The course includes the fundamentals of sound systems, sound engineering, sound for radio and television (TV), special effects, computer games design, electronic music, the science of sound and the recording chain, synthesis and midi, and studio techniques; studios are equipped with analogue and digital systems, software and information technology (IT) facilities; a work placement period in the 2nd year provides a useful link into the industry; the course begins with the fundamentals of sound systems, studio principles and associated professional software taught in a highly hands-on manner; this continues into the 2nd year but with a more in-depth approach to sound engineering concepts; options are available too in radio broadcasting techniques, foley synthesis and advanced studio techniques so that students can gain a wider experience of the applications of sound engineering; students are eligible to progress onto the final year of the degree course after successful completion of the foundation course; in addition to acquiring the specific skills for sound engineering, students also develop those vocational skills necessary to pursue a career in the audio and related industries; recognised, key transferable skills are also embedded in the course; these include written and presentational skills, analytical reasoning, inter-personal skills and self-management; students also develop an ability to analyse, evaluate and resolve problems;