Acoustics PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships

A PhD in Acoustics will give you the chance to lead your own research project that will further our current understanding of audio and acoustics engineering. Whether you’re interested in developing auralisation tools for drone noise, reducing sound in a built environment or using acoustic sensors to record marine animal vocalisations, your research will be improving quality of life across the world.

What's it like to study a PhD in Acoustics?

Doing a PhD in Acoustics, you will become proficient in the skills necessary to contribute to a research portfolio which spans automotive, aerospace, marine, energy, architectural and building sectors.

Some typical research topics in Acoustics include: 

• acoustic measurements
• audio engineering
• computer modelling
• psychoacoustics
• vibro-acoustics

Typical Acoustics PhD research projects take between three and four years to complete. As well as undertaking research training within your department, you will also attend external meetings and conferences and may be submitting research posters as your research develops.

To be awarded your PhD, you must submit a thesis of about 60,000 words and defend it during your viva exam. 

PhD in Acoustics entry requirements  

The entry requirements for a typical PhD in Acoustics usually involves a first degree in a related subject such as Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or Acoustical Engineering. You may be able to apply if you have a background in audio production or music technology but you’ll need to chat with admissions around your experience with scientific methodology to make sure you have the necessary foundation for studying a PhD.

You will also need to submit a compelling research proposal detailing your study plans.

PhD in Acoustics funding options

In the UK, PhDs in Acoustics are funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) who provide a tuition fee waiver and a living cost stipend. Depending on the programme, you may submit your own research proposal before being considered for funding or apply for a project that already has funding attached. 

It is also possible to apply for a PhD loan to help with the costs of a doctorate in Acoustics (although this cannot be combined with Research Council funding). Other options for financial support include university scholarships, graduate teaching assistantships and charities.   

PhD in Acoustics careers

You may choose to continue your research in your chosen area at a university, or work with the commercial sector in an engineering role, sharing your knowledge and expertise.