HNC Sound Production
Overview
Start here! Get hands on from day one.
Record a band, design the sound for a game, mix a live gig. Our HNC Sound Production course is your first step into the industry.
You'll work on practical projects across Studio Recording & Mixing, Sound Design for Films and Games, Sound for Live Events and Music Production, learning on the same hardware and software the professionals use.
The HNC is equivalent to the first year of a degree. Finish it and you can continue to our HND, then on to our BA and BA (Hons) Sound Production, accredited by the University of the West of Scotland.
Not quite ready for HNC level? Our NC Sound Production course is the perfect place to start.
Entry
You'll need one of the following:
- One Higher pass, or equivalent relevant NQ unit passes
- Successful completion of NQ Sound Production & Electronic Music
You'll also be invited to an interview, which is a chance for us to hear about your interest in sound and for you to ask us anything about the course.
No formal qualifications? Relevant work experience or prior learning can be considered instead. We may ask to see a portfolio of your work, which could include recordings, mixes or sound design you've created.
Learn
You'll build the practical and theoretical foundations the sound production industry expects, from using microphones and hardware in different recording situations to working confidently in industry-standard software including Pro Tools and Ableton Live.
In the studio
Running your own recording sessions with support from your lecturers, you'll develop the audio editing skills used in TV, film and game design, and learn to build song arrangements and productions of your own. You'll also explore synthetic sound design and sampling, skills in constant demand across music, film and games.
At live events
You'll work in our live performance spaces with analogue and digital mixing desks, PA systems and microphones, sharpening the critical listening skills every sound engineer relies on. Live sound is one of the quickest routes into paid work in the industry.
Working like a professional
Technical skill gets you in the door, but it's how you work that builds a career. You'll develop the habits the industry expects: communicating with clients, working in teams and delivering high-quality work to tight deadlines.
Collaborate across the college
You'll be encouraged to work with students from Music and Business on projects that mirror real industry work, building your portfolio and your contacts as you go.
Get industry certified
We're an approved Avid Learning Partner, so you can take optional industry-recognised qualifications such as Pro Tools 101 and 110 alongside your HNC. These certifications are recognised by studios worldwide and look excellent on a CV.
Where can I go from here?
Graduates of this course will be able to go directly into the following courses:
