COURSE CURRICULUM

The Musical Composition and Sound Design degree develops creativity, technical skills, and critical understanding across three years. In the first year, students are introduced to the physical properties of sound, creative studio techniques, and music programming environments such as Pure Data and Max/MSP. Projects focus on sound synthesis, acoustics, perception, musical composition, and instrument design, while transferable skills in project management, presentation, and academic writing are embedded throughout. Students also study the cultural contexts of popular music, exploring genres, histories, media representations, and research methods. In the second year, students develop expertise in composition and sound design for the moving image, sound art, and new media. Practical projects include sound for film, TV, games, radio, interactive installations, and multi-channel sound. Theoretical modules support these creative practices, and one-to-one tutorials help students prepare their research essay linked to the final-year project. In the final year, students work independently on a research essay, a professional practice, and a substantial practical project that consolidates technical, intellectual, and organisational skills. The final project is presented publicly during the degree show, demonstrating creativity, professional practice, and critical understanding. Throughout the course, students engage in workshops, seminars, tutorials, and collaborative projects, graduating with a comprehensive portfolio of work and skills suited for careers in film, TV, gaming, sound art, and contemporary music industries.