2024/25 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.
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: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r5rdoDrhkVE&t=8s
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
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.
"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
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
A wide range of opportunities and support is available to you, within and beyond your course, to ensure our students experience a transformation in their career trajectory. 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.
Every student has access to Careers Zone 24/7, LJMU's suite of online Apps, resources and jobs board via the LJMU Student Futures website. There are opportunities for flexible, paid and part-time work through Unitemps, LJMU's in-house recruitment service, and we also offer fully funded Discovery Internships.
One-to-one careers and employability advice is available via our campus-based Careers Zones and we offer a year-round programme of events, including themed careers and employability workshops, employer events and recruitment fairs. 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 Start-up 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.
A life-changing experience
There's so much more to university than just studying for a degree.
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What you will study on this degree
Please see guidance below on core and option modules for further information on what you will study.
Further guidance on modules
Modules are designated core or optional in accordance with professional body requirements, as applicable, and LJMU’s Academic Framework Regulations. Whilst you are required to study core modules, optional modules provide you with an element of choice. Their availability may vary 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
20 credits
This module aims to develop the student as an effective, self-motivated life-long learner. The study, personal and generic skills you will have acquired in other modules are applied and developed. This module provides a reflective learning experience and is a good foundation for study at higher levels and subsequent careers.
Media Production Methods
20 credits
This module 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.
On completing the module you should be able to operate industry-standard hardware to professional standards and have media understanding in audio, still images and video formats.
Audio Production Technology
20 credits
This module provides a solid understanding of the concepts upon which audio production is achieved, including the recording process, interface equipment, digital modelling, amplifiers, re-amping techniques, electronic instrumentation, classic combination rigs, studio session procedures, studio personnel, technical specifications, valve technology, amp and instrument set up, electromagnetic and piezo transducers, speaker combinations, basic electricity calculations, bespoke connectivity, cabling and connectors, soldering techniques and meters.
Practical Audio Production
20 credits
This module introduced students to the practical issues arising from recording audio and live sound reinforcement. The module encompasses an introduction to the theoretical knowledge and practical skills of audio and music production and to the equipment used in audio production. The module will cover both 'live-broadcast' and 'recorded' production and you will be required to work both individually and in small groups using equipment to become familiar with its characteristics in a way that also demonstrates safe systems of work.
Sound Technology
20 credits
To introduce the principles of sound systems and sound waves, which can be applied to a wide range of acoustics and audio subjects.
Podcasting
20 credits
This module lays the foundations to develop your ability to produce work at the technical standard required for acceptance by national radio including clip creation, editing of live-captured content, electronically-generated content, levels, post-production editing, mastering and encoding for delivery. You will also learn more widely about the history and context of podcasts as well as the importance of good ideas, targeting the right audience, scripts, studio management, interview techniques, documentary and dramatic structure, branding and marketing.
Level 5
Core modules
Audio Recording
20 credits
The module 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. You will gain experience in using both hardware and software audio devices deployed in digital audio recording.
Broadcast Standards
20 credits
Provides students with the skills and knowledge to recognize the differences between, and the application of different standards and protocols in the media broadcast arena.
Music Video Production
20 credits
In this module you will research, design, plan and manage the creation of a scripted narrative music video to a client brief. You will 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.
Studio Operations
20 credits
This module covers everything you would need to know about the operation of a modern production media studio set up, from both a technical and best industry practice point of view. After completing this module you should be able to appreciate industry-standard audio production equipment and practices as operated in the modern media production industry, undertake productions suitable for internet radio platforms, appreciate industry-standard video production equipment and practices as operated in the modern media production industry and undertake productions suitable for internet video platforms.
Sound for TV, Film and Games
20 credits
This module introduces students to audio equipment used in TV & film recording, and the practical issues arising from location and studio recording. You will gain experience of both hardware and software and following the course you should be able to create Foley sounds and ADR tracks for a video production, create original music tracks to be used in a video production, produce a full audio soundtrack for an animated film and create different audio soundscapes for a film production.
Live Performance Operations
20 credits
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.
Optional Modules
Sandwich Year - Audio and Music Production
120 credits
A placement year is an extended period of work experience at an approved partner that will complement your programme of study at LJMU. It will give you the opportunity to develop professional skills relevant to your course as well as the attitude and behaviours necessary for employment in a diverse and changing environment. Placements are normally for one calendar year on a full-time basis. Split placements of a shorter duration may be permissible.
Study Year Abroad - Audio and Music Production
120 credits
The aim is to provide students with an additional year of study at an approved overseas partner that will complement their programme at LJMU.
Level 6
Core modules
The Media Entrepreneur
20 credits
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. Topics covered include the risks and rewards of being freelance or self-employed, how to the business landscape, good business strategy and planning, marketing techniques such as segmentation, personas and value propositions and funding models such as crowdfunding.
Streaming, Apps and Networking
20 credits
In this module students will develop their skills in the areas of streaming and app development with with a basic introduction to coding covered.
Project Preparation
10 credits
To prepare the students to undertake their own media-related projects and to deliver the required skill set for successful completion of their investigations.
Career Management
10 credits
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.
Audio Restoration and Digital Enhancement
20 credits
To enable students to apply modern digital techniques for the analysis / reconstruction / transfer / identification and enhancement of a variety of audio signals and artefacts.
Project
40 credits
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.
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 its 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.
Course tutors
Our staff are committed to the highest standards of teaching and learning
Facilities
What you can expect from your School
This programme is delivered in the Byrom Street complex of LJMUs 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 is just minutes away on Tithebarn Street.
Entry requirements
Please choose your qualifications below to view requirements
Grades/points required from qualifications: BBC - ABB (112 - 128)
Qualification requirements
GCSEs 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: We require one A Level in a relevant subject including 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
BTECs
- 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 awards
- 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
OCR Cambridge Technical
- 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
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
Welsh awards
- Welsh Baccalaureate: Acceptable only when combined with other qualifications
T levels
- T Level requirements: 112 UCAS tariff points from relevant subjects. Pleasecontact the Faculty for further information.
Alternative qualifications considered
Please contact the University if you have any questions regarding the relevance of your qualifications.
Additional requirements
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Interview required
No interview required (UCAS application form only)
International requirements
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IELTS
6.0 (minimum of 5.5 in each component) or equivalent English language proficiency test.
Further information
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DBS, Occupational Health requirements
Is a DBS check required?
No
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Reduced offer scheme
As part of LJMU’s commitment to widening access we offer eligible students entry to their chosen course at a reduced threshold of up to 16/8 UCAS points. This applies if you are a student who has been in local authority care or if you have participated in one of LJMU’s sustained outreach initiatives, e.g. Summer University. Please contact the admission office for further details.
Please Note: All international qualifications are subject to a qualification equivalency check.
Application and selection
Securing your place at LJMU
UCAS is the official application route for our full-time undergraduate courses. Further information on the UCAS application process can be found here https://www.ljmu.ac.uk/study/undergraduate-students/how-to-apply.
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.