Single Module Loudspeakers and Microphones, Level 7 (15 Credits)

Program Overview

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Single Module Loudspeakers and Microphones, Level 7 (15 Credits)

Overview

This single module is drawn from our MSc/PgDip Acoustics programme. It 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.

Introduction

In the Loudspeakers and Microphones module, you will learn about the fundamental principles underlying electroacoustic transduction as well as investigating the interaction between a source, its acoustic environment and the listener. These effects will be described by mathematical models, which you will study both on paper and numerically by programming them using Matlab.

Course Details

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

What You Will Learn

• Analyse and design loudspeakers and microphone transducers using lumped parameter techniques
• Understand the interaction between acoustic sources and their environment, and how multiple transducers are used in arrays
• Demonstrate this knowledge by solving modelling problems numerically in Matlab

Teaching

• Learning is mainly delivered using tutorial and seminar groups.
• Interaction is face-to-face wherever practical, but we also use web-based learning support packages (databases of materials, discussion boards etc.).
• 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

• Rising to the challenge of a changing world, our postgraduate courses are designed to shape the next generation of urbanists, scientists, engineers, consultants and leaders.
• Driven by industry and delivered by supportive programme teams, you can develop the knowledge and skills to take your career potential further.

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 our Collaborate Ultra platform, with real-time and on-demand materials.
• As an acoustics student, you 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

• When you study acoustics at Salford, you are also joining a community making a difference in industry, our local region and in our wider society.
• Many of our academics and technicians who support your course also deliver collaborative, interdisciplinary, high-impact work in a range of local and global issues and challenges with noise, sound and vibration.

Employment and Stats

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

Requirements

• Applicant Profile: Our Acoustics postgraduate modules are recommended for numerate science graduates and professionals who require education in specific areas of Acoustics.
• English Language Requirements: All of our courses are taught and assessed in English. If English is not your first language, you must meet our minimum English language entry requirements. An IELTS score of 6.0 (no element below 5.5) is proof of this, however we do accept 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 you exemptions from parts of your 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

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

Program Outline

• Explores the interaction between sound sources and the listener's environment.
• Focuses on learning the mathematical models for sound behavior and applying them through Matlab programming.
• Caters to individuals seeking specialized training for career development and CPD purposes in relevant industries.
(e.g., Acoustics professionals seeking a specific focus on loudspeaker/microphone technology).

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The program's goal is for students to:

• Analyze and design loudspeakers and microphones using specialized techniques.
• Understand the complex relationship between sound sources and environments.
• Gain experience with advanced loudspeaker/microphone systems in array configurations.
• Apply theoretical knowledge by resolving practical modeling scenarios through Matlab programming.

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Outline

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Content and structure:

• This module focuses on loudspeakers and microphones.
• Students will examine the interaction between sound sources and their surrounding environment.
• Emphasis is placed on the practical uses of loudspeakers and microphones.
• Specific applications in array configurations for spatial audio are investigated.

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Learning methods:

• Delivered through tutorials and seminars.
• In-person interaction prioritized with online support through virtual platforms.
• Strong focus on guided self-learning.
• Distance learners can participate in real-time or watch recordings later.

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Schedule and course modules:

• One semester program starting in January.
• Modules may vary based on student selection and current program developments.
• Weekly classes in 9 am - 6 pm UK timeframe.

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Assessment

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Methods:

• Each module is assessed through a single written assignment.
• Assignments typically involve "open-ended" design exercises and case studies based on real-world scenarios.

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Evaluation:

• Assignments tested against learning outcomes and program syllabus.

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Teaching

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Teaching approach:

• Guided self-learning is a core principle.
• In-person sessions are live-streamed for distance learners with real-time interaction.
• Recorded sessions and online forums offer additional support for remote learning.

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Faculty:

• World-class academics with experience in collaborative research projects.
• Faculty members also active in professional practice within diverse industry areas.

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Other

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Facilities:

• Access to advanced audio technology and industry-grade equipment.
• Full and semi-anechoic chambers, transmission suite, reverberation rooms, and audio test labs are available.

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Employability and Career Support:

• The program equips learners with in-demand skills in acoustics.
• Focuses on career advancement opportunities for acoustics professionals in diverse sectors like environmental consulting and audio engineering research.
• Many program graduates work in leading organizations including Apple, Dolby, BBC, and prominent acoustic consultancies globally.
• Further study options: This module may be applied towards the full MSc Acoustics program or as a standalone component for professional development.
• Industry Collaboration and Research:
• The program benefits from strong links to the professional acoustics field through research collaborations and commercially funded testing facilities.
• Recent projects encompass collaborative research with leading industry names like Dyson, BBC, Arup, and others.
• Students benefit from exposure to cutting-edge research and industry developments.

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| Type of study | Year | Fees | |---|---|---| | Distance learning UK | 2024/25 | £1665 per 30 credits | | Part-time UK | 2024/25 | £850 per 15 credits | | Distance Learning International | 2024/25 | £2730 per 30 credits | | Part-time International | 2024/25 | £1,365 per 15 credits |