Music Technology Systems

Music technology systems is a discipline that sits at the intersection of music and engineering, concerned with how technology is used to create, record, process, and distribute sound. It draws on acoustic physics, electronic engineering, computer science, and musical knowledge to develop practitioners who understand not just how to use existing audio technology but how to design and build the next generation of it. From synthesiser architecture and digital signal processing to spatial audio and recording studio design, the field is both technically demanding and creatively rich.

At the University of York, this three-year full-time programme gives you access to state-of-the-art facilities including multi-speaker surround sound systems, multimedia studios, and an anechoic chamber. You will explore synthesiser technology, MIDI, audio recording, sampling, and digital audio signal processing, learning both how these technologies work and how they are applied in music production and creative contexts. The engineering emphasis means you will develop the capacity to design and build new audio systems, not just to operate existing ones.

A sandwich placement year and work placement opportunities are built into the programme, giving you professional experience in the audio technology or music industries before you graduate. The typical entry tariff of 120 points reflects the accessible character of the programme.

You will develop a combination of technical rigour and creative understanding that is genuinely valuable in a sector where both are required.

Graduates pursue careers in audio engineering, music production, acoustic design, broadcast technology, sound design for film and games, musical instrument design, and research and development in audio technology companies. Postgraduate study in music technology, acoustics, or audio engineering is a well-established route for those seeking specialist or research-focused roles.