MSc Audio Forensics and Restoration

Program Overview

This MSc program trains students in the emerging fields of audio forensics and restoration, equipping them with the skills to analyze and authenticate audio evidence for law enforcement or preserve media heritage for future generations. Through practical assessments and a student-centered approach, the program prepares students for careers as audio forensic specialists, restoration specialists, and other related roles in the media industry.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

This program prepares students from diverse backgrounds for careers in forensic audio and audio restoration, utilizing cutting-edge methods and technology. It caters to individuals interested in using their skills to combat crime in the digital age or preserve media heritage for future generations.

Objectives:

• Convert and apply existing Audio/Science skills, qualifications, and experience to enhance employability in the emerging fields of Audio Forensics and Media Restoration.
• Equip students with the knowledge and skills to operate within the proposed ISO frameworks of Modern Digital Forensic Services.
• Prepare students for careers in specialist areas of the modern media industry.

Description:

The program is designed to meet the exacting standards of both the Audio Forensics and Media Restoration industries. It integrates and complements processes and techniques to help students convert their existing qualifications and skills into high-value specializations.

Audio Forensics Modules:

• Equip students for careers working with or for law enforcement, supporting investigations as modern digital forensic providers.
• Develop skills in authenticating, analyzing, and enhancing audio evidence to the standards required by law.
• This skillset is highly sought after in crime detection.

Restoration Modules:

• Build and broaden audio skills.
• Equip students with the knowledge to operate and support emerging areas in commercial media, making 20th-century media accessible to a 21st-century audience.
• Prepare students for careers in areas like preparing classic film soundtracks for re-release, preserving archive musical performances, and restoring analogue recordings for modern streaming distribution.

Assessment:

• Assessment is through practical activities and coursework.

Teaching:

• Classroom contact is approximately 13 hours per week in Semester 1 and 11 hours per week in Semester 2.
• Self-study brings the total study time to 60 hours per week.
• Teaching methods include lectures, tutorials, and practice sessions.
• A student-centered approach is used in practice sessions, encouraging "learn by doing."
• Learning is heavily focused on applied learning related to audio restoration/forensics.

Careers:

• Audio Forensic Specialist
• Audio Restoration Specialist
• Multimedia Restoration Specialist
• Digital CSI technician
• Academic research and education
• Private Audio forensic expert witness
• Corporate archivist

Other:

• The program is currently undergoing a scheduled program review, which may impact the advertised modules.
• The University operates a policy of consultation, advice, and support to all enrolled students affected by proposed changes to their course or module.

Tuition Fees access to programme-appropriate software library and student IT support free on-campus wifi via eduroam

Additional costs

Although not all of the following are compulsory/relevant, you should keep in mind the costs of: accommodation and living expenditure books (should you wish to have your own copies) printing, photocopying and stationery PC/laptop (should you prefer to purchase your own for independent study and online learning activities) mobile phone/tablet (to access online services) field trips (travel and activity costs) placements (travel expenses and living costs) student visas (international students only) study abroad opportunities (travel costs, accommodation, visas and immunisations) academic conferences (travel costs) professional-body membership access to programme-appropriate software library and student IT support free on-campus wifi via eduroam

Additional costs

Although not all of the following are compulsory/relevant, you should keep in mind the costs of: accommodation and living expenditure books (should you wish to have your own copies) printing, photocopying and stationery PC/laptop (should you prefer to purchase your own for independent study and online learning activities) mobile phone/tablet (to access online services) field trips (travel and activity costs) placements (travel expenses and living costs) student visas (international students only) study abroad opportunities (travel costs, accommodation, visas and immunisations) academic conferences (travel costs) professional-body membership £9,920 International full-time per year

£18,250