BSc (Hons) Audio Engineering and Production Bachelor's degree at Futureworks
BSc (Hons) Audio Engineering and Production at Futureworks. You'll develop hands-on skills across sound design, mixing, mastering and production workflows, alongside the acoustic theory and digital tools that underpin them.
About this course
--> Audio Engineering and Production Degree Manchester | Futureworks Audio Engineering & Production BSc (Hons) Undergraduate Degree UCAS Code J9W3 Start Date 14/09/2026 Duration 3 Years full time UCAS Points 104-120 Places for September 2026. From the provider’s course page.
BSc (Hons) Audio Engineering and Production is a Bachelor's degree (BSc (Hons)) at Futureworks, based in Main Campus. It runs 3 years, studied full-time.
For Engineering graduates from this provider, 95% were in work or further study 15 months after graduating, 50% in highly skilled roles. (HESA Graduate Outcomes / LEO, via Discover Uni.)
For the typical curriculum, specialisations, career paths and graduate earnings for Engineering, see the sections below.
Course evidence score
The arithmetic mean of the official measures available for this course: NSS satisfaction, graduate activity and continuation.
Published threshold met NSS publication requires sufficient responses; small differences are not a rank. NSS mean of 7 published themes (Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)
Published threshold met Sample size is not included in this snapshot. Cohort 2022-23. Graduate Outcomes work or further study 95% (2022-23; Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)
Published threshold met Discover Uni suppresses continuation data below its publication threshold. Cohort 2022-23. Continuation 80% (2022-23; Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)
Curriculum & modules
Real modules published for this course, grouped only where the source gives a year, stage or level.
Year One 5 modules
- Recording 140 credits
Module details
This module provides a hands-on approach to studio recording, focusing on developing your ability to capture high-quality sound for a range of projects. From planning your recording sessions to mastering the technical skills of microphone placement and signal processing, you'll develop the ability to create professional-level recordings.
- Mixing Music20 credits
Module details
This module focuses on the core principles of music mixing, equipping you with the technical and creative skills essential for a modern mix engineer. You'll learn how to construct mixes, develop your technical and creative abilities while exploring the role mix engineers play in the music industry.
- Digital Tools20 credits
Module details
This module combines practical skill development with a deep dive into the underlying concepts of modern audio production. You'll learn to efficiently record, edit, mix, and process audio using non-linear and non-destructive methods. This module not only introduces you to the industry leading Avid Pro Tools, but also sets the stage for advanced practical work in all your future modules.
- Introducing Research20 credits
Module details
This module introduces you to academic research and writing. You'll work to investigate the impact of technological change across the audio industry, learn to interpret data and share your discoveries. This experience will provide you with valuable industry insight and the ability to apply your research skills to real-world contexts within your chosen field of study.
- Portfolio Development20 credits
Module details
This module builds essential skills in career planning within a competitive audio industry and is designed to nurture your independence and professional growth, developing the foundations of a compelling online portfolio to showcase your abilities and enhance your employability.
Year Two 3 modules
- Recording 220 credits
Module details
This module provides access to more advanced studio facilities, contributing to your development and critical understanding of established audio engineering practices, building essential skills to plan and execute professional-level production work.
- Mixing for Picture40 credits
Module details
This module equips you with essential skills for audio post-production, from sound design, dialogue editing and mixing to mastering industry-standard delivery formats. You'll gain practical experience working as part of a team, managing a project, simulating real-world scenarios, preparing you for the demands of the film audio industry.
- Mixing Techniques40 credits
Module details
This module takes your mixing experience to the next level, developing the ability to apply and adapt more advanced techniques and workflow. Building skills in creative editing, manipulating sound, adapting arrangements and advanced processing techniques all of which contribute to producing commercially viable, stronger sounding mixes.
Year Three 5 modules
- Research Project20 credits
Module details
This module promotes an independent, student-led approach to learning, where you'll design and execute a research project on a negotiated topic. You'll enhance your research and academic writing skills, under the guidance and support of your tutors, to produce a final submission that reflects your unique interests and strengthens your academic portfolio.
- Major Project40 credits
Module details
This module provides a platform for you to specialise, to showcase your best work focused on your chosen career path, and in turn your readiness for employment or further study. You will engage in tutorial discussions to support you as an individual, in developing content, consolidating skills and knowledge gained throughout the programme.
- Recording 340 credits
Module details
This module provides a comprehensive professional development experience in our most advanced studios, exploring contemporary production techniques to enhance your creative and technical abilities, building strong problem-solving skills, preparing you for a successful career in the audio industry.
- Mastering20 credits
Module details
Through this module you will explore the role of the Mastering Engineer, developing the skills to balance creative integrity with technical precision. In our dedicated mastering studio, the combination of modern digital tools, classic analogue hardware and bespoke monitoring enable you to create and submit, professional sounding, release ready music.
- Portfolio Management20 credits
Module details
Designed to support career growth, this module provides a platform to refine and present your professional portfolio, showcasing work as part of a strategic plan to maximise networking and attract future employment opportunities.
Source: provider course page. Modules can change; required/optional status, credits, descriptions and assessment are shown only when explicitly published.
Course in depth
What this course covers, who it suits and where it leads.
What you'll study
This course combines audio-specific practice with broader engineering foundations. You'll typically start with engineering mathematics, mechanics and materials, and design skills, both theoretical and hands-on in the workshop. In Year 2, you move into the core audio engineering disciplines alongside computing and simulation, often working in teams on practical design projects. Year 3 lets you specialise in areas such as acoustics, live sound systems, studio recording or audio software development, whilst studying professional practice and undertaking a substantial individual project. Throughout, you'll develop both technical problem-solving and practical studio or site-based experience.
Who it's for
You're suited to this degree if you have a genuine interest in how sound works and how to shape it creatively. You'll likely have some experience with music or audio software already, though formal qualifications in music aren't required. You should be comfortable with both the technical problem-solving side of engineering and the artistic decision-making involved in production. Expect hands-on studio work, collaborative projects and independent research. If you're curious about acoustics, keen to build a professional portfolio, and want to work in audio across music, broadcast, games or other industries, this course will appeal to you.
Careers & job market
Across Engineering courses nationally, 90% of graduates are in work or further study within 15 months of finishing their degree. Of those working, 80% are in highly skilled roles or undertaking further study. National Graduate Outcomes data shows that engineering graduates earn £29,000–£35,000 at the 15-month point; after five years, this rises to £33,150–£46,800. Earnings and labour-market figures are indicative of national trends, not a guarantee for this specific course.
University & format
This is a Bachelor's degree (BSc Hons) at Futureworks, a University located at Main Campus. The course runs for 3 years full-time and is taught in English. UCAS Code J9W3. Futureworks is a recognised UK degree-awarding body with a Silver award for teaching quality from the Office for Students' TEF 2023. Entry requirements typically reflect 104–120 UCAS points; most recent accepted students held A-levels or equivalent.
Student satisfaction
How students on this course answered the National Student Survey, by theme.
Share of students responding positively.
Published threshold met NSS publication requires sufficient responses; small differences are not a rank. NSS mean of 7 published themes (Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)
Applicant information
The next application dates for this course, followed by facts the provider publishes.
- 2027 entryCompleted applications can be submitted
Your application needs a reference before you can send it.
- 2026 entryFinal date for 2026 applications
Applications must reach UCAS by 18:00 UK time.
- 2026 entryLast day to add a Clearing choice
Check that this course still has a vacancy before adding it.
- 2027 entryEqual-consideration deadline
18:00 UK time for most undergraduate courses.
Show 5 later dates
- 2027 entryUCAS Extra opens
Applicants who used all five choices and hold no offer may be able to add another choice.
- 2027 entryLast day applications go directly to providers
Applications received after 18:00 UK time are entered into Clearing.
- 2027 entryClearing opens
Eligible applicants can see vacancies and release themselves into Clearing.
- 2027 entryFinal date for 2027 applications
Applications must reach UCAS by 18:00 UK time.
- 2027 entryLast day to add a Clearing choice
Check that this course still has a vacancy before adding it.
Provider-published requirement; check the linked course page before applying.
See and book current events. Dates can fill or change.
Entry & how to get in
Who gets in
What recently admitted students actually held, official admissions data, not a stated requirement.
UCAS tariff of entrants
Grades are the A-level equivalent of each points band. Tap a band to check your own chances below.
Qualifications held on entry
| Qualification | Share |
|---|---|
| A-levels or equivalent | 95% |
| No / unknown prior qualifications | 5% |
Entry & your chances
An honest read from the official entry data, plus your personal match.
Entry is set by the university and based on your offer. Use your predicted grades to see how you compare, then check the university's stated requirements.
Will you get in? Plot your grades
Pick your predicted A-levels and watch your UCAS points land on the real spread of students admitted to this course.
Each bar is the share of admitted students in that UCAS-points band (lower → higher). Grades show the A-level equivalent.
Based on the official admitted-student tariff distribution. Many universities make contextual (reduced-grade) offers, so a result below the range doesn’t rule you out.
How to apply
Undergraduate applications go through UCAS. Here’s what matters for this course, the right deadline, the grades to aim for, and the steps in order.
- 1Register on UCAS Hub
Create your UCAS application and add this course (code J9W3). One application covers up to five choices.
- 2Write your personal statement
A single statement covers all your choices, so keep it broad enough for similar courses while showing genuine interest in this subject.
- 3Submit by 13 January 2027, 18:00 UK time
UCAS equal-consideration deadline for most undergraduate courses. Source: UCAS 2027 dates.
- 4Reply to your offers
When decisions are in, pick a firm (first) choice and an insurance (back-up) choice with slightly lower grades.
- 5Results day & confirmation
On results day (mid-August) your place is confirmed if you meet the offer. Just missed? Talk to the university, or find a place through Clearing.
Fees & funding
What this course costs and how UK student finance covers it.
Tuition per year
Standard capped home fee at English providers (2026/27); Scotland, Wales & NI differ.
Check fees at Futureworks →For students who normally live in England
2026/27 Student Finance England figures. Maintenance support is means-tested and this two-point view is not an entitlement calculator. The course total uses its published length and home fee where both are available; a missing full-time fee uses the clearly labelled England-cap scenario, while part-time fees and unknown lengths are never guessed. Use the official calculator. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland use separate systems: SAAS, Student Finance Wales, and Student Finance NI.
Starting on or after 1 January 2027?
The Lifelong Learning Entitlement is a separate system. A new learner’s tuition entitlement is currently stated as £39,160 (about 480 credits at 2026/27 fee levels), subject to prior study and eligibility. Check the official LLE guide.
Paying for it
- Tuition Fee Loan: can cover eligible tuition up to the applicable limit and is paid straight to the provider.
- Maintenance Loan: up to £10,830/yr away from home outside London (England, 2026/27), means-tested on household income.
- Repayment: 9% of income above £25,000, nothing below it; written off after 40 years.
- Earn alongside: most students work part-time in term, part-time roles on the StudySmarter job board.
England figures shown; Scotland, Wales & NI run their own schemes, check gov.uk.
Scholarships & bursaries you could qualify for
That does not mean no funding exists. Check the university directory for current amounts, eligibility and application dates.
We only display a named award when its provider source identifies the award and who it is for.
Still deciding what to study?
StudyKit brings course choice, applications and funding together in one place, with a personal AI assistant. Find what really fits you and start your UCAS application step by step.
Careers & earnings
What Engineering graduates actually earn, from real outcome data, 15 months, 3 years and 5 years after graduating.
Graduate outcomes, 15 months on: this course
- 1Graduate roleFirst role after the degree · 0–2 yrs
- 2Specialist / PractitionerWorking in engineering · 2–5 yrs
- 3Senior / LeadLeading work and people · 5–10 yrs
- 4Head of / ExpertSenior leadership or deep expertise · 10+ yrs
How pay grows: this course vs Engineering nationally
National figures for Engineering graduates, HESA Graduate Outcomes (15 months) and the Longitudinal Education Outcomes (LEO) dataset (3 & 5 years). These are national, not university-specific; actual pay varies by employer, region, role and experience. Different cohorts, so the bars are not one group over time.
Work out your pay
Headline figures hide a lot. Calculate realistic take-home pay for this field by role, region and experience, then check your CV before you apply.
What happened to 100 students?
Choose an outcome to translate the published percentage into a simple 100-person view. Each dot represents one percentage point, not an individual tracked student.
were in work or further study
15 months after graduation
Source: Discover Uni, using Graduate Outcomes and continuation data. Cohorts: 2022-23. Published threshold met. Sample size is not included in this snapshot. Cohort 2022-23. Each tab is a separate published measure; categories can overlap and should not be added together.
UK occupations graduates enter
Published graduate destinations, joined conservatively to UK SOC 2020, ONS pay and Skills England demand.
- Artistic, literary and media occupationsSOC 2020 341 · 50% of published destinations · ASHE median £33,824
- Elementary occupationsSOC 2020 9 · 15% of published destinations · ASHE median £19,087
- Skilled trades occupationsSOC 2020 5 · 10% of published destinations · ASHE median £34,241
- Caring personal servicesSOC 2020 613 · 10% of published destinations · ASHE median £23,668
- Sales occupationsSOC 2020 71 · 10% of published destinations · ASHE median £15,975
Discover Uni JOBLIST/JOBTYPE; ONS ASHE 2025 provisional, all employee jobs; Skills England Occupations in Demand 2025. SOC is shown only for an exact normalised label match; demand is shown only at exact four-digit SOC. Published sample: 25; response rate: 50%. Pay describes the occupation across workers, not a guaranteed graduate salary.
Job market & outlook
How Engineering graduates fare in the labour market, and how AI is reshaping the work.
How AI is changing the work
AI doesn't replace the profession, it shifts it: routine tasks get automated, while judgement, working with people and using AI well become more valuable.
What AI takes off your plate
- Routine information gathering
- First-draft writing and summaries
- Standard analysis and admin
- Repetitive processing tasks
More human than ever
- Judgement and original thinking
- Working with and leading people
- Owning and sense-checking AI output
- Ethics and accountability
The strongest graduates pair subject depth with the ability to use AI tools critically.
Roles & employers
Where Engineering graduates typically go, indicative destinations from graduate career data. Each role links to live openings on the StudySmarter job board.
Roles graduates go into
Where they work
- Engineering & manufacturing firms
- Automotive & aerospace
- Energy & utilities
- Defence & consultancies
Jobs after this course
Current roles from the StudySmarter job board that suit Engineering graduates.
Engineering Surveyor (Machine Control)BAM UK & IrelandEngineering Operations Project ManagerFdo Consulting LimitedEngineering ManagerVerto PeopleEngineering ManagerRobert WaltersEngineering ManagerPremier Technical RecruitmentEngineering ManagerRedline Group LtdIs this course right for you?
The essentials UK applicants ask about: finance, outcomes, entry and quality.
Student finance
For comparison, the standard full-time England tuition cap is up to £9,790 per year in 2026/27; the actual fee varies by course and provider. If you normally live in England, eligible students can apply for a Tuition Fee Loan, plus a Maintenance Loan for living costs. Under Plan 5 you repay 9% of income above £25,000, nothing below that, and the balance is written off after 40 years.
Where graduates go
95% were in work or further study 15 months after graduating. See the full breakdown in Careers & earnings above.
Your entry chances
Use the UCAS points calculator above to see how your predicted grades compare with admitted students, and whether a contextual offer could apply.
Official-data snapshot
Averaging the official measures published for it, this course scores 8.8 out of 10: NSS 90.3% · in work or study 95% · continued 80%.
Who studies here and in this subject?
Provider- and UK subject-level context.
Futureworks
Engineering and technology across the UK
HESA student record 2024/25. Counts are rounded.
Local crime-data context
A neutral snapshot around the published teaching location.
Around Main Campus
14 street-level reports returned within roughly one mile across 2026-04 to 2026-06.
Police.uk street-level API. Approximate locations, not confined to campus. England, Wales and Northern Ireland; not Scotland.
Is Engineering right for you?
Tick what applies to you and see how good a fit it is.
International students
What applying to Futureworks from outside the UK involves: fees, English, visa, funding and living costs.
Tuition fees
International tuition is set per course by Futureworks; international fees are typically £12,000–£30,000/year for classroom subjects and higher for lab/clinical ones. You’re not eligible for UK Tuition Fee or Maintenance Loans, so plan for fees plus living costs upfront.
English language
Most UK undergraduate courses ask for around IELTS 6.0–6.5 (no band below 5.5–6.0), or an accepted equivalent. If you’re just short, most universities run a pre-sessional English course that counts towards the requirement.
Student visa
You’ll usually need a Student visa (Student Route). After you accept an offer the university issues a CAS; you then show funds for fees plus about £1,023–£1,334/month living costs and pay the Immigration Health Surcharge for NHS access.
Scholarships & funding
Many universities offer international/global scholarships (often £2,000–£6,000/yr), check Futureworks’s funding pages.
Living costs
Budget roughly £1,100–£1,400/month outside London and £1,400–£1,800/month in London for rent, food and travel; the figure also matters for your visa.
Working while you study
A Student visa usually allows up to 20 hours/week in term time and full-time in holidays, useful alongside study, though not something to rely on for fees.
Visa rules and fees change. Always confirm the current requirements with Futureworks and gov.uk before you apply.
Related courses
More at Futureworks
Common questions
How competitive is entry?
What are the entry requirements?
What do graduates go on to do?
What will it cost me?
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