HNC in Sound Engineering

Turn your passion for sound into a professional future. Explore the art, science, and business of sound in this dynamic Higher National programme. Designed for aspiring producers, engineers, and music innovators, the HNC and HND in Sound Engineering blend technical mastery with creative exploration, preparing you for a diverse career in the ever-evolving world of music and audio.

Learn in professional studios with industry-standard equipment, work on real-world projects with creative peers, develop both technical expertise and creative confidence, and build a portfolio that reflects your unique sound and vision. Step into the mix — and shape the future of sound.

Entry Requirements include:

• a BTEC Level 3 qualification in Sound Engineering
• a GCE Advanced Level profile that demonstrates strong performance in a relevant
  subject or adequate performance in more than one GCE subject. This profile is
  likely to be supported by GCSE grades at 9 to 4 or A* to C (or equivalent) in
  subjects such as maths and English
• other related Level 3 qualifications
• an Access to Higher Education Diploma from an approved further education institution
• relevant work experience

Contextual Knowledge – Music in a Changing World

Discover how music and sound shape — and are shaped by — society, technology, and culture. From the rise of AI-driven creativity and the rebirth of vinyl, to global political movements and digital economies, you’ll explore how context fuels innovation in sound.

You’ll study:

• Music’s social, political, and technological influences
• Global genres and the evolution of music production
• The impact of AI in sound design and composition
• Industry shifts: from DIY production to global distribution

Creative Project Development

Bring your sound ideas to life through hands-on creative projects. You’ll research, plan, and produce your own original work — whether it’s a live performance, an EP, a soundtrack, or a collaborative session.

Learn to:

• Develop project briefs and creative strategies
• Analyse markets, audiences, and trends
• Generate innovative ideas using modern and vintage techniques
• Reflect critically and adapt creatively

Technical Mastery

Step inside the studio — physically and digitally. From microphones and mixing desks to DAWs and mastering chains, you’ll build professional-level technical fluency through practical sessions and industry-standard workflows.

Skills include:

• Recording and mixing with cutting-edge and vintage tech
• Mastering for multiple formats
• Studio and live sound setup
• Acoustic theory and sound design
• MIDI programming and digital audio technology

Applied Sound Principles and Synthesis

Understand how sound behaves, interacts, and inspires. Learn the physics of sound, human perception, and how to sculpt sonic textures using synthesis, modulation, and digital tools.

You’ll explore:

• Waveforms, harmonics, and frequency theory
• Subtractive synthesis and signal flow
• Sound propagation and psychoacoustics
• Programming creative synth patches and soundscapes

Professional Practice

Prepare for a thriving career in the modern music industry. You’ll explore industry structures, freelancing, branding, ethics, and sustainability, gaining the professional awareness needed to build a lasting creative career.

Topics include:

• Freelance business skills and networking
• Music rights, copyright, and licensing
• Health, safety, and well-being for sound professionals
• Sustainable practices and ethical production
• Equality, diversity, and accessibility in the arts

Communication & Collaboration

Develop your professional voice. You’ll learn how to communicate, collaborate, and promote your work across platforms — from live gigs and podcasts to music videos and social media campaigns.

You’ll practice:

• Communicating ideas to clients and audiences
• Producing promotional content and press materials
• Pitching and presenting projects
• Engaging audiences through storytelling and branding

Progression routes include careers such as:

• Studio or Live Sound Engineer
• Music Producer or Composer
• Mastering Engineer or Mix Specialist
• DJ, Songwriter, or Arranger
• Sound Designer for Film, TV, or Games
• Music Educator or Creative Entrepreneur

To join this course please click the Register Interest button to receive an email with a unique link and instructions to register with UCAS at www.ucas.com and then apply through UCAS.

You will then receive a confirmation email from UCAS and the college will be in contact with an interview date. Current Shrewsbury Colleges Group students should seek support from their tutor before applying.

If after reading this fact sheet, you are still undecided about the programme most suitable for you, please drop into one of our advice events, ring the Admissions Team on 01743 653333 or email courseadvice@scg.ac.uk