MSc Music and Sound for Film and Games

University of Hertfordshire

This module explores the role of sound design and music in interactive games. It covers the principles, aesthetics and practice underlying the composition and production of music and sound elements in non-linear environments, and the associated techniques and technologies for the integration and automation of audio layers in interactive game audio utilising the latest industry standard tools and software.

This module is designed to enable students to pursue their own particular interest focusing on a specific area of their choice, which must be related to their award of studies, and must be approved by the relevant tutor. Drawing on all the knowledge and skills acquired on their course, students realise a piece of creative or technical work, substantial in size and advanced in level, that could be showcased / performed / presented to potential employers, commissioning bodies, audiences, etc. Depending on the chosen area, the tutor will advise students on the most appropriate way of delivering and presenting their project for assessment.

This module covers the principles, aesthetics and practice of soundtrack composition in the specific context of narrative film. The fundamental concepts of film and narrative theory are introduced, with a view of acquiring an ability to "read" films at both the formal and the narrative levels, and understanding how the soundtrack is functioning in support of narration, signification and characterization, at both diegetic and nondiegetic levels. The module then proceeds to consider the specifics of composition and production with reference to all aspects of the soundtrack – music, sound design, and foley – exploring devices and strategies for achieving an effective audiovisual integration.

This module explores the principles, aesthetics and practice of sound design in relation to visual media, in both narrative and non-narrative contexts, laying the foundations for an advanced understanding of the soundtrack and the role it plays in audiovisual structures. To support the practical application of the theoretical principles, the module further covers the studio techniques and technologies employed in current sound production practice, equipping students with the technical knowledge and skills necessary to operate effectively as music and sound designers in the audio-media industry.

This module covers the intellectual, professional and entrepreneurial skills necessary to operate successfully in academic and commercial environments. Research methods and skills are developed, and these are then deployed to foster a critical awareness of the discourses and debates that inform current practice and scholarship in music and sound as a broad disciplinary field. Business, legislation and professional practices in the music and sound industries are examined and discussed with a view of developing the student's ability to pursue effectively their career aspirations.