Master of Design Science (Audio and Acoustics) (CRICOS course code 060911G) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by The University of Sydney over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This program equips graduates with advanced knowledge in audio engineering, acoustics, and design, preparing them for specialized roles in the audio industry. The course is classified under the field of Architecture and Building (0401 – Architecture and Urban Environment) and is taught entirely in English at the University's Camperdown campus in Sydney, NSW. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 00026A), it meets Australian Government standards for international student education, ensuring quality and student protections under the ESOS Act. Whether you aim to work in acoustic consulting, sound design, or audio technology, this degree offers a pathway to expertise. The University of Sydney is a Group of Eight research-intensive university, consistently ranked among the world's top institutions. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses across Australia, this program stands out as a specialized offering in a vibrant city that hosts hundreds of providers and a large international student community. Use this guide to understand all key aspects of the course, from fees and entry requirements to visa processes, before making your application.
| Metric | Value |
|---|
Master of Design Science (Audio and Acoustics) (CRICOS course code 060911G) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by The University of Sydney over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). It falls under the field of education 0401 – Architecture and Urban Environment, specifically 040199 – Architecture and Urban Environment, n.e.c. This is a single qualification (not a dual award) with no foundation studies component and no mandatory work placement. The language of instruction is English. As a CRICOS-registered course from a government provider (CRICOS 00026A), international students can be assured of quality and compliance with the ESOS Act. The University of Sydney is Australia's oldest university and a member of the prestigious Group of Eight, known for its research excellence and strong industry connections. This course is designed for graduates seeking to deepen their understanding of design science with a focus on audio and acoustics, covering topics such as architectural acoustics, sound system design, and audio signal processing. Students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities, including anechoic chambers and recording studios, and are taught by leading academics and industry practitioners. The program aims to produce graduates who can apply scientific principles to solve complex acoustic problems in built environments.
This Masters (Coursework) program focuses on the intersection of design, engineering, and human perception in the context of sound. Students explore theoretical foundations and practical applications in architectural acoustics, noise control, audio system design, and psychoacoustics. The curriculum typically includes core subjects such as acoustic measurement techniques, sound propagation modelling, and design of acoustic environments. Electives may cover areas like audio signal processing, virtual acoustics, and sustainable acoustic design. Graduates develop skills to assess and mitigate noise impacts, design concert halls and recording studios, and create immersive audio experiences. The field of Architecture and Urban Environment (0401) emphasises an interdisciplinary approach, combining elements of physics, engineering, architecture, and psychology. At this AQF Level 9, students are expected to engage with advanced concepts, undertake research projects, and produce a capstone work that demonstrates their expertise. The University of Sydney's program is designed to meet industry standards set by professional bodies such as the Australian Acoustical Society, preparing graduates for roles as acoustic consultants, audio engineers, or research scientists.
The course runs for 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks) according to the CRICOS register. This is a full-time study load, typically requiring 48 credit points of study. The program is delivered on-campus at the Camperdown campus, with face-to-face teaching and access to specialist laboratories. English is the sole language of instruction. The course is a single qualification, not a dual award or nested program. Students are expected to maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions. The duration includes a scheduled break period over summer, which may allow students to work unlimited hours under the student visa work conditions (subject to visa rules). The University of Sydney operates on a semester system, with intakes usually in February and July. Prospective students should check the university's website for exact start dates and study plan options.
The indicative tuition fee for Master of Design Science (Audio and Acoustics) is A$74,080 for the entire program. In addition, non-tuition fees (such as student amenities and services fee) amount to A$553, making an estimated total of A$74,633. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change by The University of Sydney. Please visit the provider's website for the most current fee schedule. Note that the following are NOT included in this estimate: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the student visa application charge. For a single student, OSHC costs approximately A$500–A$600 per year. Living costs in Sydney are indicative: weekly rent A$600–$800 for a one-bedroom apartment, groceries A$80–$150, and public transport A$40–$55. These figures are guides only; actual costs vary. Always confirm total financial capacity required for your student visa application with the Department of Home Affairs.
English language proficiency: An IELTS overall score of 6.5 to 7.0 is typically expected, with no band below 6.0. Alternatively, equivalent scores in TOEFL, PTE Academic, or Cambridge English may be accepted. The University of Sydney sets specific English requirements—check the course page for exact scores. For academic entry, applicants usually need a bachelor's degree in a related field such as engineering, architecture, physics, or audio technology. A minimum GPA or equivalent qualification may be required. No foundation studies are offered within this course; however, pathway programs (e.g., Graduate Certificate or Graduate Diploma) may be available for applicants who do not meet direct entry. Contact the university for individual assessment. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission, as places are competitive. International students must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion for their visa application.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. There is no internship, work placement, or professional experience requirement embedded in the program. However, students are encouraged to seek extracurricular opportunities such as industry projects, research assistant positions, or part-time jobs during their studies. Under the Student visa (Subclass 500), international students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This allows students to gain practical experience in the audio/acoustics field while studying. The University of Sydney's Careers Centre offers resources and job postings to help students connect with employers.
The course is delivered at The University of Sydney's main campus in Camperdown, NSW. Camperdown is a suburb near Sydney's city centre, within the City of Sydney local government area. Sydney is the capital of New South Wales and Australia's most populous city, with a vibrant international student community of over 150,000. The city hosts more than 300 CRICOS-registered providers offering diverse study opportunities. The Camperdown campus is well-served by public transport, including buses and the Inner West Light Rail, with proximity to Redfern and Central stations. Living in Sydney offers students access to world-class cultural institutions, beaches, and a diverse food scene. However, the cost of living is relatively high—students should budget accordingly. The university provides on-campus accommodation options and can assist with finding off-campus housing.
International students enrolled in this course must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: a valid Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from The University of Sydney; evidence of English proficiency; sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC; and meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement. OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) is mandatory and must be held for the duration of the visa. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Dependents may accompany the primary visa holder but are subject to work restrictions. All conditions are subject to change; always refer to the Department of Home Affairs website or consult a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice. The ESOS Act protects international students by ensuring tuition assurance and complaint handling mechanisms.
Sydney offers a dynamic environment for students of design science, with a thriving audio industry and strong demand for acoustics professionals. The city is home to major recording studios, architectural firms, and research institutions. However, the high cost of living can be a challenge. Compare Sydney to other Australian cities: Melbourne, Brisbane, or Perth may offer lower rents and a different lifestyle. For this specialised field, consider the presence of industry connections and job opportunities. The University of Sydney's location in Camperdown provides easy access to the Sydney CBD and the inner west's creative precincts. Students should also factor in climate, public transport, and cultural amenities. HeadStart Academy helps you compare courses and locations across Australia—use our site to explore all options.
Follow these three steps to apply for Master of Design Science (Audio and Acoustics) at The University of Sydney: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Filter by course level (Masters Degree Coursework), field (Architecture and Building), and city (Sydney) to confirm this course meets your goals. Check the CRICOS register for up-to-date registration status. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Prepare your academic transcripts, English test results (e.g., IELTS), and any other required documents. Submit your application via The University of Sydney's online portal before the deadline. Typical intakes are February and July; check specific deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, the university will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application. Ensure you meet financial requirements and arrange OSHC. For visa assistance, consult a registered migration agent.
Start your journey: explore Master of Design Science (Audio and Acoustics) on the CRICOS register and apply to The University of Sydney today.
All Masters Degree (Coursework) courses in New South Wales →
Master of Design Science (Audio and Acoustics) is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of Sydney. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.