Sound, Light and Live Event Engineering BSc (Hons)
| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2025-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
Sound, Light and Live Event Engineering BSc (Hons)
Overview
This innovative BSc (Hons) Sound, Light and Live Event Engineering degree is engineering-based and draws on the technical basis of electronics, computer and software systems, acoustic, sound technology, and professional practices.
Course Description
The course covers a broad range of subjects, from lighting technology, audio engineering, video systems, live streaming, power distribution, and rigging to electronics, computer networks, acoustics, computer-aided design, and simulation. You will learn both the theory and practice relating to the underlying technologies and develop hands-on skills by planning and delivering real live events.
Industry Links
The degree is built on close links with industry through ongoing engagement with graduates who have taken up professional roles, as well as our many industry contacts. You will benefit from regular guest speakers, from sound engineers to tour managers, and will have the opportunity to go on field trips to get real-life experience.
Facilities
You will have access to our extensive equipment, housed in the following facilities:
- Hemi-Anechoic Chamber: A specialist acoustic environment with 'dead sound' and dedicated test equipment.
- Auditorium 3: The main practical teaching space for students on the degree, with 12 1-tonne rigging points and 3-phase power.
- Entertainment Technology Lab: An experimental lab with permanently installed tests and equipment for programming and preparing shows.
- Multi-Channel Sound Lab: A Dante audio-equipped room with 32 loudspeakers for investigating immersive audio applications.
- Sound Technology Lab: A lab for small-scale acoustic testing, with a small anechoic chamber and a vintage hearing test booth.
Teaching Team
The teaching team has a remarkable range of experience across the sector, with some still practicing in the industry around their teaching. They include:
- Kit Lane: Programme Leader with over 30 years of experience in live events and professional theatre.
- Dr. Adam Hill: Associate Professor of Electroacoustics with research interests in audio engineering and industry experience as a live sound engineer.
- Jon Burton: Lecturer with 35 years of experience as a sound engineer, primarily in concert touring.
- Dr. Bruce Wiggins: Lecturer with a research interest in audio signal processing and immersive audio, and industry experience in software development.
- Mark Dring: Lecturer with a research focus on the reproduction and auralisation of sound in acoustically small spaces.
Careers
We have an excellent employment track record, and our graduates work in all areas of the entertainment industry. You could work as an engineer at a hire or production company, specifying, designing, and operating sound, lighting, staging, and video systems, or as a theatre technical manager.
Entry Requirements
- UCAS points: 104
- A Level: BCC (at least a grade C in either a Science or Technology-related subject)
- T Level: Merit in Engineering, Manufacturing, Processing and Control, Design and Development for Engineering and Manufacturing, Maintenance, Installation and Repair for Engineering and Manufacturing, Media, Broadcast and Production
- BTEC: DMM
- GCSE: Maths and English Grade 4/Grade C (or above)
- Access to HE: Pass Access to HE Diploma with 60 credits: 45 at Level 3 with a minimum of Distinction: 15, Merit: 24, Pass: 6
Fees and Funding
- UK: £9,535 per year (2025/26)
- International: £16,900 per year (2025/26)
How to Apply
Please look at our application deadlines before you apply. You can apply through UCAS or directly to the University. If you are an international student, you can apply through our online application portal or contact one of our trusted local representatives.
University of Derby Summary
Overview:
The University of Derby is a public university located in Derby, England. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, as well as short courses and research degrees. The university is known for its commitment to teaching excellence and its focus on applied research.
Services Offered:
The University of Derby provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:
Academic Support:
Student support services, including academic advising, career counseling, and study skills workshops.Campus and Facilities:
Modern facilities, including libraries, computer labs, and sports facilities.Fees and Finance:
Information on tuition fees, scholarships, and financial aid options.International Students:
Dedicated support for international students, including visa guidance and cultural integration programs.Employability:
Career development services, including job search assistance, internship opportunities, and employer networking events.Student Life and Campus Experience:
The University of Derby offers a vibrant and diverse campus experience, with a range of opportunities for students to engage in extracurricular activities, including:
Accommodation:
On-campus and off-campus housing options for students.Clubs and Societies:
A wide variety of clubs and societies catering to diverse interests.Sport at Derby:
Opportunities to participate in a range of sports, both competitive and recreational.Union of Students:
A student-led organization that represents student interests and provides support services.Key Reasons to Study There:
Teaching Excellence:
The university has been awarded Gold in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF), recognizing its commitment to high-quality teaching and learning.Applied Research:
The university is known for its applied research, which has a real-world impact on society and industry.Student Satisfaction:
The university consistently ranks highly in student satisfaction surveys.Vibrant Campus Life:
The university offers a vibrant and diverse campus experience, with a range of opportunities for students to engage in extracurricular activities.Strong Employability:
The university has a strong track record of helping students find employment after graduation.Academic Programs:
The University of Derby offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Undergraduate Programs:
BA, BSc, FdA, FdSc degrees in various disciplines.Postgraduate Programs:
MA, MSc, PhD degrees in various disciplines.Short Courses:
A range of short courses for professional development and personal enrichment.Other:
The university is committed to its civic mission and plays an active role in the local community. It has a strong focus on sustainability and social responsibility.
