BSc (Hons) Live Sound, Lighting and Performance Technology

Program Overview

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This program combines creativity and technical aspects of music production and live performance, preparing graduates for successful careers in various areas of live event production.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview

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BSc (Hons) Live Sound, Lighting and Performance Technology

is a program offered by the University of Hertfordshire's School of Creative Arts. It equips students with the knowledge and skills to handle and design audio systems, video, lighting, augmentation, and virtual reality through the lens of broadcast and live events. This program focuses on combining creativity and technical aspects of music production and live performance.

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Objectives:

• Equip students with the expertise and skills for multi-sector positions and disciplines in the live event industry.
• Immerse students in the future of live entertainment and cutting-edge technology.
• Provide a hands-on, practical learning experience with access to state-of-the-art facilities.
• Foster collaboration between students, professionals, and industry experts.
• Prepare graduates for successful careers in various areas of live event production.

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Outline

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Structure:

• Full-time: 3 years
• Part-time: 6 years
• Sandwich: 4 years (includes an optional work placement year)

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Course Content:

• Level 4
• Technologies 1: The Art and Science of Modern Music Making
• Music Business 1: Strategies and Skills for a Successful Music Career
• Audio 1: Twenty to Twenty Thousand Hertz
• Audio Projects 1
• Level 5
• Technologies 2: Advanced Techniques for Pro-Level Production
• Audio 2: Advanced Application and Design
• Stage Projects 2
• Your Personal Playlist 2: Studies and Investigations
• Level 6
• Technologies 3: Innovative Techniques for Creatives
• Music Industry 3: Employability, Innovation, Enterprise
• Showcase Portfolio (Stage)

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Module Descriptions:

• Technologies 1: Introduces the core principles of audio capture, manipulation, output, and delivery using Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs).
• Audio 1: Explores acoustics, sound-projection, microphone technique, and recording in different spaces and venues.
• Audio Projects 1: Introduces practical audio and event engineering technologies, studio- and location-based sound, and live event sound and lighting technologies.
• Technologies 2: Builds upon foundational knowledge with advanced DAW techniques, including sequencing, synthesis, virtual instruments, surround sound, mixing, and mastering.
• Audio 2: Advances technical understanding by delving into studio and audio-system design, advanced sound routing, audio restoration, remastering, and immersive audio.
• Stage Projects 2: Enhances knowledge and skills in live sound and lighting engineering, alongside lighting and projection mapping design, and live event mixing and production.
• Your Personal Playlist 2: Fosters independent thought and investigation through an independent study and two chosen topics from a range of options.
• Technologies 3: Explores experimental and advanced technology applications for original sound and timbre creation, sound-morphing, and blending.
• Music Industry 3: Broadens the student's perspective of the music industry with emerging trends, challenges, and innovations.
• Showcase Portfolio (Stage): Facilitates the creation of major project pieces demonstrating areas of interest, specialism, and collaborative work, serving as a showcase for potential employers or clients.

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Assessment

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Assessment Methods:

• Written assignments: critical analysis, research papers, case studies.
• Practical projects: audio productions, sound design work, lighting and stage designs.
• Presentations: defending research findings, presenting creative concepts.
• Portfolio development: showcasing skills and accomplishments throughout the program.

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Assessment Criteria:

• Technical accuracy and understanding of subject matter.
• Creativity and originality in project development and execution.
• Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Communication skills, written and oral.
• Teamwork and collaboration abilities.

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Teaching

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Teaching Methods:

• Interactive lectures: Engaging presentations by experienced faculty.
• Workshops: Hands-on sessions applying theoretical knowledge in practical settings.
• One-to-one tutorials: Personalized guidance and feedback from professors.
• Collaborative projects: Working with peers on various tasks and productions.

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Careers

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Potential Career Paths:

• Front of House Engineer
• Monitor Engineer
• Systems Engineer
• Touring Engineer
• Sound Designer
• Lighting Designer

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Career Opportunities:

• Universal Music
• EMI
• Sony Music
• BBC
• Live event production companies
• Music studios
• Independent artistic collaborations

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Graduate Outcomes:

• Strong portfolio demonstrating practical skills and creative talents.
• Industry-level proficiency in audio technologies, live sound, and lighting design.
• Advanced theoretical knowledge and understanding of the music industry.
• Effective communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
• Preparation for a variety of careers in the live event production industry.

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Other

• Optional sandwich year: Gain professional experience and enhance employability through a year-long work placement in the industry.
• Study abroad options: Expand global perspectives and broaden skillsets through international exchange programs.
• State-of-the-art facilities: Access dedicated live sound and lighting stages, music studios, and specialized performance spaces.

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Tuition fees are charged annually. The fees quoted above are for the specified year(s) only. Fees may be higher in future years, for both new and continuing students.

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UK students

Full time: £9,250 for the 2024/2025 academic year Part time: £1,155 per 15 credits for the 2024/2025 academic year

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EU students

Full time: £15,550 for the 2024/2025 academic year Part time: £1,940 per 15 credits for the 2024/2025 academic year

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International students

Full time: £15,550 for the 2024/2025 academic year Part time: £1,940 per 15 credits for the 2024/2025 academic year