Why Leeds?
With great music venues, culture, shopping, and parks - we've got it all. Leeds city centre has been named one of the Best Places to Live in the UK*.
*The Sunday Times Best Places to Live Guide, 2026
Leeds Beckett University - City Campus,
Woodhouse Lane,
LS1 3HE
BOOK AN OPEN DAY
To find out more about postgraduate courses, talk to academic staff, and explore finance options, join us for our Postgraduate Open Evening on Wednesday 18 November 2026.
Postgraduate MA
Sound Design
Develop your creative and technical expertise in sound design, from location recording to post-production, foley, mixing, and soundtrack creation.
Course overview
-
L27 -
City Campus -
Full-Time -
1 Year -
20 Sep 2027
Shape sound, tell stories
Sound can make your heart race, build suspense, transport you to another world, or completely change the way you experience a story. On this course, you’ll explore the creative and technical possibilities of sound design primarily for film and television. You’ll develop the skills to capture, create, and manipulate sound from location recording through to studio-based post-production.
By experimenting with sound and collaborating with other creatives, you’ll explore ideas and techniques that shape contemporary sound design. Along the way, you’ll build the confidence and practical expertise to develop your own creative voice and bring stories to life through sound.
As part of this course, you’ll:
- Create soundtracks for live-action film and animation across a variety of platforms and contexts
- Engage with film and sound studies theory to inform your creative practice
- Develop technical and practical skills in composition and post-production
- Collaborate and negotiate with fellow music students and peers across Leeds School of Arts, including those studying film, dance, and performance
- Apply your skills to sound production for different formats, including radio, podcasting, and more
Hands-on learning
Sound is at the heart of every production, and you’ll learn by getting stuck in. You’ll be guided by a highly skilled teaching team alongside visiting professionals with extensive industry experience, giving you insights into current practices and the realities of working in the creative industries.
Collaborate, create
Through our close links with the Northern Film School, you’ll have opportunities to collaborate with fellow students throughout the filmmaking process, from shooting and through to post-production and editing. You’ll work as a part of creative teams, responding to the demands of different projects, and learning how sound can transform a production.
Impressive facilities for creative experimentation
Our modern Leeds School of Arts building gives you access to outstanding specialist facilities designed to support ambitious creative practice. You’ll work in dedicated spaces for foley and surround mixing, including Dolby Atmos, alongside:
- High quality, professional music studios equipped with the latest industry-standard technology
- A 220-seat Dolby Atmos-accredited cinema
- Additional performance and creative spaces
These facilities give you the freedom to experiment with sound, refine your craft, and bring your ideas to life in a professional environment that’s ideally suited to studying a sound design course.
Be part of a growing industry
The UK is one of the world’s leading exporters of music, with the sector supporting more than 220,000 jobs and contributing around £8 billion to the UK economy*. As the sector continues to grow, so does the demand for talented people who can create, shape, and deliver outstanding sound. On Leeds Beckett’s sound design master’s, you’ll develop the creative, technical, and collaborative skills to be part of this exciting industry.
Why study the MA Sound Design degree at Leeds Beckett University?
- Collaborate with filmmakers – work alongside Northern Film School students throughout the filmmaking process, from shooting to post-production and editing
- Choose how you study – study full-time or part-time within Leeds School of Arts – one of the largest university arts communities in the north
- Create in professional facilities – access studios dedicated to music, foley, and surround sound mixing, alongside acoustic labs and post-production suites
- Put your skills into practice – develop your expertise through live creative projects and opportunities to share your work with audiences
- Build your creative network – make connections with local and national music, arts, and festival organisations
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 of your work 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 of your work 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.
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.
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.
Modules, teaching and 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.
Examine the methods and skills which are required in order to carry out research into the ideas and practice of music technology.
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.
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.
Study the broad subject area of spatial audio. You'll start with the history and development of the subject area, from the cinema and early explorations in the commercial audio world. Moving through to the very latest developments in sound field synthesis and virtual reality, you'll explore the key technologies, techniques and concepts for spatial audio. Through practical demonstrations and workshops, this module will explore the capture, recording, processing, manipulation, presentation and delivery of spatial audio material. You'll build up a portfolio of work in the area of spatial audio to demonstrate your practical understanding of the tools and technologies used in spatial audio applications.
Fees and funding
£10,710
UK
The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2027/28 is £10710. The amount you will pay may increase each year to take into account the effects of inflation.
£18,995
International 2027
The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2027/28 is £18995. The amount you will pay is fixed at this level for each year of your course.
Fees and funding
£10,710
For students entering in 2027
The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2027/28 is £10710. 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.
£18,995
For students entering in 2027
The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2027/28 is £18995. 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.
Funding support for your studies
Discover more about our range of postgraduate funding options including a Master's Loan of up to £13,206, and our 20% alumni discount*
*Terms apply
Leeds School of Arts Northern Film School facilities Find out more about our industry-standard film facilities
Leeds School of Arts | music and sound facilities Find out more about our industry-standard music and sound facilities.
Career prospects
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.
Career Prospects
From the subtle detail of a single sound effect to an immersive Dolby Atmos soundtrack, sound designers play a vital role in shaping how audiences experience film, television, games, podcasts, and other media. As the UK’s music and creative industries continue to grow, you’ll graduate from this sound design master’s with the practical expertise, creative portfolio, and collaborative experience to pursue opportunities across a wide range of roles.
Whether you’re capturing audio on set, shaping sound in the studio, or bringing a finished production to life in the mix, you’ll have the skills to contribute creatively at every stage of the production process. You could progress into roles such as:
- Sound designer
- Sound effects editor
- Dialogue and ADR recordist and editor
- Foley artist and editor
- Re-recording mixer
- Location recordist
You’ll also develop transferable skills in project management, creative problem-solving, communication, and working in a team, helping you adapt to the evolving demands of the sound and wider creative industries.
I chose to study at Leeds Beckett to expand my skillset as my background was within art. I really wanted to gain specific skills that would enable me to go into the industry with a broader understanding of what it entails to work within audio visual media, film, tv and radio.
As well as building my skillset, I was able to work collaboratively with other students. This has been really beneficial in terms of boosting my confidence and portfolio work.”
Holly Early
MA Sound Design
MA Sound Design Explore the creative and technical aspects of location sound, studio sound production and sound design.
Dr Matt Green
Senior Lecturer / Leeds School of Arts
Matt Green is a practice-based researcher interested in the communicative and expressive capacities of everyday sound and soundscapes in both the natural and built environment.
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.
Student life
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 ‘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.
What does creativity mean to you? At Leeds School of Arts creativity lays behind everything we do. Find out what this word means to just some of our students.
Describe your experience of studying at Leeds Beckett What’s it like studying at Leeds School of Arts and Leeds Beckett University? Some of our students share their thoughts.
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.
Thinking of staying at home for your studies?
It’s a great option for lots of our local students
