MSc in Acoustics and Music Technology Homepage

Introduction to the AMT MSc programme

The MSc in Acoustics and Music Technology (AMT) is a challenging and exciting taught Masters degree, hosted by the Acoustics and Audio Group, that provides a broad-based foundation in the technical, musical and multimedia applications of acoustics and modern music technology.

The AMT MSc programme is part of the internationally renowned, vibrant, and historic University of Edinburgh, founded in 1583 and consistently ranked within the top 20 best universities in the world.

Students from all over the world join our programme, and go on to work for companies that include Native InstrumentsArup AcousticsLG Electronics and many more besides.

Many of our graduates also gain fully funded PhD places at institutions all over the globe.

What do our graduating students say? See the extensive graduate profiles page, here. 

To stay in touch with the latest updates about goings on in the AMT MSc, and in the Acoustics and Audio Group, see our Twitter feed, Facebook page, and News page.


The core of the programme, comprising 50% of the taught component, combines technical study in the science of acoustics, vibration, computer modelling and signal processing. The flexible design of the MSc then allows you to tailor the remaining 50% of your course choices so as to fit in with your academic interests and career objectives. You may choose to concentrate further on technical and scientific subjects related to acoustics and audio, or to dive into the stimulating world of creative music technology. It is also possible to combine option courses so as to explore both areas.

The overall focus of the MSc programme is the science of sound. There are applications in acoustics, music, sound synthesis, digital signal processing with an emphasis on audio, design and creative use of music technology, speech processing and synthesis, and advanced signal processing.

A key attraction of the degree is that it is run by members of the Acoustics and Audio Group, which includes academics and researchers from across the Schools of Music, Physics and Engineering. This is an internationally recognised centre for research and teaching excellence in acoustics, sound synthesis and audio technology.

It is also home to the NESS Project, a long-term EU-funded project developing the next generation of musical sound synthesis models. As a student on the AMT MSc programme, you will have the opportunity to study and develop within the context of this active research environment.

Our graduates seem to appreciate this stimulating academic environment. Have a look at the growing page of alumni feedback.


Apply for a place on the MSc

The Online Application form for the programme can be found here.


Further programme information

The following pages provide further information about the MSc in Acoustics and Music Technology:

Even more information can also be found via the following resources:

  • The current AMT MSc programme handbook (PDF file) can be found here. This is a lengthy document that includes loads of details about the programme content and course options, most of which is already right here on the website.

Programme enquiries

roomIf you have any questions about the AMT MSc programme, please contact Dr. Michael Newton who is the programme director. Alternatively, use the online contact form directly from this website.

For assistance in the application procedure, please contact Lyndsay Hopes, who is the postgraduate secretary for this programme, or Claire McCullough in the admissions team for the College.


Educational videos for the AMT MSc programme

The Acoustics and Audio Group has a YouTube channel, on which we post MusICA seminars and other content related to our group’s research. The playlist below presents a short selection of acoustics education videos, put together by Prof Clive Greated. These give a brief preview of just some of the acoustical subjects covered on the programme.


Postgraduate Open Days and Reasons to Study at Edinburgh

McEwan HallThe University of Edinburgh has a number of postgraduate open days throughout the year. These are a great chance to come along and find out more about the degree. It’s also a great opportunity to scope out the City of Edinburgh, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

You can find out about open days on this page.

There is a lot of other useful information about studying in Edinburgh over on the main University website. This includes an exciting list of reasons to come to Edinburgh for your postgrad Master’s degree.