Single Module Room Acoustics, Level 7 (15 Credits)

Program Overview

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Single Module Room Acoustics, Level 7 (15 Credits)

Overview

The Room Acoustics module aims to provide students with a thorough grasp of room acoustics principles, including theoretical models for both low and high frequencies, developing their ability to apply these in order to analyse existing rooms or design new ones.

Course Details

• Attendance: Part-time
• Distance Learning: Available
• Course Duration: One semester
• Next Enrolment: September 2025

Introduction

The Room Acoustics module is drawn from the MSc/PgDip Acoustics programme and is offered standalone to cater for the needs of those who only require training in one specialist area, e.g., for CPD purposes in relevant industries.

What You Will Learn

• Develop a systematic understanding of room acoustics modelling and design principles, e.g., for both low and high frequencies
• Apply room acoustic theory to solve practical acoustic problems with specific application to enclosed spaces, for example, the design of a critical listening space
• Build an understanding of how sound in rooms is perceived and how this affects how room acoustics is assessed

International Students

International students are accepted onto this course.

Course Structure

• Teaching: Learning is mainly delivered using tutorial and seminar groups. Interaction is face-to-face wherever practical, but web-based learning support packages (databases of materials, discussion boards etc.) are also used. There is a strong focus on guided self-learning.
• Assessment: Each module features one substantial written assignment to test the learning outcomes and cover the syllabus. The assignments are based around ‘open-ended’ design exercises and case studies based on realistic problems.

School of Science, Engineering and Environment

The School of Science, Engineering and Environment offers postgraduate courses designed to shape the next generation of urbanists, scientists, engineers, consultants, and leaders.

Facilities

• Campus-based students: Will experience a modern learning environment, featuring accessible lecture theatres, AV-equipped classrooms, computing suites, and multimedia libraries.
• Distance learners: Will experience the Collaborate Ultra platform, with real-time and on-demand materials.
• Acoustics students: Will interact with world-class facilities, including full and semi-anechoic chambers, a transmission suite, large and small reverberation chambers, an ITU standard listening room, audiometric test facilities, and a range of advanced instrumentation and equipment.

Industry Collaboration & Research

The University of Salford has strong industry links and collaborations, ensuring that the programme is aligned with the latest research findings and developments.

Employment and Stats

• Employment: Acousticians with engineering, science, and mathematical skills are in short supply, which puts students in a strong position to build a career.
• Career Development: The Acoustics postgraduate single modules can help students specialise their knowledge in the areas of acoustics that they're most interested in to help their career development, e.g., for CPD in a specific area that they are currently employed in or are seeking a job in.

Requirements

• Applicant Profile: The Acoustics postgraduate modules are recommended for numerate science graduates and professionals who require education in specific areas of Acoustics.
• English Language Requirements: All courses are taught and assessed in English. If English is not the first language, students must meet the minimum English language entry requirements. An IELTS score of 6.0 (no element below 5.5) is proof of this, however, the University also accepts a range of equivalent qualifications.
• International Students - ACADEMIC TECHNOLOGY APPROVAL SCHEME (ATAS): International students are required by the Home Office and/or the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) to apply for an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) Certificate before they begin their studies.

Entry Requirements

• Undergraduate Degree: An undergraduate award at 2:2 or above (or equivalent) in science, engineering, or mathematics.
• Alternative Entry Requirements: Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) may be used for entry onto courses or to give exemptions from parts of the course.

Fees

• Type of Study: Distance learning UK, Part-time UK, Distance learning International, Part-time International
• Year: 2025/26
• Fees: £1,730 per 30 credits (Distance learning UK), £885 per 15 credits (Part-time UK), £2,840 per 30 credits (Distance learning International), £1,420 per 15 credits (Part-time International)

Additional Costs

Students should also consider further costs which may include books, stationery, printing, binding, and general subsistence on trips and visits.

Program Outline

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Description:

This module, drawn from the MSc/PgDip Acoustics program, caters to professionals seeking specialized training in room acoustics for CPD purposes or specific career needs. It focuses on the development of systematic understanding & application of room acoustics modelling and design principles.

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Key takeaways:

• Develop a systematic understanding of room acoustics modelling and design principles
• Apply room acoustic theory to solve practical problems in enclosed spaces
• Understand how sound in rooms is perceived and how it affects room acoustics assessment

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Outline:

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Content:

• Wave theory and statistical theory for acoustic enclosures
• Objective descriptions of sound and their alignment with listeners' perceptions
• Techniques for designing and applying sound absorbing and scattering treatments
• Effectiveness and limitations of treatments in application areas

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Structure:

• Delivered through tutorial and seminar groups
• Face-to-face interaction whenever practical, with web-based learning support
• Guided self-learning with online access to materials and discussion boards

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Course Schedule:

• Weekly program of directed reading, study guide, and tutorial questions
• Exact modules may vary depending on factors like student interest

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Assessment:

• One substantial written assignment to assess learning outcomes and cover syllabus
• Assignments based on open-ended design exercises and realistic case studies

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Teaching:

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Methods:

• Face-to-face and streamed online sessions
• Interactive learning with real-time Q&A for both online and in-person cohorts

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Faculty:

• Supported by program teams with industry and research experience
• Interact with world-class facilities for acoustics research and testing

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Unique Approaches:

• Co-taught format for in-person and distance learning cohorts
• Flexibility for students to participate beyond live sessions through recordings and forums

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Careers:

• Acoustics professionals with engineering, science, and mathematical skills are in high demand
• This module can help specialize knowledge for career development or CPD
• Growing noise management needs offer opportunities in consultancy, audio engineering research, and product development
• Alumni work in leading companies like Apple, Dolby, BBC, and major acoustic consultancies

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Other:

• Further study options include full MSc Acoustics program or research opportunities
• The program aligns with latest research findings and developments through industry links
• Recent projects include collaborations with Dyson, BBC, and others
• Regular research outputs shared with industry partners and acoustics network
• Masterclasses provide insights into various aspects of the acoustics field

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Summary:

The Single Module Room Acoustics program offers a valuable opportunity for professionals to gain specialized knowledge and skills in this field. With its comprehensive curriculum, experienced faculty, and diverse career options, it equips students to excel in their chosen career paths.

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| Type of study | Year | Fees | |---|---|---| | Distance learning UK | 2024/25 | £832.50 per 15 credits | | Part-time UK | 2024/25 | £850 per 15 credits | | Distance Learning International | 2024/25 | £1,365 per 15 credits | | Part-time International | 2024/25 | £1,365 per 15 credits |