Soundtracks & Sound Design (Sound Production)

Level 5

Certification

QQI Sound Production Level 5, Code 5M2149

Overview

This course is designed to introduce students to the theory and practice of soundtracks and sound design for various media platforms, such as film, television, radio, podcast, animation, and video games. The course covers the fundamentals of sound production, recording, editing, mixing, and mastering, as well as the creative and technical aspects of sound design, such as sound effects, music, dialogue, ambience, and Foley. 

Additionally, the course covers music composition and performance, where students will learn the basic elements of music theory, such as melody, harmony, rhythm, and form, and how to apply them to create original and expressive musical scores for different media contexts and genres. The course will also introduce students to some of the tools and techniques for composing, arranging, and orchestrating music, such as  digital audio workstations, MIDI, and sampling. 

We will also explores the history, aesthetics, and genres of soundtracks and sound design, and the role of sound in storytelling, mood, and emotion. The course aims to equip students with the skills and knowledge to create original and effective soundtracks and sound designs for their own media projects, using industry-standard software and equipment. The course also provides students with the opportunity to collaborate with other media students and professionals, and to showcase their work in various platforms and events.

Entry Requirements

• In general, applicants should hold a Leaving Certificate, LCA or

QQI Level 4 qualification. For mature applicants, appropriate

experience will be considered in lieu of formal qualifications.

• All applicants will be required to attend an interview

• An offer of a place on this course means the applicant has met the

minimum entry requirements set out and attended for interview

Duration

One year full time.

Work Placement/Experience

Participants will be required to undertake 10 days of work placement in a relevant location. The College will assist participants in identifying suitable placements.

Education Progression Opportunities

Progression to L6 of the Advanced Film Course in Douglas Street Campus which has a further comprehensive sound component as well as film production elements. You will also be eligible to apply for The BA (Arts-Music) at UCC, the modern music course at BIMM, Dublin and TCD offers music degrees within its art faculty.

UCC: CK104 Arts with Music

MTU Cork: MT937 Popular Music

BIMM: TU961 Commercial Modern Music

Dundalk IT: DK865/DK768 Audio and Music Production

TUS: LC372/LC270 -Music Technology & Production (Limerick), AL718 –Music and Sound Engineering*, AL605 Music & Instrument Technology* (Athlone)(*maths requirement-LC or QQI)

IADT: DL 838 – Creative Music Production

We advise you to consult the CAO website – www.cao.ie and http://www.cao.ie/index.php?page=fetac_ to confirm specific entry requirements for Higher Education Institutions.

Career Opportunities

After completing the course you will be in a strong position to start marketing your compositions and compositional skills to; production music libraries (world wide), independent media production houses (world wide) and state broadcasters such as RTÉ and the BBC.