2023/24 entry
BSc (Hons) Audio and Music Production
Why study Audio and Music Production at Liverpool John Moores University?
- Excellent student support from academic tutors and student mentors
- Our application-led curriculum (designed in line with advice from industrial partners) emphasises an understanding of the concepts and theories that underpin technology as well as their application to real-world professional scenarios
- Teaching is supported by relevant laboratories and workshops (including recording, radio and television studios) with state-of-the-art software and excellent technical support
- Option to complete a validated year-long industrial placement (as part of the sandwich programme) or study a year abroad.
- International Foundation Year course available offering direct progression onto this degree programme - visit LJMU's International Study Centre to find out more
About your course
By studying BSc (Hons) Audio and Music Production at Liverpool John Moores University you will graduate with excellent technical skills plus the business management expertise required to succeed in this exciting industry.
Additional course costs
Students are recommended to get their own headphones, portable disks and SD cards though these can all be provided by the department if required.
Behind every live or studio performance lies a fascinating array of modern audio technology. This course gives you an opportunity to learn about the theories and concepts which underpin the use of this equipment, enabling you to work independently, solving practical problems and identifying solutions which help performers, producers and directors get the best results. It is important to note that while this course includes some elements related to artistic matters, it is not primarily an arts-based course, though content creation by students does feature quite extensively within the framework as a means of underpinning and enhancing the development of understanding in the techniques and technical processes involved. Furthermore, students are expected to engage with other media production theories and techniques where audio plays only a part, albeit a significant one. The advent of new computer-based technology has profoundly altered the way we create, capture and deliver audio content. In order to secure a career in the audio/music-related industries, you will need to gain and demonstrate the competence and confidence to work effectively with this technology. Traditionally, purely technical graduates lack a business and management perspective. Similarly, media studies graduates often lack the necessary technical appreciation to work in this field. This programme bridges that gap and you will graduate not only with enhanced abilities in the operation of the specialist equipment deployed and with sound/music appreciation, but also the business management awareness to succeed in the audio/music production industry. Three strands (production; technology; management) run throughout the course, building knowledge at each level. (Despite the emphasis on the use of technology, applicants are not expected to have Level 3 qualifications rooted in subjects that would be pre-requisites in more traditional technology degrees and staff are familiar in dealing with students from a wide range of backgrounds.) |
You will have access to state-of-the-art audio technology as well as staff with extensive knowledge and experience. You will develop skills in media technology, basic signal capture and storage, computer applications and studio technology and be trained in all aspects of creating live or recorded entertainment. Combined with the practical hands-on experience you will get if you choose to do a work placement, this will give you a significant advantage when it comes to securing your first job.
You will have access to industrially-relevant teaching facilities at the Byrom Street campus including a dedicated 'live' recording area, radio and television studios, recording booths and modern editing facilities.
Learn more about our degree course in a 3-minute video:
For handy hints and tips on how to avoid the top 5 common mistakes when creating audio and video content, see the 1-minute video at the top of this article: https://www.ljmu.ac.uk/about-us/news/features/top-5-audio-visual-mistakes
"Excellent facilities and great staff. It’s good to be in a small class as equipment is easy to borrow."
Fees and funding
There are many ways to fund study for home and international students
Fees
The fees quoted above cover registration, tuition, supervision, assessment and examinations as well as:
- Library membership with access to printed, multimedia and digital resources
- Access to programme-appropriate software
- Library and student IT support
- Free on-campus wifi via eduroam
Additional costs
Although not all of the following are compulsory/relevant, you should keep in mind the costs of:
- accommodation and living expenditure
- books (should you wish to have your own copies)
- printing, photocopying and stationery
- PC/laptop (should you prefer to purchase your own for independent study and online learning activities)
- mobile phone/tablet (to access online services)
- field trips (travel and activity costs)
- placements (travel expenses and living costs)
- student visas (international students only)
- study abroad opportunities (travel costs, accommodation, visas and immunisations)
- academic conferences (travel costs)
- professional-body membership
- graduation (gown hire etc)
Funding
There are many ways to fund study for home and international students. From loans to International Scholarships and subject-specific funding, you’ll find all of the information you need on our specialist funding pages.
Employability
You will enjoy varied career opportunities working in sound production or as sound engineers.
The first group of students from the BSc Audio and Music Production degree graduated in 2011, with a number securing employment with high profile companies, including BBC Radio 4 and Sky, clearly demonstrating the calibre of both our students and the programme itself.
Since then graduates have continued this successful employment profile with companies such as Adlib, ITV, Bradford City Film, ADI tv, BBC, ITV, Channel 4, Bauer Media and various independent recording studios. One of graduates is a BAFTA-nominated and award-winning independent composer, producer and performer.Graduate opportunities include working as sound engineers or in sound production working in television and radio companies, theatres, event venues and music recording studios. Many graduates have also started their own recording/production companies.
Student Futures - Careers, Employability and Enterprise Service
We are committed to ensuring all our students experience a transformation in their employability skills and mindset and their career trajectory. A wide range of opportunities and support is available to you, within and beyond your course.
Every undergraduate curriculum includes Future Focus during Level 4, an e-learning resource and workshop designed to help you to develop your talents, passion and purpose. It will enable you to become more proactive, adaptable and resilient in your awareness and approach to career possibilities.
Every student has access to Careers Zone 24/7, LJMU’s state-of-the-art suite of online tools, resources and jobs board. There are opportunities for flexible, paid and part-time work through Unitemps, LJMU’s in-house recruitment service, ensuring students can build experience whilst they study.
One-to-one careers and employability advice is available via our campus-based Careers Zones to accelerate your job search and applications, CV and interview technique. Themed careers and employability workshops, a programme of employer events and recruitment fairs run throughout the year and students have the opportunity to hear from a range of alumni who openly share their own onward experience.
Student Futures work with businesses to create opportunities for fully funded internships which help students increase their network within the Liverpool City Region and beyond. Our Start-Up Hub can help you to grow your enterprise skills and to research, plan and start your own business or become a freelancer.
A suite of learning experiences, services and opportunities is available to final year students to help ensure you leave with a great onward plan. You can access LJMU’s Careers, Employability and Enterprise Services after you graduate and return for one-to-one support for life.
Go abroad
LJMU aims to make international opportunities available to every student. You may be able to study abroad as part of your degree at one of our 100+ partner universities across the world. You could also complete a work placement or apply for one of our prestigious worldwide internship programmes. If you wanted to go abroad for a shorter amount of time, you could attend one of our 1-4 week long summer schools.
Our Go Citizen Scheme can help with costs towards volunteering, individual projects or unpaid placements anywhere in the world. With all of these opportunities at your feet, why wouldn’t you take up the chance to go abroad?
Find out more about the opportunities we have available via our Instagram @ljmuglobalopps or email us at: goabroad@ljmu.ac.uk.
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What you will study on this degree
Please see guidance on core and option modules for further information on what you will study.
Further guidance on modules
Modules are designated core or option in accordance with professional body requirements, as applicable, and LJMU’s Academic Framework Regulations.
Whilst you are required to study core modules, optional modules may also be included to provide you with an element of choice within the programme. The availability of optional modules may vary from year to year and will be subject to meeting minimum student numbers.
Where changes to modules are necessary these will be communicated as appropriate.
Level 4
Core modules
The Media Industry
Aims
To develop the student as an effective, self-motivated life-long learner. The study, personal and generic skills are applied and developed in other Level 4 modules, and provide a platform-reflective learning experience and foundation for study at higher levels and subsequent careers.
Learning Outcomes
After completing the module the student should be able to:
1 Demonstrate an understanding of the key transferable skills required to support their learning in HE and the workplace.
2 Appreciate legal, ethical, regulatory, and self-regulatory frameworks within which the audio industry operates.
3 Comprehend the role of song composition for music production.
4 Identify and reflect upon the following aspects of self-awareness in respect of personal development and career planning: strengths and weaknesses, motivations and values, ability to work with others.
Media Production Methods
Aims
To introduce students to professional technical and craft practices as used in general media production including: equipment competence, managing and organising tasks, people and resources; working to specifications; and applying safe and reliable systems of work.
After completing the module the student should be able to:
1 Operate industry-standard hardware to professional standards.
2 Acquire media essence in both audio, still images and video formats.
Audio Production technology
Aims
To provide a solid understanding of the concepts upon which audio production is achieved.
Learning Outcomes
After completing the module the student should be able to:
1 Describe and analyse the different type of recording studio.
2 Appreciate technical specifications.
3 Describe and analyse the properties of industry standard audio connectivity.
4 Appreciate audio connectivity and perform basic electrical calculations.
Practical Audio Production
Aims
To introduce students to the practical issues arising from recording audio and live sound reinforcement.
Learning Outcomes
After completing the module the student should be able to:
1 Appreciate using a DAW to implement drum replacement.
2 Specify typical acoustic drum sizes and specifications.
3 Appreciate industry-standard hardware and software used to produce CD quality audio.
4 Specify how to create recorded audio music productions.
Sound Technology
Aims
To introduce the principles of sound systems and sound waves, which can be applied to a wide range of acoustics and audio subjects.
Learning Outcomes
After completing the module the student should be able to:
1 Calculate relevant acoustic properties of typical environments and equipment.
2 Propose solutions to problematic environments and equipment.
3 Manipulate acoustic properties such as standard pressure level, intensity level, acoustic impedance etc to solve technical and practical problems.
Podcasting
Aims
Maintain and extend a sound theoretical approach to the application of radio production and its technology in practice. Use a sound methodological approach to audio editing. Identify, review and select techniques, procedures and methods to undertake editing tasks. Plan for effective project implementation and deployment of edited work via radio outlet.
Learning Outcomes
After completing the module the student should be able to:
1 Develop a podcast concept with due regard to genre clarity and and audience insight.
2 Create suitable pre-production materials such as treatment and programme structure.
3 Create a podcast to industry standards.
4 Develop a marketing strategy for the podcast with appropriate branding and involving suitable social media platforms.
Level 5
Core modules
Audio Recording
Aims
To enhance students' knowledge of the equipment used in a Recording Studio and hence address the practical issues arising from recording using a control surface. Also to allow students to gain experience in using both hardware and software audio devices deployed in digital audio recording.
After completing the module the student should be able to:
1 Appreciate Recording Studio equipment levels.
2 Develop a usable audio signal chain using effects within the studio environment.
3 Describe and analyse the Glyn Johns method of microphone placement.
4 Produce an audio media package.
Broadcast Standards
Aims
Provide students with the skills and knowledge to recognize the differences between, and the application of different standards and protocols in the media broadcast arena.
Learning Outcomes
After completing the module the student should be able to:
1 Identify and describe parameters associated with broadcast quality audio.
2 Identify and describe parameters associated with broadcast quality video.
3 Analyse a broadcasting scenario, and discuss the applicability of different protocols and standards.
Music Video Production
Aims
Research, design, plan and manage the creation of a scripted narrative music video to a client brief. To enable the student to develop the video craft skills which complement existing audio learning, whilst managing all aspects of the video production process including client liaison, pre- and post-production to the mastering of the final product.
Learning Outcomes
After completing the module the student should be able to:
1 Research and design the creation of a narrative music video to a client brief with due regard to contractual and intellectual property issues relating to commercial media production.
2 Project manage the production of the video using preproduction techniques.
3 Creatively apply video and audio recording, post-production and mastering skills to deliver a final product.
Live Performance
Aims
To consolidate and extend knowledge of technical operations in the broadcast media and creative industries, with specific regard to the additional challenges encountered in technical management of live performances.
Learning Outcomes
After completing the module the student should be able to:
1 Develop safety plans and technical specifications for a live performance scenario.
2 Evaluate and/or use appropriate live performance technology in a relevant situation.
3 Appraise the effectiveness of the approach and reflect on the performance of team members.
Studio Operations
Aims
To introduce students to modern media productions as used in the creative industries, including: managing and organizing tasks, people and resources; working to specifications; and applying safe systems of work.
After completing the module the student should be able to:
1 Appreciate industry-standard audio production equipment and practices as operated in the modern media production industry.
2 Undertake productions suitable for internet radio platforms.
3 Appreciate industry-standard video production equipment and practices as operated in the modern media production industry.
4 Undertake productions suitable for internet Video platforms.
Sound for TV, Film and Games
Aims
To introduce students to audio equipment used in TV & Film recording, and the practical issues arising from location and studio recording. To gain experience of both hardware and software.
After completing the module the student should be able to:
1 Create Foley sounds and ADR tracks for a video production.
2 Create original music tracks to be used in a video production.
3 Produce a full audio soundtrack for an animated film.
4 Create different audio soundscapes for a film production.
Level 6
Core modules
The Media Entrepreneur
Aims
The aims of this module are to enable the student to develop the managerial skills and commercial awareness required to research and create a media-related enterprise or event by organising people, resources and time.
Learning Outcomes
After completing the module the student should be able to:
1 Analyse the macro-environmental enterprise context using secondary and primary market research to reveal opportunities.
2 Synthesise opportunities and personal strengths to generate enterprise ideas.
3 Develop and present an enterprise concept with environmentally sustainable supporting plans to manage resources, people and time to achieve enterprise goals.
4 Create a crowdfunding strategy involving a video and supporting branding, promotion and social media communication strategies.
Streaming, Apps and Networking
Aims
The aim of the module is to allow students develop their skills in the areas of streaming, app development and coding.
Learning Outcomes
After completing the module the student should be able to:
1 Develop analogue and digital devices, to interface with mobile Apps using wired and wireless technologies.
2 Integrate Apps with streaming technologies.
3 Analyse a multimedia networking environment.
4 Configure streaming services.
Project Preparation
Aims
To prepare the students to undertake their own media-related projects and to deliver the required skill set for successful completion of their investigations.
Learning Outcomes
After completing the module the student should be able to:
1 Critically analyse and reflect on the work of other practitioners
2 Design and formulate methods to produce a project deliverable and undertake quantitative and qualitative evaluation of the results.
3 Formulate a study plan, demonstrating an understanding of the effect of risks and uncertainties in the delivery of a project.
Career Management
Aims
To provide Audio and Music Production students with the confidence, skills and knowledge to make realistic, well-informed career and lifestyle choices, and with the ability to review and adapt their plans in the light of changing priorities and circumstances. To develop independent learning skills by offering access to diverse experiences.
Learning Outcomes
After completing the module the student should be able to:
1 Identify and examine a range of suitable options for Audio Engineers postgraduation and how the Audio/Recording labour market operates
2 Identify sources of help and support which can be accessed or referred to both in the short-term, and at transitional periods throughout working life.
3 Identify and examine a range of suitable options for Audio/Sound Technicians/Engineers post-graduation and how the Audio/Recording labour market operates.
4 Apply the practices of reflection, analysis and review to create a realistic action plan in relation to career management and personal development.
Audio Restoration and Digital Enhancement
Aims
To enable students to apply modern digital techniques for the analysis / reconstruction / transfer / identification and enhancement of a variety of audio signals and artefacts.
Learning Outcomes
After completing the module the student should be able to:
1 Select appropriate tools to restore audio material from various legacy formats.
2 Analyse and reconstruct an audio product to appropriate industry standards.
3 Analyse and enhance a sound file to identify the obscured content.
4 Apply knowledge and techniques to suggest/develop improvements for an engineered product.
Project
Aims
To allow the students to develop their knowledge, skills, and general expertise in relation to a project deliverable embodying technical mastery, good design practice, and self-management on a subject of their choice. The project will provide the opportunity for the students to demonstrate their ability to learn and develop their skills independently culminating in an appropriate media-related deliverable suitable for showcasing to prospective employers.
Learning Outcomes
After completing the module the student should be able to:
1 Demonstrate a knowledge of and ability to apply design, management, and technical skills within the project.
2 Demonstrate to an advanced degree the ability to organise and coordinate the resources at their disposal to achieve project aims, including liaison with technical staff, lecturers and other organisations.
3 Demonstrate their ability to produce a media-related deliverable which adheres to industry standards.
4 Demonstrate their ability to learn new skills, acquire new knowledge, adapt current skills and knowledge and apply them to specific outcomes or problems in a self-directing mode of learning.
5 Have developed the skills of research, problem-solving, decision-taking during the project.
Teaching and work-related learning
Excellent facilities and learning resources
We have sound and TV studios where you will practice your skills and develop understanding of the production process through teamwork in a completely realistic environment.
Teaching varies according to the module being studied but is mainly delivered through lectures supported by small-group tutorial work. There is an emphasis on interactive study through our virtual learning environment, Canvas, from which you can access online learning resources at any time and from anywhere.
Our Byrom Street campus, where this course is delivered, is engineered to assist you to success thanks to the investment of £6million in state-of-the-art teaching facilities.
Our contemporary computer suites provide access to high-performance computers, dedicated to students from our School. Teaching rooms are designed to enable the multimedia delivery of teaching materials and demonstrations.
Work-based Learning
This course offers an invaluable opportunity to undertake a sandwich year or placement working in the industry after your second year. This experience cannot be underestimated as it will give you a chance to put what you have learnt in the first two years into practice, enhance your skills and provide a taste of what it’s really like to work in the industry. It will also give you a head start when you come to negotiate your way around the competitive job market.
Support and guidance
Dedicated personal tutor, plus study skills support
Like students on all degrees, you will need support during your course but particularly during the early stages. For this reason, you will be allocated a personal tutor with whom you can discuss course-related issues, work on a personal development plan and set your own targets. Small tutorial groups also provide a supportive environment in which to discuss ideas and issues more informally with your tutors and fellow students.
Assessment
Assessment varies depending on the modules you choose, but will usually include a combination of exams and coursework.
Students' knowledge and understanding will usually be assessed via a combination of examinations and coursework. However, certain subjects may be assessed by other means, such as through a portfolio of work or practical work, for example.
A final-year project gives you the chance to work independently and contributes considerably to your final mark. Your tutors will give prompt and constructive feedback via Canvas, face-to-face or in writing. This will help you to identify your strengths as well as the areas where you may need to put in more effort.
Facilities
What you can expect from your School
This programme is delivered in the Byrom Street complex of LJMU’s City Campus. Here you’ll find high quality lecture theatres, meeting and seminar rooms plus social spaces and a large café. The Avril Robarts Library, open 24/7 during semester, is just minutes away on Tithebarn Street.
Entry requirements
Please choose your qualifications below to view requirements
Minimum points required from qualifications: 112
GCSE and equivalents
Prior to starting the programme applicants must have obtained Grade C or Grade 4 or above in English Language and Mathematics GCSE or an approved alternative qualification below:
- Key Skills Level 2 in English/ Maths
- NVQ Level 2 Functional skills in Maths and English Writing and or Reading
- Skills for Life Level 2 in Numeracy/English
- Higher Diploma in Maths/ English
- Functional Skills Level 2 in Maths/ English
- Northern Ireland Essential Skills Level 2 in Communication or Application of Number
- Wales Essential Skills Level 2 in Communication or Application of Number
A Levels
- Minimum number of A Levels required: 2
- Subject specific requirements: A minimum of 64 UCAS points must be taken from relevant A2 level subjects. Relevant subjects include Computing, IT, Maths, Physics and Music Technology
- Is general studies acceptable? Yes
- Average A Level offer: BBC
- Are AS level awards acceptable? Acceptable only when combined with other qualifications
- Maximum AS Level points accepted: 20
T Levels
- T Level requirements: 112 UCAS tariff points from relevant subjects. Pleasecontact the Faculty for further information.
BTEC qualifications
- National Certificate (RQF): Acceptable only when combined with other qualifications
- National Extended Certificate: Acceptable only when combined with other qualifications
- National Diploma (RQF): Acceptable on its own and combined with other qualifications
- National Diploma subjects / grades required: D*D* if studied on its own or to the total of 112 UCAS points if combined with other qualifications
- National Extended Diploma (RQF): Acceptable on its own and combined with other qualifications
- National Extended Diploma subjects / grades required: DMM from a relevant subject area if studied on its own or to the total of 112 UCAS points if combined with other qualifications
Access to Higher Education Diploma
- Access to Higher Education Diploma acceptability: Acceptable on its own and combined with other qualifications
- Further information: 112 UCAS tariff points in a relevant subject area.
International Baccalaureate
- International Baccalaureate: Acceptable on its own and combined with other qualifications
- Additional information: 112 UCAS tariff points
Welsh awards
- Welsh Baccalaureate: Acceptable only when combined with other qualifications
Irish awards
- Irish Leaving Certificate: Acceptable on its own and combined with other qualifications
- Grades / subjects required: 112 UCAS points from a minimum of 5 subjects
OCR Cambridge Technicals
- Technical Certificate: Acceptable only when combined with other qualifications
- Technical Diploma: Acceptable on its own and combined with other qualifications
- Technical Extended Diploma: Acceptable on its own and combined with other qualifications
- Technical Foundation Diploma: Acceptable only when combined with other qualifications
- Technical Introductory Diploma: Acceptable only when combined with other qualifications
- Technical Subsidiary Diploma: Acceptable only when combined with other qualifications
Alternative qualifications considered
Please contact the University if you have any questions regarding the relevance of your qualifications.
Reduced Offer Scheme
No interview required (UCAS application form only)
IELTS6.0 (minimum of 5.5 in each component) or equivalent English language proficiency test.
International entry requirementsPlease Note: All international qualifications are subject to a qualification equivalency check.
Can this course be deferred?Yes
Is a DBS check required?No
Application and selection
Securing your place at LJMU
We are looking for students who are keen to learn new skills and develop those they already possess. We want students with the ability to: be creative with ideas and concepts, moderate their creativity with logic, be enthusiastic and thirsty for knowledge, communicate effectively and confidently and understand and adapt to a wide range of issues connected with the subject. It is also important that students are able to manage time and tasks effectively as an individual and as part of a team, use appropriate sources to find and organise information and select and critically evaluate information in order to analyse problems
If you would like to develop these skills further, have a strong interest in this subject area and want to work effectively within it, then this is the course for you!
International applications will be considered in line with UK qualifications.
The University reserves the right to withdraw or make alterations to a course and facilities if necessary; this may be because such changes are deemed to be beneficial to students, are minor in nature and unlikely to impact negatively upon students or become necessary due to circumstances beyond the control of the University. Where this does happen, the University operates a policy of consultation, advice and support to all enrolled students affected by the proposed change to their course or module.
Further information on the terms and conditions of any offer made, our admissions policy and the complaints and appeals process.