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Acoustician
Acousticians study the physics of sound, using their knowledge to develop the management of sound in areas such as science, industry, medicine and the environment. They work on improving sound, controlling noise levels and developing technology such as telecommunications systems, sound and medical ultrasound equipment.
Also known as:
- Acoustic engineer
- Acoustics physicist
- Sound physicist
Work activities
Some acousticians help to measure and control noise levels in the workplace, working to strict regulations and legislation. They predict and measure noise levels, for example, in heavy industry and construction work. They identify areas where noise levels must be reduced, and then recommend control techniques. Acousticians use equipment such as sound-level meters to take decibel measurements from the source of noise. They are then able to build computer models to analyse the strength of noise from the source, and the distance between the source and the receiver of the noise. Apart from heavy industrial machinery, things like heating, air conditioning and the external environment all contribute to noise levels in commercial buildings. Acousticians work with companies to investigate the cause of noise and recommend solutions, such as soundproof insulation, or to identify and remove noise sources. They advise companies and individuals on legal issues, such as compensation for hearing loss caused by high workplace noise levels.
Acousticians are often involved in building design. They advise planners and builders on measures at an early stage to make new buildings as soundproof as possible, taking into account the health and privacy of people in neighbouring buildings. They work with architects to improve sound quality in the entertainment industry, in places like theatres, stadiums and recording studios. In environmental noise control, acousticians predict and measure traffic, rail and aircraft noise, using their findings to advise local authorities, rail companies and airports, for example. They also predict noise levels from events such as music concerts, helping local authorities to consider whether the noise level will be a nuisance or damaging to local people. Acousticians can also be experts on the human auditory system, including deafness, tinnitus and hearing loss caused by noise. They use their knowledge to research and develop ear defenders, and to help medical professionals in diagnosis and treatment. Acousticians have also helped to develop medical ultrasound testing. Some acousticians research and develop the sophisticated equipment used to record and measure sound, including microphones, amplifiers and sound-level meters. Others help to develop the latest telecommunications, speech synthesis and speech recognition systems. Some acousticians work on noise and vibration reduction for luxury car manufacturers, both in terms of aerodynamics and engine noise, and in-car audio systems and telephones. There are many other areas of work. Just some are underwater acoustics, sonar systems and materials technology.
Personal qualities and skills
To be an acoustician, you’ll need:
- A strong interest in, and curiosity about, the physics of sound.
- To be accurate and methodical.
- Analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Strong maths skills.
- The ability to use a wide variety of technical equipment.
- Good communication skills to explain your findings.
- Writing skills to produce reports and make recommendations.
- Good teamwork skills.
Pay and opportunities
Salaries for acousticians vary. Most people in this career earn between £22,000 and £35,000 per year.
Most acousticians work around 39-41 hours, Monday to Friday. However, they might have early starts, late finishes and some weekend work, especially as deadlines approach.
Employers throughout the UK are firms in manufacturing, energy, communications, construction, computing, transportation, chemical, water, marine and offshore industries. There are also opportunities in government departments.
Acousticians can work as independent consultants or in partnership with other specialists in professional practice.
Where are vacancies advertised?
Vacancies are advertised on the website of the Institute of Acoustics (IOA), in science magazines such as New Scientist (including the online version), on specialist job boards, and in national newspapers.
Entry routes and training
You need a relevant degree to become an acoustician. Most entrants have degrees in applied physics with significant acoustics content, or a relevant engineering degree. You should check prospectuses carefully to make sure the course is appropriate. Some people enter after completing degrees in music technology. A small number of specialist courses are available – examples include degrees in acoustics and audio engineering, and postgraduate audio acoustics. A few colleges and universities offer courses and degrees featuring acoustics, audio production, environmental acoustics, noise control, and sound technology including at postgraduate level.
Acousticians can set up their own businesses as consultants, for example, giving advice to local authorities, construction companies and industry.
Qualifications
For entry to a degree in physics with acoustics; acoustics; or acoustical engineering, the usual minimum requirement is:
- Two to three A-levels, including maths and physics.
- GCSEs at grades 9-4 in your A-level subjects.
- A further two to three GCSEs at grades 9-4.
Alternatives to A levels include:
- Edexcel (BTEC) level 3 National qualifications
- International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma.
Adult opportunities
Age limits: It is illegal for any organisation to set age limits for entry to employment, education or training, unless they can show there is a real need to have these limits.
Some entrants have gained skills and knowledge in sound engineering or acoustics technical work.
If you don’t have the qualifications needed to enter a degree course, you might be able to start one after completing an Access course, for example, Access to Science. You don’t usually need any qualifications to enter an Access course, although you should check this with the course provider. A foundation year before the start of a science degree or HND is available at some universities and higher education colleges for students who don’t have the science A levels usually needed for entry to the course. A few colleges and universities offer courses in Acoustics / Acoustic Engineering at postgraduate level including with part time/flexible and distance learning study options.
Financial support for postgraduate study and research may be available, through universities, or from UKRI (UK Research and Innovation).
