| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-05-01 | - |
| 2024-09-01 | - |
| 2025-01-01 | - |
| 2025-05-01 | - |
| 2025-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
With a focus on applied research, students benefit from world-class laboratories, industry partnerships, and expert faculty supervision. Graduates are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and experience to pursue successful careers in research, industry, and academia.
Program Outline
Degree Overview
Objectives
- Develop a research career in the field of acoustics and audio.
- Gain advanced knowledge and understanding of acoustics and audio principles.
- Cultivate the ability to independently conduct research and solve complex problems. With over 60 years of research experience, the University of Salford boasts a distinguished reputation in the field. Students in this program benefit from world-class laboratories and access to research opportunities supported by industry partners, research councils and government bodies. This allows them to engage in research that has real-world impact and contributes to advancements in the field. The program covers a diverse range of research areas, including:
- Architectural and Building Acoustics
- Audio
- Environmental Noise and Soundscapes
- Psychoacoustics
- Signal Processing
- Materials
- Vibro-acoustics Graduates of the program find themselves working for leading companies such as Arup, Apple, BBC, Google and the NHS, as well as academic positions in universities around the world.
Outline
Program Length:
- 1 year for a Master of Research (MRes) full-time or 2 years part-time
- 1 year for a Master of Phylosophy (MPhil) full-time or 2 years part-time
- 3 years for a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) full-time or 5 years part-time
Program Content:
The program consists of a combination of coursework and research. Coursework modules will provide students with the foundational knowledge and skills necessary for conducting research in acoustics and audio. Additionally, each year will involve research modules, where students undertake their individual research project under the supervision of an expert faculty member.
Individual Modules:
The specific modules offered within the program may vary depending on the chosen pathway, however, some potential module titles include:
- Acoustics and Audio Fundamentals
- Research Methods
- Signal Processing for Acoustics and Audio
- Architectural and Building Acoustics
- Environmental Noise and Soundscapes
- Psychoacoustics Students are encouraged to discuss their specific research interests with the program director to determine the most relevant modules for their chosen pathway.
Assessment
Assessment Methods:
Assessment methods will vary depending on the modules, but generally may include:
- Written assignments
- Research reports
- Presentations
- Oral examinations
Assessment Criteria:
Students are assessed based on their ability to:
- Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the subject matter
- Apply knowledge to complex problems
- Conduct research independently and effectively
- Communicate research findings effectively in writing and orally
- Critically analyze and evaluate research
Teaching
The program is delivered by a team of internationally renowned academics and researchers with expertise in various areas of acoustics and audio. The program adopts a flexible teaching approach, incorporating:
- Interactive lectures
- Small-group tutorials
- Independent research work
- Opportunities for collaboration with industry and research partners
Unique Approach:
- Strong focus on applied research with real-world impact.
- Opportunities to work on collaborative research projects with industry partners.
- Access to state-of-the-art facilities and equipment for research.
- A supportive and enriching research environment with regular seminars, conferences, and networking opportunities.
Careers
Graduates of the Acoustics and Audio postgraduate research program are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and experience to pursue successful careers in various sectors:
- Research
- Industry
- Consultancy
- Academia
- Government Potential job titles for graduates include:
- Research Scientist
- Acoustics Engineer
- Audio Engineer
- Noise Consultant
- University Lecturer The program equips graduates with the knowledge, skills, and research experience to excel in their chosen career paths and contribute meaningfully to the field of acoustics and audio.
Other
- Program also welcomes applications from individuals with backgrounds in experimental psychology, geography, audio production, music technology, or architecture, as long as they demonstrate experience with scientific methodologies.
- The University offers a wide range of scholarships and funding opportunities to support postgraduate research students.
- The University boasts a vibrant research culture with opportunities to participate in research seminars, conferences, and workshops.
University of Salford: A Summary
Overview:
The University of Salford is a public university located in Salford, Greater Manchester, England. It is known for its strong focus on practical learning and its close ties to industry. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines.
Student Life and Campus Experience:
The university provides a vibrant campus experience with a range of facilities and activities for students. These include:
Accommodation:
The university offers a variety of accommodation options, including on-campus residences and private apartments.Sports Centre:
Students can stay active and healthy by joining the university's sports centre, which offers a wide range of activities.Clubs and Societies:
Students can join a variety of clubs and societies to meet new people and pursue their interests.Library:
The university library provides students with access to a wide range of resources, including books, journals, and online databases.Cafe and Dining:
The campus has several cafes and dining options for students to enjoy.Key Reasons to Study There:
Practical Learning:
The university emphasizes practical learning, with many programs incorporating hands-on experience and industry placements.Industry Connections:
The university has strong ties to industry, providing students with opportunities for internships, placements, and networking.Location:
The university is located in Salford, a vibrant city with easy access to Manchester city centre.Modern Facilities:
The university has invested in modern facilities, including a state-of-the-art sports centre and a new library.Other:
The university offers a variety of student support services, including academic advising, career counseling, and mental health support. It also has a strong commitment to research, with a focus on areas such as energy, healthcare, and technology.
Entry Requirements:
Applicant Profile:
- Background: Applicants typically hold a first degree in engineering or scientific practice, such as mechanical engineering, physics, acoustical engineering, applied science, electrical engineering, architectural engineering, or civil engineering.
- Other backgrounds: Applicants with degrees in experimental psychology, geography, audio production, music technology, or architecture may be considered, provided they have experience with scientific methodologies.
- Supervisory team: As a postgraduate research student, you will be assigned a supervisory team to guide and mentor you throughout your studies.
- Responsibilities: You will be expected to manage your learning and be proactive in seeking support and initiating discussions.
- Interviews: All applicants are required to attend an interview.
Academic Qualifications:
PhD:
- First or upper-second class undergraduate degree or equivalent.
- Relevant postgraduate diploma or Master's degree.
MRes:
- First or upper-second-class undergraduate degree or equivalent.
English Language Requirements:
- International applicants: An IELTS score of 6.5 or equivalent is required.
- Applicants may be considered through the Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) process, which recognizes relevant work or life experience.
- Two forms of APL are available: Accreditation of Prior Certificated Learning (APCL) and Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL).
