MSc Sound Design

Postgraduate entry requirements:

1. Academic Qualifications: Prospective postgraduate applicants to the University of Edinburgh are typically required to have achieved a minimum academic qualification of approximately 60%, based on their previous academic achievements and qualifications.  

2. English Language Proficiency:  

   • IELTS (International English Language Testing System): Minimum overall score of 6.5, with at least 6.0 in each component (Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing).

   • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): Minimum score of 100 on the internet-based test (iBT), with at least 20 in each component (Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing).

   • PTE (Pearson Test of English): Minimum overall score of 70, with at least 59 in each component (Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing).

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

Work experience: Some postgraduate courses may require relevant work experience in the field.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

The University of Edinburgh offers a range of scholarships and funding opportunities specifically designed to support international students pursuing undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs. These scholarships aim to promote diversity, academic excellence, and global engagement. 

Global Scholarships: The University of Edinburgh offers Global Scholarships to outstanding international undergraduate students. These scholarships provide financial assistance towards tuition fees and living expenses, enabling talented students from around the world to access quality education at Edinburgh.

Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships: International postgraduate students pursuing research-based programs (Ph.D., MSc by Research) can apply for Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships. These scholarships provide full or partial funding for tuition fees and living expenses during the research program.

School-specific Scholarships: Some academic schools and departments within the university offer scholarships targeting international students in specific disciplines or programs. These scholarships may be merit-based or need-based and vary in terms of eligibility criteria and funding amounts.

Commonwealth Scholarships: The University of Edinburgh participates in various Commonwealth scholarship schemes, providing opportunities for students from Commonwealth countries to study in the UK. These scholarships are funded by the UK government and other organizations.

External Funding Sources: International students are encouraged to explore external funding sources, such as government scholarships, private organizations, and international foundations, to support their studies at the University of Edinburgh.

It is important to note that scholarship availability, criteria, and application deadlines may change from year to year.

Graduates of the MSc Sound Design program from The University of Edinburgh are well-equipped to pursue diverse career opportunities in the rapidly evolving field of audio production and multimedia industries.  

1. Audio Production Companies: Many graduates find employment with audio production companies, where they work as sound designers, audio engineers, or Foley artists. They contribute their expertise to various projects, including film, television, advertising, and interactive media, creating immersive soundscapes and audio experiences that enhance storytelling and engage audiences.

2. Film and Television Industry: Sound designers play a crucial role in the film and television industry, shaping the auditory landscape of visual media. Graduates may work on feature films, documentaries, TV series, or commercials, collaborating with directors, editors, and other creative professionals to achieve the desired sound effects, dialogue clarity, and overall sonic atmosphere.

3. Video Game Development: With the growing popularity of video games, there is a high demand for skilled sound designers in the gaming industry. Graduates may join game development studios as audio directors, sound effects designers, or music composers, contributing to the immersive audio experience of video games and virtual reality simulations.

4. Interactive Media and Virtual Reality: The rise of interactive media platforms, augmented reality (AR), and virtual reality (VR) technologies has created new opportunities for sound designers. Graduates may work on projects that involve interactive sound design, spatial audio, and ambisonics, creating immersive audio environments for VR experiences, interactive installations, and multimedia exhibits.

5. Music Production and Recording Studios: Some graduates pursue careers in music production and recording studios, where they work as recording engineers, mixing engineers, or mastering engineers. They collaborate with musicians, bands, and composers to capture and enhance musical performances, ensuring high-quality audio production for albums, singles, and live performances.

6. Freelance and Self-Employment: Many sound designers choose to work as freelancers or start their own audio production businesses. They may offer services such as sound design, audio post-production, voiceover recording, or podcast production to clients in various industries, providing customized audio solutions for their projects.

7. Academic and Research Positions: Graduates with a passion for teaching and research may pursue academic careers or research positions in universities, colleges, or research institutions. They can contribute to the advancement of sound studies, audio technology, and sonic arts through teaching, academic research, and creative practice.