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Postgraduate MA
Sound Design
If you’re new to the field or already working in industry, this course will foster your talent and develop your skills in planning, creation and manipulation of audio soundtracks.
Course Overview
-
L27 -
City Campus -
Full-Time -
1 Year -
18 Sep 2023
With a focus on sound design for film and television, this course will allow you to explore the capture of on-location production sound and studio-based post-production activity.
As part of this course, you’ll:
- Create soundtracks for live action film and animation for a variety of platforms and contexts
- Engage with film and sound studies theory
- Develop technical and practical skills in the area of composition and post-production
- Collaborate and negotiate with fellow music students as well as with peers in the wider school including film, dance and performance
- Have the opportunity to apply your skills and knowledge to sound production for radio and podcasting
Hands-on experience
You’ll be guided by a highly skilled teaching team as well as visiting professionals with extensive industry experience. Through close ties with the university’s Northern Film School, you’ll have opportunities to collaborate with fellow students at all stages of the filmmaking process – including shooting, editing and post-production.
This hands-on experience will be complemented by academic and practical studies in sound design.
Creative exploration
The brand-new Leeds School of Arts building features a wealth of outstanding specialist facilities. You’ll have use of professional-grade studios dedicated to foley and surround mixing including Dolby Atmos. You’ll also 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
- A 220-seat Dolby Atmos-accredited cinema
- Additional performance spaces
Access to these spaces plus links with local and national music, arts and festival organisations, will provide you with plenty of opportunities to share your work with audiences.
Why study Sound Design at Leeds Beckett University...
- Work with professional artists on our artist in residence programme
- Links with local and national music, arts and festival organisations
- Opportunities to practise the skills you are developing in a live setting
- Collaborate with MA Filmmaking students on all stages of the filmmaking process, including shooting, editing and post-production
- Study within Leeds School of Arts - one of the largest university arts communities in the north
- Access to dedicated music studios; Foley studios; dubbing and music recording studios; acoustic labs and a host of post-production suites
Leeds School of Arts ‘When I feel like I’m sinking’ is a poem to mark the opening of the Leeds School of Arts building at Leeds Beckett University. Recited by the poet and Leeds Beckett graduate, Zodwa Nyoni, this short film showcases the creative work produced by our Performing Arts, Music and Sound, Filmmaking, and Creative Technologies students and graduates.
Everything you need to know
Discover all there is to know about the course, from entry requirements and fees to exploring the school you’ll be joining - we’ve got it covered.
Entry requirements
Applicants should either have at least a second class honours degree in the cognate subjects of Music Production, Film Production or Audio Technology, at least a second class honours degree in a non-cognate subject supported by evidence of an aptitude for the subject applied for, or have equivalent experience or training, normally from within the work environment.
You should include reference to the following areas in your supporting statement:
- Why you want to study MA Sound Design at Leeds Beckett University.
- What film and television (and/or radio and podcasts) inspire you to want to work in the industry and why
- Talk about a recent example that shows how passionate you are about sound design for film and television (and/or radio and podcasts) – so the design of all elements of a soundtrack except music
- Talk about a book or article you have recently read that gave you a real insight into sound for film and television (and/or radio and podcasts)
All suitable candidates will be required to submit a portfolio prior to acceptance on the course. Please include in your supporting information a link for us to download the following: a showreel of around two minutes in length that evidences your skills as a sound designer for film, TV, radio and/or other media forms. Using film as an example, your showreel could contain clips from films you have been part of the production of and/or pre-existing films you have re-soundtracked. You should accompany this showreel with a pdf document that details what each of the works presented in the showreel are and what your contribution to them has been.
All applications should be supported by a reference, either academic or professional; you can download our reference template for completion. All applicants should satisfy our University English language requirements.Entry requirements
Applicants should either have at least a second class honours degree in the cognate subjects of Music Production, Film Production or Audio Technology, at least a second class honours degree in a non-cognate subject supported by evidence of an aptitude for the subject applied for, or have equivalent experience or training, normally from within the work environment.
You should include reference to the following areas in your supporting statement:
- Why you want to study MA Sound Design at Leeds Beckett University.
- What film and television (and/or radio and podcasts) inspire you to want to work in the industry and why
- Talk about a recent example that shows how passionate you are about sound design for film and television (and/or radio and podcasts) – so the design of all elements of a soundtrack except music
- Talk about a book or article you have recently read that gave you a real insight into sound for film and television (and/or radio and podcasts)
All suitable candidates will be required to submit a portfolio prior to acceptance on the course. Please include in your supporting information a link for us to download the following: a showreel of around two minutes in length that evidences your skills as a sound designer for film, TV, radio and/or other media forms. Using film as an example, your showreel could contain clips from films you have been part of the production of and/or pre-existing films you have re-soundtracked. You should accompany this showreel with a pdf document that details what each of the works presented in the showreel are and what your contribution to them has been.
All applications should be supported by a reference, either academic or professional; you can download our reference template for completion. All applicants should satisfy our University English language requirements.International baccalaureate
Portfolio Required
All suitable candidates will be required to submit a portfolio prior to acceptance on the course. Please send a link for us to download the following: a showreel of around two minutes in length that evidences your skills as a sound designer for film, TV, radio and/or other media forms. Using film as an example, your showreel could contain clips from films you have been part of the production of and/or pre-existing films you have re-soundtracked. Please accompany this showreel with a pdf document that details what each of the works presented in the showreel are and what your contribution to them has been.
IELTS
IELTS 6.0 with no skills below 5.5, or an equivalent qualification. The University provides excellent support for any applicant who may be required to undertake additional English language courses.
Selection Criteria
We may use selection criteria based on your personal attributes; experience and/or commitment to the area of study. This information will be derived from your personal statement and reference and will only be used if you have met the general entry requirements.
Mature Applicants:
Our university welcomes applications from mature applicants who demonstrate academic potential. If you have recent relevant work experience and/or professional qualifications, we may be able to consider you for entry through our ‘Recognition of Prior Learning’ policy. Please ensure that you list both your qualifications and relevant work experience in your application.
All applicants should meet our standard entry requirements of GCSE grade C in English language and, where specified, Maths. Alternative qualifications such as functional skills are accepted in lieu of GCSEs for most courses.
Independent study is a crucial part of learning at university and you will be required to undertake many hours of self-directed research and reading, and preparation and writing of assessments. Your course is delivered through a number of modules, which will help you to plan your time and establish a study routine. Outside of your lectures, workshops and tutorials, a range of support is available to assist with your independent study. Our subject-specific librarians will be on hand to direct you to the specialist learning and study-skill resources. You’ll also be assigned an academic advisor to give you tailored feedback and support.
Our silver status in the latest Teaching Excellence Framework, reflects our commitment to deliver high-quality teaching, learning and outcomes for our students.
Teaching & Learning
What you'll learn
This module aims to equip you with the theory and the techniques for recording and mixing sound for film, television and radio.
Develop a practical understanding of the creative possibilities of the studio environment through the creation of a musical product.
Experience the collaborative working environment and develop your skills in fulfilling complex briefs.
Work closely with your tutors, researching and applying current theory and practice alongside a learning plan that meets your own aims and objectives.
Develop your understanding and critical awareness of audio visual practices and enhance your practical skills in the application of sound in a range of audio visual contexts, from sonic design for moving image, to generative and installation contexts.
Examine the methods and skills which are required in order to carry out research into the ideas and practice of music technology.
This major project gives you the opportunity to engage in research and advanced practice in an area of your own choosing.
What you'll learn
Explore the relationships between sound, music and image as you devise and create examples of audio-visual media to a professional standard.
Gain comprehensive knowledge of a range of spatial audio systems, from commercial entertainment systems through to ambisonics and diffusion systems and investigate how these can be used for the presentation of spatial sound.
Fees & Funding hellooo
£9,000
UK
The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2023/24 is £9000. The amount you will pay may increase each year to take into account the effects of inflation.
£16,000
International 2023
The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2023/24 is £16000. The amount you will pay is fixed at this level for each year of your course.
Fees & Funding
£9,000
For students entering in 2023
The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2023/24 is £9000. The amount you will pay may increase each year to take into account the effects of inflation.
Additional course costs
Tuition Fees
Your tuition fees cover the cost of registration, tuition, academic supervision, assessments and examinations.
The following are also included in the cost of your course:
- 24/7 Library and student IT support
- Free wifi via eduroam
- Skills workshops and resources
- Library membership, giving access to more than 500,000 printed, multimedia and digital resources
- Access to software, including five free copies of Microsoft Office 365 to install on your PC,laptop and MAC, and access to free high-end software via the Leeds Beckett remote app
- Loan of high-end media equipment to support your studies
Access to course resources, equipment and facilities, including:
- Studio equipment and facilities, including specialist music and recording studios with control room and live area for instruments and amps, plus mixing facilities and editing suites
- Free entry to Inside/Out guest lecture series
In many cases, costs associated with your course will be included in your course fee. However, in some cases there are ‘essential’ additional costs (those that you will be required to meet in addition to your course fee), and/or ‘optional’ additional costs (costs that are not required, but that you might choose to pay). We have included those essential or optional additional costs that relate to your course, below.
Essential Costs
- Headphones (£50-150)
- External hard drive (£60)
- Website build (£0-50)
- Access to a suitable computer, DAW software and audio interface to be able to work independently at times off campus (£500-1500)
Other study-related expenses to consider: materials that you will need to complete your course such as books (whilst the library provides access to readings recommended for your modules, you may wish to purchase your own copies of some books); you can also make suggestions for books to be added to Library stock; placement costs (these may include travel expenses and living costs); student visas (international students only); printing, photocopying and stationery (you may need to pay for multiple copies of your dissertation or final project to be printed and bound); events associated with your course such as field trips; study abroad opportunities (travel costs and accommodation, visas and immunisations). Other costs could include academic conferences (travel costs) and professional-body membership (where applicable). The costs you will need to cover for graduation will include gown hire and guest tickets, and optional extras such as professional photography.
As well as your mobile phone, you will also need access to a desktop computer and/or laptop to complete assignments and access university online services such as MyBeckett, your virtual learning environment. You can book and borrow AV equipment through the media equipment service accessed online via the student hub and located in the library at each campus. Equipment includes: 360 Cameras, iPads, GoPros, MacBooks, portable data projectors, portable projection screens, flipchart stands, remote presenters, digital cameras and camcorders, SLR cameras, speakers, microphones, headphones, headsets, tripods, digital audio recorders and PC/laptops (a laptop loans service is provided on campus in the library on both campuses). Student laptops are also available from the laptop lockers located in the libraries.
This list is not exhaustive, costs are approximate and will vary depending on the choices you make during your course. Any rental, travel or living costs are also in addition to your course fees. If you choose to study via distance learning, you may not be able to access all of the facilities listed if you are not able to visit us on campus.
£16,000
For students entering in 2023
The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2023/24 is £16000. The amount you will pay is fixed at this level for each year of your course.
Additional course costs
Tuition Fees
Your tuition fees cover the cost of registration, tuition, academic supervision, assessments and examinations.
The following are also included in the cost of your course:
- 24/7 Library and student IT support
- Free wifi via eduroam
- Skills workshops and resources
- Library membership, giving access to more than 500,000 printed, multimedia and digital resources
- Access to software, including five free copies of Microsoft Office 365 to install on your PC,laptop and MAC, and access to free high-end software via the Leeds Beckett remote app
- Loan of high-end media equipment to support your studies
In many cases, costs associated with your course will be included in your course fee. However, in some cases there are ‘essential’ additional costs (those that you will be required to meet in addition to your course fee), and/or ‘optional’ additional costs (costs that are not required, but that you might choose to pay). We have included those essential or optional additional costs that relate to your course, below.
Access to course resources, equipment and facilities, including:
- Studio equipment and facilities, including specialist music and recording studios with control room and live area for instruments and amps, plus mixing facilities and editing suites
- Free entry to Inside/Out guest lecture series
Essential Costs
- Headphones (£50-150)
- External hard drive (£60)
- Website build (£0-50)
- Access to a suitable computer, DAW software and audio interface to be able to work independently at times off campus (£500-1500)
Other study-related expenses to consider: materials that you will need to complete your course such as books (whilst the library provides access to readings recommended for your modules, you may wish to purchase your own copies of some books); you can also make suggestions for books to be added to Library stock; placement costs (these may include travel expenses and living costs); student visas (international students only); printing, photocopying and stationery (you may need to pay for multiple copies of your dissertation or final project to be printed and bound); events associated with your course such as field trips; study abroad opportunities (travel costs and accommodation, visas and immunisations). Other costs could include academic conferences (travel costs) and professional-body membership (where applicable). The costs you will need to cover for graduation will include gown hire and guest tickets, and optional extras such as professional photography.
As well as your mobile phone, you will also need access to a desktop computer and/or laptop to complete assignments and access university online services such as MyBeckett, your virtual learning environment. You can book and borrow AV equipment through the media equipment service accessed online via the student hub and located in the library at each campus. Equipment includes: 360 Cameras, iPads, GoPros, MacBooks, portable data projectors, portable projection screens, flipchart stands, remote presenters, digital cameras and camcorders, SLR cameras, speakers, microphones, headphones, headsets, tripods, digital audio recorders and PC/laptops (a laptop loans service is provided on campus in the library on both campuses). Student laptops are also available from the laptop lockers located in the libraries.
This list is not exhaustive, costs are approximate and will vary depending on the choices you make during your course. Any rental, travel or living costs are also in addition to your course fees. If you choose to study via distance learning, you may not be able to access all of the facilities listed if you are not able to visit us on campus.
MA Sound Design Explore the creative and technical aspects of location sound, studio sound production and sound design.
Anechoic Chamber Music and Sound students at Leeds School of Arts use the Anechoic chamber to analyse the design characteristics of audio equipment, and for psychoacoustic testing to determine peoples perception of sounds.
Audio Lab Music and Sound students work with test equipment such as the Kemar dummy in a state-of-the-art audio lab at Leeds School of Arts.
Reverb Chamber Music and Sound students at Leeds School of Arts use omnidirectional sound sources in the reverb chamber to measure absorption and reverberation.
Your future in our hands
There’s a lot to consider when choosing a course. Take a look at the team you’ll be working with, employability statistics and career prospects to help make up your mind.
Postgraduate Music | Leeds Beckett University Martin Briggs talks about our range of Postgraduate Music Courses and the university’s approach to teaching
Career Prospects
A range of job roles in the creative and media industries will be available to you on completion of your course. They include foley editor and re-recording mixer as well as:
- Dialogue editor
- Location recordist
- Sound designer
- Sound editor
Beckett Careers Team
Our careers service is not just there for undergraduates, we support our postgraduate taught and research students too.
Your postgraduate degree will boost your CV and help you stand out from the crowd. Whether you're just starting out on your chosen career path, changing careers or moving to the next level, we can provide you with expert advice and resources to help you take the next steps to achieving your goals.
Your Beckett experience
At Leeds Beckett your experience is important to us, find out more about what to expect from your time on this course and life at uni.
Leeds School of Arts | music and sound facilities Find out more about our industry-standard music and sound facilities.
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Experience Leeds Beckett
Our state-of-the-art facilities and learning environments give you everything you need to succeed – whether that’s completing your current studies or joining our cutting-edge research teams.
