BA (Hons) Degree in Audio and Music Technology

Faculty: Audio
Duration: 3 Years Full Time
Delivery: Blended Learning
Level: QQI Level 8
Start Date: 21st September 2020
Course Director: Eoin Smith
Fees: €8,823
Certification: BA (Hons.) Degree
COURSE CONTENT
Aimed at musicians, DJs, computer music hobbyists, and general lovers of music, this programme will equip you with the skills required to succeed as a modern-day audio professional. It is currently essential to be skilled in an array of disciplines and areas to become successful in the audio industry. These areas range from an understanding of recording studios, live venues, TV and radio, post-production, to the nuances of live performance. Please see below for further information on the modules you will cover in this programme:
STAGE ONE (Year 1) MODULES
This module covers basic principles of modern music technology. You will explore drum programming, samplers and VSTs. You will also learn how to set up the hardware and software of a music production suite and learn to record, edit and mix using computer based programmes.
You will be trained in the use of industry standard DAW software (Pro Tools and Logic Pro X). The curriculum and assessment is based on the official vendor programmes.
You will be introduced to the operating principles of modern recording studios and the issues in operating a recording system from microphone choice and placing techniques to basic editing and mixing techniques for final mix down.
You will introduced to music theory and notation and learn to create and compose music using music technology.
During this module you will be introduced to the technical aspects of live performance. You will work with stage set-ups and learn about the connectivity between music technology software and performance hardware.
You will learn the basic computer knowledge required to work in a professional audio/ visual environment and gain a working knowledge of basic operating systems, computer hardware and networking.
You will be introduced to the theory, techniques and practices involved in implementing appropriate sound reinforcement for a live performance event.
You will be introduced to the concepts and techniques employed in Sound Design and Foley FX.
You will learn the skills to promote yourself and your portfolio of work using online media.
STAGE THREE (Year 3) MODULES
You will work closely with a tutor to complete a large body of work. This project is led by you and may focus on any area worthy of academic research. You will further develop your skills in critical thinking and put your creativity into practice.
You will develop the ability to work and deliver products to an industry standard. You will work across a range of musical genres to build a broad range of mixing and mastering experience.
You will learn self-marketing skills and the legal and ethical issues pertaining to the world of music/audio, all of which are required to set up your own business and trade as freelance/sole trader professional.
You will gain practical and theoretical knowledge in the design and setup of a recording studio environment. You will learn how to capture and analyse acoustic information for a given environment and develop acoustic solutions to issues identified.
In this module, you will further develop recording & mixing skills. You will learn how to manage and realise a large scale, live recording project involving multiple instrumentalists for a professional standard project. You are required to source your own clients outside of the college and produce an E.P. project with the client.
Having already developed considerable recording experience, you will focus your skills into the area of post-production. You will learn about the standards and practices to deliver products for film and TV to industry specifications.
You will be equipped with the theory and practical knowledge to provide audio content for games and interact with the industry middleware and audio engines. This will be developed incrementally to help the learner in the creation of dynamic sound environments that interact directly with the game software.
During this project you will develop the ability to work with clients in a professional manner. You will be required to source a client with whom you will plan and develop a project through negotiation with your tutor.
Got a question?
HOW TO APPLY
General Course Requirements
- A proven interest in audio and/or music technology, and to display some interest in related creative media arts
- Basic knowledge of computers (Mac/PC, and audio software): helpful but not essential
This course is a direct application course and involves an interview. Applications are currently taken through the Application Form below. Upon receiving your application form our Admissions Team will contact you to schedule your course interview. Note: Applications from individuals with non-standard qualifications, relevant work or life experience will also be considered.
Further Progression
In line with national policy, graduates from the level 8 programme would be eligible to progress to postgraduate programmes at level 9.
Graduates may wish to further extend their industry-based professional qualifications as new technologies and developments emerge.
Irish Citizens under 23 years of age
Entry onto our Degree Programme is based upon a course interview and achieving a minimum of:2x H5s (H5 = 50 – 60% in a Leaving Certificate Higher Level subject) and Minimum of 4x O6/H7s (O6 = 40 – 55% in a Leaving Certificate Ordinary Subject / H7 = 30-40% in a Leaving Certificate Higher Level subject).
To include a minimum O6 or higher in Ordinary Leaving Certificate Mathematics and either Irish or English.Or:To achieve a minimum of 3 distinctions and the full award in a FETAC Level 5/6 or HETAC Level 7 in Music/Media.Or:a Minimum of 2 Grade C A Levels as well as 4 subjects from either A levels (Grades A-E) or GCSE (Grades A,B or C). Or NVQ Level 3 in Music/Media or similar
Irish mature student over 23 years of age
Students over the age of 23 years of age on 1st January of the year of the course is classified as a Mature Student.Mature applicants are advised to apply directly through the college using the ‘Apply now’ button below. Entry onto our Degree Programme is based upon a course interview. Applicants will be asked for a detailed CV. Applications should be made before the 31st August the year of the course.
International Student living abroad or in Ireland
Entry onto our Degree Programme is based upon a course interview. International Students below the age of 23 years of age will be required to submit High School Diploma Scripts and any additional Education Certifications.For applications whose first language is not English you will be asked for an original or certified true copy of one of the following:
- TOEFL Paper based 570 with a TWE (test of written English) score of 4.5.
- Computer based 233 with a score of 4.5 in the essay.
- Internet based 90 with a written score of 21.
- Cambridge Proficiency Grade C.
- Cambridge Advanced Grade A.
- IELTS Academic Version 6.5 with no individual band below 6.
Note: Students who do not satisfy Pulse College’s English language requirements for direct entry will be required to take an English language preparatory course before commencing studies. While the College does not offer an English language preparatory course, you will find this information from the Department of Education and Science’s official listing of recognised language schools.
Interview Process
This course requires an interview as part of your applications. Please see the FAQ’s below for commonly asked questions regarding the interview process.
Where do the interviews take place?
The interviews are held in:
Windmill Lane Recording Studios,
20 Ringsend Road,
Dublin 4
How long will the interview be?
The interview will be typically 20–30 minutes long.
What should I bring?
If you could please bring:
– A copy of your C.V. that includes results of any music exams / tests you have completed to date. It should also include details of any groups / associations you have been a member of. It should also list your hobbies / interests
– If you have a portfolio of work, please bring that too; CD is the preferred format, and it should include no more than four pieces. These pieces should demonstrate your abilities as a musician, composer or producer (or all three!). Please note this is not a mandatory requirement
– A copy of your passport/drivers licence
– A copy of any previous education transcripts and certificates
Is there a music test?
No, there will be some questions about music. You won’t be asked to play an instrument. This takes place in a chatty, comfortable atmosphere. We will also ask you to discuss your influences in relation to producers, composers, etc.
How many people will be interviewing me?
The panel typically comprises 2-3 people.
Apart from the minimum requirements, what do they generally look for in a candidate?
Successful candidates have a strong, proven interest in this area. They are passionate about music and are prepared to work very hard towards their goals.
“The caliber of the teachers were first class in terms of instruction and information. I thoroughly enjoyed the experience and learned a lot!”
Google ReviewCheryl Cobern Browne
FEES
Study Mode: Full-Time
Location: Dublin
Irish/EU living in Ireland: EUR 8,823*
*The fees above relate to Year 1 fees only. 2% PFL Charge of €173 included in Total Fee Per Year
Flexible Payment Option
Deposit: €800 (payable upon acceptance onto the course, following interview)
Enrolment Fee: €3,500 (payable by September)
Instalments: 4 monthly payments of €1,130.75 (Oct – Jan)
Year 2 Course Fees: €8,415
Year 3 Course Fees: €8,415
Course fees are paid directly to the International Office of our partner college: Griffith College.
Study Mode: Full-Time
Location: Dublin
Non-EU Living in Ireland or abroad: Please refer to Griffith’s Non-EU Tuition Fees section.
EU Living Abroad: EUR 9,639*
*The fees above relate to Year 1 fees only. 2% PFL Charge of €189 included in Total Fee Per Year. Please note that a Registration Fee of €250 is applicable each academic year in addition to the fees quoted above for International & EU (living outside of Ireland Students).