Sonic Arts

The MSc in Sonic Arts at Brunel University London offers an innovative and interdisciplinary approach to the creative and technical aspects of sound production, design, and analysis. This program is designed for students who are passionate about exploring the limitless possibilities of sound as a medium for artistic expression, communication, and technology. Throughout the course, students will engage with a diverse range of topics including sound synthesis, audio engineering, sound design, spatial audio, and interactive multimedia systems. The curriculum combines theoretical foundations with practical applications, enabling students to develop both their creative skills and technical expertise. Students will have access to state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, including advanced digital audio workstations, spatial audio systems, and interactive installation tools, providing hands-on experience in real-world projects. The program encourages experimentation and innovation, fostering a collaborative environment where students can work on individual assignments and team projects that address contemporary sonic challenges. Additionally, students will explore the role of sound in various contexts such as music production, film, gaming, virtual reality, and public arts projects. The modules are designed to develop critical thinking about sound technologies and their social, cultural, and artistic implications. The MSc in Sonic Arts also emphasizes research skills, preparing students to undertake independent investigations or pursue further academic study. Graduates of this program will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to pursue careers in sound design, multimedia production, audio consultancy, live sound engineering, or to continue research in the field of sonic arts. Brunel University London’s vibrant academic environment, combined with industry engagement and expert teaching staff, ensures students receive a comprehensive education that bridges artistic creativity with technological innovation, preparing them for dynamic roles in the expanding field of sonic arts worldwide.

Detailed Course Facts

• GBP 9000 Year (EEA)
• GBP 13000 Year (Non-EEA)

• English

Course Content

The degree course is modular. Modules are worth 20 or 40 credits and you must complete 120 credits for each year of your degree programme. All music and sonic arts students take the same modules in Year 1 – the performance module can be taken in electronic performance, so does not require proficiency on an acoustic instrument. In years 2 and 3 you will have a wide range of optional modules to choose from; some of these topics can be taken at either Level 2 or Level 3. The final year project requires you to carry out in-depth research on any related topic of particular interest to you – many Sonic Arts students choose to do a practical Sonic Arts project, which, along with the 40-credit Sonic Arts III module, allows for a highly specialised third year.

Typical Modules

Level 1

• Sound Recording & Sonic Arts (20)

• Musicianship (20)

• Materials of Music (20)

• Musicology I: histories, forms and structures (20)

• Composition I (20)

• Performance I (20)

Level 2 Core

• Sonic Arts II (40)

Level 2 Options

• Composition II (20)

• Performance II (Classical or Experimental) (20)

• Performance II (Popular Music or Jazz) (20)

• Musicology II: genres (20)

• Conducting and Realisation (20)

• Instrumentation and Orchestration (20)

• Music and Perception (20)

• Popular Music Studies (20)

• Stylistic Improvisation (20)

• Free Improvisation (20)

• Jazz and Pop arranging (20)

• Professional Development (20)

Level 3 Core

• Sonic Arts III (40)

• Special Project (40)

Level 3 Options

• Composition III (40)

• Performance III (Classical or Experimental) (40)

• Performance III (Popular Music or Jazz) (40)

• Musicology III: towards the new music (40)

• Conducting and Realisation (20)

• Instrumentation and Orchestration (20)

• Music and Perception (20)

• Popular Music Studies (20)

• Stylistic Improvisation (20)

• Free Improvisation (20)

• Jazz and Pop arranging (20)

• Professional Development (20)

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6.5 CAE score : 60(Grade C) TOEFL paper-based test score : 580 TOEFL iBT® test : 92

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

• GCE A-level BBB, including Music at grade B.

• BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma DDM in a related subject.

• BTEC Level 3 Diploma DD in a related subject with an A-level Music at grade B.

• BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma D in a related subject with A-levels grade BB including Music.

• International Baccalaureate Diploma 32 points in HL 6 in Music.

• Access to Higher EducationDiploma Complete and pass a related subject Access course with 45 credits at level 3 and 15 credits at level 2 with Merits in all units. Applicants who are not taking A-level music or grade 7/8 music but are musically inclined may be asked to take a short test.

All candidates without A-level Music at grade B or equivalent or Grade 8 ABRSM, LCMM or Trinity College will be required to pass a brief entrance test, details of which will be provided upon application.

GCSE Mathematics grade C and GCSE English grade C are also required.

English Language Requirements

• IELTS: 6.5 (min 5.5 in all areas)

• Pearson: 58 (51 in all subscores)

• BrunELT: 65% (min 55% in all areas)

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than Brunel University.

The Sonic Arts program at Brunel University London offers students an innovative and interdisciplinary education in the field of sound and music technology. The programme is designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of the theoretical and practical aspects of sonic arts, including sound design, interactive media, acoustics, signal processing, and electronic music production. It encourages experimentation and creativity, enabling students to develop their unique artistic voice while gaining technical skills relevant to contemporary sonic practices. The curriculum combines coursework, project work, and research components, providing a balanced approach to artistic development and technological proficiency. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including dedicated sound studios, computer labs equipped with industry-standard software, and hardware equipment for sound manipulation and interaction design. The programme also emphasizes collaboration across disciplines, fostering teamwork with students from media, digital arts, computer science, and music backgrounds. Graduates of the Sonic Arts program are well-prepared for careers in diverse sectors such as media production, sound design for film and games, live sound engineering, interactive installations, and multimedia art. Brunel's strong industry links and focus on employability ensure students gain valuable experience through placements, industry projects, and networking opportunities. The program also encourages research and innovation, supporting students interested in pursuing advanced postgraduate study or careers in academic research. Overall, the Sonic Arts programme at Brunel offers a rigorous yet creative environment for aspiring sound artists and engineers to develop their skills, explore new sonic frontiers, and build a professional portfolio that reflects their artistic and technical achievements.