Higher Certificate in Sound Engineering and Music Production
Program start date | Application deadline |
2025-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
Higher Certificate in Sound Engineering and Music Production - Full-time
Overview
This programme is offered in conjunction with our partners Sound Training College (STC). Located at Rory Gallagher Corner and the Temple Bar Music Centre (The Button Factory), Sound Training College has been setting standards in audio education for over 30 years. A variety of full and part time courses to suit all learners are offered in Music Production, Sound Engineering, Live Sound, Lighting and Festival Management.
This Sound Engineering and Music Production course is focused on providing students with the essential knowledge, industry experience, contacts and opportunities required to succeed in the music industry. This includes access to Sound Training Productions, a recording and production company led by graduates and students, which offers unrivalled, unique opportunities and links with key contacts in the music industry.
Key themes include:
- Studio and Recording Techniques
- Music Technology and Digital audio workstations
- Electronic Music Production
- Client based Music Production
- Acoustics and Psychoacoustics
- Pre-production, Artist Development and all aspects of Client Work
- Composition
- Music Business
- Project management
- Practical Electronics
Content is complemented by a vast array of seminars from industry professionals, all contributing to the creative and technical development of the student.
Students can look forward to abundant access to studio facilities, both in class time and on project work, as well as real-world project experience, examples of which can be seen on our the Sound Training Productions website. Software used on the course includes Pro Tools, Logic and Ableton. See our facilities for hardware and studio equipment.
Aims and Objectives
The specific objectives of the programme are to:
- Equip learners with an understanding of the fundamentals of critical listening, psycho-acoustics and the physics of sound, and the role that these play in the production process on both a technical and creative level.
- Develop learners’ understanding of the role of the studio, engineer, producer, and preparatory works (preproduction), when working with a client and other creatives (of a similar level to their skillset) in a production setting.
- Provide learners with the practical and technical skills to work with industry-standard hardware and software.
- Familiarise learners with the compositional process, and the role of composer, and composition in production, with a focus on electronic music.
- Develop learners’ soft and transferable skills, preparing them to work effectively and collaboratively with others.
- Equip learners with knowledge of business concepts, project management and marketing in music production.
- Develop learners’ transferable skills, which are directly complementary and relevant to both the workplace and a production setting.
- Identify and develop autonomous learning skills for the learner.
- Provide the learner with a foundation for career development, innovation and further study.
Delivery
All learners are expected to attend in person in class. Online Access: Enrolled students will receive access to both DBS and Sound Training Online platforms and resources.
Entry Requirements
The minimum entry requirements for this programme are:
- Leaving Certificate – Applicants must obtain a minimum of 506/H7 to include Maths & English or another language.
- FETAC/QQI – A full Level 5 FETAC/QQI Award (i.e. 8 modules) or
- A-Levels / GCSE – Applicants must obtain a minimum of 4 GCSE passes at grade C to include Mathematics and English or another language, plus 1 A-Level pass
- BTEC – Applicants must obtain a minimum of a BTEC National Diploma in a cognate area.
- For applicants whose first language is not English and who have not previously undertaken a degree taught through English, evidence must be provided of proficiency in English language equivalent to B2+ or above on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFRL). This must be evidenced through a recognised English Language test such as IELTS, Cambridge Certificate, PTE or DBS English Assessment. Test certificates should be dated within the last two years to be considered valid.
Course Content
The Sound Engineering and Music Production course has the following content:
Stage 1
- Analysing Audio
- Pre-production and Studio Engineering
- Instrument Set-up
- Intro to Sound
- Developing DAW Skills
- Composing in the DAW
- Business for Music Professionals
- Music Writings
Stage 2
- Studio Production
- Studio Recording
- Acoustics and Psychoacoustics for Production
- Critical Listening and DAW Skills
- Electronic Music Composition
- Research Project
- Marketing Essentials and Business Planning
Teaching and Assessment
Course work is broken down into the following components for some of which are used in each module:
• Lectures • Hands-on small group tutorials • Group Discussion • Practical analysis and evaluative exercises • Case Study • Practical skills sessions
Working with clients and artists throughout the programme in studio and live sessions is key to the success of the programme learning and teaching strategy. Live recording projects bring a unique set of challenges which allow students to experience relevant industry demands. Here the specific challenges revolve around teamwork, project planning and dealing with unpredictable events.
Structure
This is a two year full-time programme.
Students can look forward to abundant access to studio facilities, both in class time and on project work, as well as real world project experience, examples of which can be seen on our Sound Training Productions website. Software used on the course includes Pro Tools, Logic and Ableton. See our facilities for hardware and studio equipment.
Career Opportunities
Sound Engineering and Music Production graduates will be able to pursue a career as a sound engineer, editor or music producer in the audio industry.
Our alumni continue to lead the field in the audio industry. Hear some of their stories.
Graduates completing this programme may be employed in audio and music production, sound recording, multimedia promotions, event management, radio and broadcast in a range of roles such as:
- Research & Production Assistant
- Recording & Mixing Engineer
- Live FOH Engineer
- Live Monitor Engineer
- Audio Producer
- Sound Technician for Games Development
- Audio Software Programmer
- Music App Developer
- Sound Designer
- Sound Technician for Foley and Sound Effects
- Sound Editor for Post-Production
- Stage Manager
- Production Assistant Live Events
- DAW Operator
Graduates will possess the knowledge and skills in the following areas and technologies:
- Digital Audio Workstations
- Critical listening and aural recognition
- Compositional techniques
- Project management
- Large format console recording
- Studio signal flow
- Outboard signal processors
- Microphones
- Recording, mixing and editing
- Audio mastering
- Sound reinforcement (front of house monitors)
- Live performance technologies
- Studio production
- Audio post-production
- Live production
Graduates can apply for progression onto advanced years of a degree programme; a number of STC graduates have successfully progressed to further academic qualifications in this manner.
Fees
The fees for Higher Certificate in Sound Engineering and Music Production are €6,045 per annum for EU students.
International Fees
EU Fees
You can also contact our admissions team who will also be able to advise on the payment options available to you.
Fees quoted cover the annual cost of tuition, registration and examinations and are EU fees only. Non-EU students please refer to the International section of the website. Please note also that tax relief is available on fees for Irish income tax payers at the standard rate of 20% on all fees exceeding €3,000 and up to €7,000.
All QQI accredited programmes of education and training of 3 months or longer duration offered by Dublin Business School (DBS) are covered by arrangements under section 65 (4) (b) of the Qualifications and Quality Assurance (Education and Training) Act 2012 whereby in the event that DBS ceases to provide the programme, for any reason, after learners have started on that programme, Kaplan Inc., as guarantor, will refund the moneys most recently paid by or for the learner. More details are included in the terms and conditions of learner admission to DBS and on programme handbooks provided at induction.
Course Overview
Awarding Body: Quality & Qualifications Ireland (QQI)
Award: Higher Certificate
NFQ Level: Level 6
Title of Award: Higher Certificate in Sound Engineering and Music Production
Award Type: Major
Duration: 2 Years
CAO Code: DB534
Next Intake: September 2025
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Program Outline
Higher Certificate in Sound Engineering and Music Production - Full-time
Degree Overview:
- Awarding Body: Quality & Qualifications Ireland (QQI)
- Award: Higher Certificate
- NFQ Level: Level 6
- Title of Award: Higher Certificate in Sound Engineering and Music Production
- Award Type: Major
- Duration: 2 Years
- CAO Code: DB534
- Next Intake: September 2024 This program, offered in collaboration with Sound Training College (STC), provides students with the essential knowledge, industry experience, contacts, and opportunities needed to succeed in the music industry. It is focused on practical learning with abundant access to studio facilities, real-world project experience, and access to Sound Training Productions, a recording and production company led by graduates and students. The program includes lectures, hands-on tutorials, group discussions, and practical sessions.
Outline:
- Year 1:
- Introduction to Critical Listening
- Introduction to Preproduction and Studio Engineering
- Introduction to Musical Instrument Set Up
- Introduction to Sound and Audio Recording Software
- Learning to Learn
- Introduction to Electronic Music Composition
- Introduction to Business for Music Professionals
- Year 2:
- Critical Listening and Fundamental Mixing Skills
- Studio Recording Principles and Techniques
- Electronic Music Composition and Production
- Fundamental Acoustics and Psychoacoustics for Production
- Marketing Essentials and Business Planning
- Introduction to Studio Production and Client Project Management
- Practical Electronics
- Software Used: Pro Tools, Logic, Ableton
- Access to Facilities: STC facilities with hardware and studio equipment
Assessment:
- Coursework includes lectures, hands-on tutorials, group discussions, practical analysis and evaluation exercises, case studies, and practical skills sessions.
- Specific assessment methods and criteria are not provided in the context.
Teaching:
- No specific information about teaching methods, faculty, or unique approaches is provided in the context.
Careers:
- Graduates can pursue careers as sound engineers, editors, or music producers in the audio industry.
- Examples of alumni success stories are available here: https://youtu.be/3e1HGx21nWg
- Graduates can apply for progression onto advanced years of a degree program.
Other:
- The program is delivered in person in class.
- Students will receive access to Sound Training Online resources.
- Online Application is available at https://www.dbs.ie/courses/full-time-degrees-certificates/higher-certificate-in-sound-engineering-and-music-production.
- Fees for EU students are €5,995 per annum.
- More information about the program can be found at https://www.dbs.ie/courses/full-time-degrees-certificates/higher-certificate-in-sound-engineering-and-music-production.
The fees for Sound Engineering and Music Production are €5,995 per annum for EU students. Click here to view international fees. Click here to view EU fees. You can also contact our admissions team who will also be able to advise on the payment options available to you. Fees quoted cover the annual cost of tuition, registration and examinations and are EU fees only.Non-EU students please refer to the International section of the website.Please note also that tax relief is available on fees for Irish income tax payers at the standard rate of 20% on all fees exceeding €3,000 and up to €7,000.
Dublin Business School: A Summarization
Overview:
Dublin Business School (DBS) is an independent college located in the heart of Dublin, Ireland. It is part of Kaplan Inc., a global provider of education services. DBS has a strong reputation for its quality of teaching and its commitment to providing a positive learning experience.
Services Offered:
DBS offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Academic Programs:
Full-time and part-time degrees, certificates, diplomas, postgraduate programs, professional accountancy programs, and online courses.Student Support:
Academic support, career advice, personal attention, disability support, and student welfare services.Campus Life:
Sports clubs, societies, student events, and a thriving student community.Library Resources:
Access to a vast collection of print and online books, journals, and databases.Virtual Learning Environment:
Moodle platform for lecture notes, support materials, and online learning resources.Student Life and Campus Experience:
DBS provides a vibrant and supportive campus environment. Students have the opportunity to join sports clubs and societies, participate in student events, and connect with a diverse student community. The college is located in the heart of Dublin, offering easy access to the city's cultural attractions, entertainment venues, and employment opportunities.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Ladder of Opportunity:
DBS offers a flexible range of programs that allow students to progress their careers.City Centre Location:
The college is situated in the heart of Dublin, providing a dynamic and convenient learning environment.Student Support:
DBS provides comprehensive support services to ensure students succeed academically and personally.World-Class Teaching:
The college has a strong reputation for its high-quality teaching and commitment to student learning.Academic Programs:
DBS offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines, including:
Business & Management:
Accounting & Finance, Marketing & Event Management, Business & Management, Professional Accountancy.Arts:
Psychology & Social Science, Counselling and Psychotherapy, Media & Journalism.Information Technology:
Computing, Data Analytics, Fintech.Law:
Law.Other:
DBS is recognized and accredited by Quality & Qualifications Ireland (QQI). The college also offers free and partially funded Springboard+ and HCI courses in various fields, including Business and Digital, Computing, Analytics, Fund Accounting, and Fintech.
Entry Requirements:
EU Home Students:
- Leaving Certificate: Minimum of 180 points.
- Higher Certificate in Music or Music Production: Minimum of 180 points.
- Mature Applicants: If you are over 23 years of age on the 1st of January on the year of admission and do not meet the minimum entry requirements, you may apply as a Mature Student.
- QQI Level 5: Merit in the relevant QQI Level 5 qualification.
- Other Equivalent Qualifications: Equivalent qualifications, such as an Access Diploma, may be considered.
International Overseas Students:
- GCE A-Levels: Minimum of 4 subjects at grade C or above.
- International Baccalaureate Diploma: Minimum of 24 points.
- National High School Diploma: Minimum of 80% average.
- English Language Proficiency: Applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate proficiency in English. Accepted tests include:
- IELTS (Academic) with a minimum overall score of 6.5.
- TOEFL (iBT) with a minimum overall score of 90.
- PTE (Academic) with a minimum overall score of 65.
- Other Equivalent Qualifications: Equivalent qualifications may be considered. ## Language Proficiency Requirements:
The minimum scores required for these tests are:
- IELTS (Academic): 6.5 overall, with at least 6.0 in each individual band.
- TOEFL (iBT): 90 overall, with at least 20 in each individual section.
- PTE (Academic): 65 overall, with at least 58 in each individual skill.
Meeting these requirements does not guarantee admission to the program.