studio production, sound for games and film/video/animation, interactive media, interaction design, creative software development, design for music technology, post-compulsory and higher education.

The University of Wolverhampton continues to develop state of the art facilities to greatly enhance your learning experience. The Performance Hub, opened in 2011, has a diverse range of fully equipped music teaching, performance and practice rooms (accommodating single person to large band / ensemble), two high-end professional recording studios, and two bespoke technology suites boasting sixty Apple iMacs running industry standard software including Pro Tools, Logic Pro, Max, Pure Data and SuperCollider.

Our two recording studios offer the perfect blend of digital and analogue technologies giving students the opportunity to combine classic analogue recording technique with the flexibility and reliability digital technology provides. As well as a dedicated live room each for recording, for increased flexibility and choice of room acoustic, any of the music rehearsal rooms surrounding each studio can also be patched into the studio's control room.

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