OverviewAbout this course
Take your career in recording engineering and music production up an octave and pursue your creative dream. Strengthen your technical ability to create albums, collaborate with fellow artists and explore the world of audio post-production.
OutcomesWhat you'll gain
Learning outcomes
Through a mixture of theory and practical course work, learn to:
Record, edit and mix audio
Engineer and produce studio recording
Create and arrange music using music software
Manage freelance clients and business
Work within copyright arrangements
Course outcomes
Gain practical experience and develop specialist skills that give you an advantage in the job market.
A nationally recognised qualification at Diploma level
Experience in studio recording, live sound and computer-based production
Knowledge of copyright and other industry essentials
Skills to mix live sound and record music in a studio
Strong pathways to continue your studies and enhance your career opportunities
SuitabilityIs this course right for you?
Entry requirements
This course requires evidence of previous experience or study before you can enrol
Successful completion of the Certificate III in Music (Sound Production) or the Certificate IV in Music (Sound Production) or its equivalent as evidenced by a copy of your transcript, or
That you have the music skills and knowledge as evaluated by a teacher-assessed interview. We will contact you to discuss the requirements of the interview and arrange a suitable time.
Completion requirements
During your study you’ll need to provide your teacher with the following evidence:
Entry recommendations
To be prepared for this course, we recommend that you have:
Digital literacy including some experience of a digital audio workstation (DAW) and programs like Logic, ProTools or Ableton
A reasonable numeracy level including an understanding of frequencies and counting bars
A willingness to explore a range of music styles
The ability to collaborate with people in a team environment
Some knowledge of audio theory, including types of microphones, basic knowledge of frequencies and volume
Some knowledge of signal path, such as you might find in a basic home studio or in a simple PA system
A willingness to be available and attend functions and live performances outside of class hours, including evenings and weekends
Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) at a Year 12 high school level
TAFE NSW may ask you to complete a Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) skills test.
This skills test helps us to understand your individual study needs, to design an individualised plan that supports your study success and ensures your LLN skills match the demands of the course.
If you need help preparing for study, contact us about your options.
TAFE NSW is committed to meeting the learning needs of every community. Meeting these needs can mean there are additional entry requirements at different campus locations. Check your preferred location for further requirements. If you need help preparing for study, contact us to find out how we can support you.
PathwaysFuture career and study options
Career pathways
Our graduates go onto roles like: music producer, recording engineer, mix engineer, live sound mixer and film and TV sound engineer.
Study pathways
Take your study further with other courses offered at TAFE NSW:
Previous study3 Courses
Begin here to gain experience and confidence in this study area.
Further study2 Courses
Advance your skills to take your career to the next level
Related study3 Courses
Strengthen your expertise and gain specialist skills to expand your employability.
Your experience counts
At TAFE NSW, we recognise your previous study and work experience. You can apply for recognition of prior learning or a credit transfer with any of our courses. If you're successful you'll get your qualification faster.
UnitsUnits taught in this course
Courses are made up of a combination of both core and specialty units. In the Diploma of Music (Sound Production) qualification, you’ll need to successfully complete 16 units of competency, including 4 core and 12 speciality units.
Please note, not all specialty units are offered at every TAFE NSW location. It is highly recommended that you check with your preferred campus for information about the specialty units offered at that location.
Core units are central to the job outcomes of a particular industry or occupation. These are the units industry has agreed are essential to be capable and qualified at a particular study level.
Develop and implement own self-care plan in the creative industriesCUAMWB401
Provide freelance servicesCUAIND412
Enhance professional practice using creative arts industry knowledgeCUAIND512
Manage copyright arrangementsCUACMP511
TAFE NSW servicesFacilities and support
TAFE NSW provides support services across all campus locations and online. Whatever your needs or circumstances, we have the people, resources, counselling and facilities to support you in focusing on your studies.
TAFE NSW Disability Support Service
TAFE NSW Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) support
TAFE NSW Aboriginal Support; Learner support (ABE)
TAFE NSW Careers, Counselling and Pathways Service
TAFE NSW Libraries
Scholarship programs – be supported as you explore your talents and fulfil your potential
Read&Write literacy and study support software is available free for all TAFE NSW students to use while studying on campus and at home
LinkedIn Learning – an online resource which offers innovative courses and tutorials to improve your personal and professional skills
Student associations – get social with our student community