On this course you'll learn a variety of sound production techniques, including field and studio recordings, sound synthesis and processing, editing, mixing and using surround sound. Your understanding of professional production values and aesthetics will be enhanced through technical analysis and critical evaluation. We combine creative and technical work with the contextual analysis of theories and history as well as debates about technique, style and meaning.
Our focus on group work means that you'll also work on creative and technical collaborative projects with others studying related courses. You'll be set industry-related tasks which will hone your problem-solving skills in an applied setting, and allow you to complete work to professional standards.
We'll ensure that you have a realistic picture of the film and television industries, as well as covering the business aspects of the industry such as the development, financing and distribution of projects. You'll benefit from our regular sessions from visiting industry personnel. Past guests have come from Warner Bros/De Lane Lea, Pinewood Studios Sound, Prime Focus, Molinare and other top companies.
This course will also prepare you for further research in postproduction systems.
You'll study taught modules in the first part of the year. You'll then go on to take an individual project.
You'll look at digital production and postproduction processes for the creation of commercial film and television programmes, and examine the latest technical and aesthetic workflows for picture and sound. You'll put theory into practice by applying the concepts and techniques covered in lectures with labs on picture and sound techniques.
You'll study the fundamental theory and practical skills involved in the creation of sound design. You'll explore the technical design and implementation of sound synthesis and sound processing systems, and look at their creative application. You'll have hands-on experience with software packages such as ProTools, Media Composer, Adobe creative suite and Davinci.
We'll introduce you to production and postproduction methods in the field of spatial audio, including multi-channel recording techniques and mixing using different surround sound and immersive sound systems. You'll explore common methods and formats employed in the industry (entertainment, broadcast, games industry) as well as be encouraged to push the boundaries of present conventions. You'll be able to work in our Dolby Atmos mixing suites with our AVID S6 consoles, which are found in top audio postproduction facilities worldwide.
You will also study one option module each semester. Examples may include:
Some option module combinations may not be possible. The options available to you will be confirmed after you begin your course.
Our modules may change to reflect the latest academic thinking and expertise of our staff, and in line with Department/School academic planning.
You'll design and develop a creatively-focused extended research project. If you'd like to undertake a more technically-focused project then you should consider applying for the MSc in Film and Television Production with Sound instead.
You may choose from two different types of individual project:
1) A production project that involves creating a short film or pilot television episode – either fiction or nonfiction –
You’ll work with world‐leading academics who’ll challenge you to think independently and excel in all that you do. Our approach to teaching will provide you with the knowledge, opportunities, and support you need to grow and succeed in a global workplace.
The course involves a range of different teaching styles. Most modules will include lectures to give you a fundamental understanding of the subject and then lead on to practical work. The practical work will primarily involve lab sessions where you can become familiar with industry techniques and equipment. You will also take part in student-directed field recording exercises.
You'll also have the opportunity to attend events such as talks, productions and festivals.
You'll be assigned a member of our teaching staff who will act as your personal supervisor for the duration of the course. They are there to give advice on academic matters as well as other areas of University life.
You'll have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience with our industry-standard facilities.
You will need to submit a sample of your creative work with your application. Please see our guidance on submitting creative work .
If English isn't your first language you may need to provide evidence of your English language ability. We accept the following qualifications:
For more information see our postgraduate English language requirements .
You may be eligible for one of our pre-sessional English language courses . These courses will provide you with the level of English needed to meet the conditions of your offer.
The length of course you need to take depends on your current English language test scores and how much you need to improve to reach our English language requirements.
After you've accepted your offer to study at York, we'll confirm which pre-sessional course you should apply to via You@York .
You can apply and send all your documentation online. You don’t need to complete your application all at once: you can start it, save it and finish it later.
Apply for this course