Higher National Diploma in Sound Engineering

Course description

CERTIFICATION
• BTEC Higher National Diploma in Music (Sound
Engineering), with a Higher National Certifi cate after
year one.
• Year One: Pearson BTEC Higher National Certifi cate
in Music (Technology)
• Year Two: Pearson BTEC Higher National Diploma in
Music (Sound Engineering)

WHAT IS THE HIGHER NATIONAL DIPLOMA IN SOUND ENGINEERING?
Are you passionate about music and sound? Do you want to develop the technical skills and knowledge required to succeed in
the exciting world of sound engineering? The Higher National Diploma in Sound Engineering in Sound Engineering is designed
to equip you with the knowledge and practical skills required to excel in the ever-evolving audio industry.
This practical course is designed to give you hands-on experience in a range of audio engineering disciplines, including
recording technology, live sound techniques and sound design for interactive media. With classes based in professional
recording studios, live music venues and specialist computer labs, you’ll have the opportunity to work with industry-standard
equipment and gain real-world experience in a range of settings.
Graduates can take advantage of a variety of potential career pathways, including roles as recording engineers, live sound
engineers, sound designers, audio post-production engineers and more.

COURSE CONTENT
YEAR 1
In the first year, students will gain a solid foundation
in essential sound principles, acoustics, studio design,
recording technology, and sound engineering fundamentals
through practical classes in dedicated computer labs and
professional recording studios.
Additionally, they will explore the use of creative software
techniques, live sound techniques, and marketing and
promotion strategies, ensuring they are prepared for the
demands of the industry.
The first year also includes modules on professional
development and an overview of the music industry, setting
the stage for a successful career in sound engineering.

YEAR 1 MODULES
The following modules will be offered subject to availability
or demand and are subject to change:
• Applied Sound Principles
• Creative Software Techniques
• Live Sound Techniques
• Marketing and Promotion
• Professional Development
• Recording Technology
• Sound Engineering Fundamentals
• The Music Industry

YEAR 2
The second year focuses on refining and expanding on
specialist sound engineering skills developed in Year
1. Students will master advanced music production
techniques, sound design for interactive media and
live performances, while working on their own creative
portfolio. The intricacies of mixing and mastering will be
developed in a creative research project.
The course not only provides the student with the
technical expertise necessary to succeed in various roles
within the audio industry but also fosters critical thinking,
problem solving and collaboration skills.

YEAR 2 MODULES
• Advanced Music Production
• Advanced Sound Design for Interactive Media
• Advanced Sound Engineering
• Creative Portfolio
• Creative Research Project
• Live Mixing
• Mixing and Mastering

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
This course opens up a world of exciting and diverse career
paths for aspiring musicians and sound professionals.
Graduates will be well prepared to explore a multitude of
roles in the music, film and creative media industry or for
further progression to Level 7 or 8 degree courses.

EXAMPLES OF HIGHER EDUCATION
PROGRESSION:
Sonic Arts Research Centre, Queen’s University
Belfast: BA (Hons) Music and Audio Production or
BA (Hons) Music and Sound Design (Level 8, 3 years
with Advanced entry into Year 2 possible)
BIMM: TU961 – BA (Hons) Commercial Modern Music
(Music Production), (Level 8, 4 years with Advanced
Entry into Year 2 or Year 3 possible)
BCFE: BA (Hons) in Media Production Management,
(Level 8, 1 year, accredited by DCU)
DkIT: DK865 – BA (Hons) in Audio and Music
Production (Level 8, 4 years, with Advanced Entry
into Year 2 possible)

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
At least one of the following:
• Leaving Certificate
• Leaving Certificate Applied (LCA)
• QQI Level 5 major award in a related subject
• Mature students of all background
• Other equivalent qualification
All applicants will be interviewed regardless of
previous qualifications.

Apply directly at www.dunboynecollege.ie