Program Overview

Sound, Light and Live Event Engineering with Foundation Year BSc (Hons)

Course Description

This degree prepares students for a technical career in the live events industry, with a focus on sound, light, and live event engineering. The course covers a broad range of subjects, including lighting technology, audio engineering, video systems, live streaming, power distribution, and rigging.

Study Options

• Full-time: 4 Years
• UK fee: £9,535 per year (2025/26)
• International fee: £16,900 per year (2025/26)
• UCAS points: 72 (September 2025 entry)
• UCAS code: HJ3X
• Start date: September
• Location: Markeaton Street, Derby Campus

Course Details

Foundation Year

The foundation year is designed to give students a head start in their academic and professional life. It provides the opportunity to strengthen skills, knowledge, and confidence before advancing to stage one of the honors degree.

Year 1

• Event and Media Technology
• Foundation Electrical and Electronic Principles
• Preliminary Mathematics
• Scholarship for Technologists
• Technology Project

Year 2

• Core modules:
  • Event and Media Technology
  • Foundation Electrical and Electronic Principles
  • Preliminary Mathematics
  • Scholarship for Technologists
  • Technology Project

Optional Placement Year

Students have the opportunity to take an optional work placement between stages two and three, during which they will gain an additional qualification, the Diploma in Professional Practice.

Year 3

• Core modules:
  • Event and Media Technology
  • Foundation Electrical and Electronic Principles
  • Preliminary Mathematics
  • Scholarship for Technologists
  • Technology Project

Teaching and Learning

• Real-world learning through guest lectures, product demonstrations, and venue visits
• Opportunities for work experience and placements
• Access to industry-standard equipment and facilities

Assessment

• Laboratory and practical exercises
• Written reports and exams
• Group projects, including venue and event evaluations

Careers

• Excellent employment track record
• Graduates work in all areas of the entertainment industry
• Opportunities for freelance work, setting up own businesses, or progressing to postgraduate studies

Entry Requirements

• UCAS points: 72
• A Level: DDD
• T Level: Pass
• BTEC: MMP
• GCSE: Maths and English Grade 4/Grade C (or above) or equivalent qualification
• Access to HE: Pass Access to HE Diploma with 60 credits: 45 at Level 3 with a minimum of Distinction: 0, Merit: 30, Pass: 15
• English language requirements: IELTS: 6.0 (with at least 5.5 in each skills area)

Fees and Funding

• UK fee: £9,535 per year (2025/26)
• International fee: £16,900 per year (2025/26)
• Additional costs and optional extras:
  • Computer Accessories: approx. £50
  • Workshop material: approx. £100
  • Additional expenses for final year project: approx. £50
  • Steel toecap safety footwear: approx. £20-40
  • Personal computer or tablet computer: approx. £500

How to Apply

• UK students: Apply through UCAS or directly to the University
• International students: Apply through the University's online application portal or through a trusted local representative

Discover Uni

• Full-time: Sound, Light and Live Event Engineering with Foundation Year at University of Derby
• Visit Discover Uni for official information about this course and others.