Duration
8 months (2 trimesters) accelerated
Locations
Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane
Fees
Intake Dates

February, June, September

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International

CRICOS 056932D

JMC welcomes students from all over the world.
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This practical diploma will give you a solid understanding of digital audio workstations and analogue consoles, and your choice of electives in Electronic Music Production or Live Event Production.

Kick-off your studies and learn all about software-based synths with an emphasis on editing, arranging and mixing. Master mixing consoles and signal processors, and record, overdub and mix a band in the studio.

Put your technical skills into practice by collaborating with other students recording a band using multi-microphone techniques, or overdubbing other instruments to a multi-track recorder, and gain a real headstart securing your dream audio job.

Why Study Audio at JMC?

Australia's leading Audio Engineering Course
Choose electives in Live Events, Studio Production, Sound for Screen and Electronic Music Production
Learn direct from major international producers at regular student masterclasses

Technology & Facilities

We take audio seriously at JMC, with studios full of the best tech in the trade including high-end equipment and recording studios, fitted with 5.1 surround sound and all the latest gear, including:

Consoles: SSL Duality 48 Channel, Avid C24 control surface, Pro Tools HD with Avid HDX conversion

Mics: Neumann U87, FET 47, U89, Royer 121, AKG C414 and many more

Plugins: Full Universal Audio Plugin Suite, Waves Mercury Bundle Outboard: Avalon 2022, Universal Audio 2x610, Empirical Labs Distressors, Manley Vari Mu

When undertaken full-time, the Diploma of Audio Engineering & Sound Production can be completed in 8 months (2 trimesters).

Flexible part-time options are available.

Course Structure

The Diploma of Audio Engineering & Sound Production makes up the first 2 trimesters of the Audio Bachelor's degree. At the successful completion of 2 trimesters, our modular course structure lets you graduate with an officially recognised diploma or continue seamlessly towards the industry standard Bachelor of Creative Technology (Audio Engineering & Sound Production) degree.

Click here to view the detailed course structure →

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Curriculum

Credit Points: 6
Trimester 1

This unit introduces students to the diverse range of careers available in the industry as well as some of the equipment and standard practices in various industry sectors. It introduces professional practice in various settings and identifies the skills required to function within them as well as developing networks for future engagement in industry.  

The student will also develop the academic skills of research and referencing, independent learning and effective written and oral presentations through specific content and assessment processes. This unit provides grounding for many of the concepts studied in later units.

Credit Points: 6
Trimester 2

This unit introduces the concepts and techniques of contemporary music production. Various technical, artistic and creative concerns are surveyed in context to various contemporary and popular musical styles and genres. Production and sonic characteristics are discussed and analysed, illuminating fundamental principles of music production and their qualities.

Credit Points: 6
Trimester 1

This unit will discuss the nature and behaviour of sound waves as well as how they are experienced and described. Students will explore how sound waves may exist acoustically or be represented as electrical or digital signals and also how they may be generated, captured, stored, reproduced and manipulated by various devices. Human perception of sound is investigated as well as how to protect hearing from damage. This unit will provide the theoretical grounding to the course and support the practical application of these concepts.

Credit Points: 6
Trimester 2

In this unit, students will learn the basics of mixing techniques to achieve release-quality music. Listening and mix evaluation skills will be explored with the technical concepts expected of a professional production. Editing, arrangement, and monitoring use, alongside psychological and psychoacoustic techniques will give students foundational mixing skills.

Credit Points: 6
Trimester 1

This unit provides fundamental concepts for digital audio workstation (DAW) operation that will be used throughout the degree. It involves a practical introduction to software-based recording systems with an emphasis on file handling, editing, and arranging using a DAW. You will learn about the fundamental hardware and software components required for digital audio production, as well as the function an audio engineer plays in preparing and completing a mix. This unit covers an introduction to signal processing in the context of plug-in based digital signal processing in the form of equalisation, dynamics processing and time modification effects.

Credit Points: 6
Trimester 2

This unit builds on the practice and concepts presented in Studio 1 (ASP204). Students will apply practical approaches to recording and mixing using a combination of digital and analogue recording techniques. Students will explore areas including further application of microphone techniques; overdubbing, appropriate instrumentation; and the application of mixing techniques for specific purposes.

Credit Points: 6
Trimester 1

In this unit, students will apply technical and theoretical recording, digital editing and mixing concepts to simple recording projects. This unit involves a practical approach to using microphones and digital recording equipment as well as exploring the demands of editing voice and working with artists in the recording studio. Students will apply the knowledge learnt in other units to practical situations and reflect upon their work and the work of the group. Both recordings will be mixed in a format suitable for professional distribution.

Trimester 2

Choose from:

  • Live Event Production - ASP309
  • Introduction To Electronic Music Production Techniques - ASP310

(Available in Trimesters 2 & 4)

This unit introduces the student to the principles of effective professional work practices by focusing on the knowledge required to safely and effectively set up and operate appropriate audio visual and PA equipment for sound reinforcement systems. 

Students set up and operate a basic public address or AV system to suit the requirements of both the venue and client. It has a significant practical component and introduces the student to an area of specialisation for their professional practice.

(Available in Trimesters 2 & 4)

This unit introduces the creative practice of electronic music techniques through software synthesizers, MIDI, arrangement and audio editing via DAW software. The application of various synthesizers and audio manipulation processes are explored including the integration of MIDI. The knowledge gained in this unit will be used extensively in subsequent studio recording projects. Students will familiarize themselves with hardware and software that is commonly used to create electronic music. Students are not required to have prior musical knowledge for this unit; the emphasis is on synthesis and creative audio manipulation.



Our Lecturers

Daniel Spirovski

Head of Audio Engineering & Sound Production (Brisbane)

While completing his performance degree in Jazz on Tenor Saxophone, Daniel developed his skill in music production and recording. For close to 20 years, he has been working as a professional musician performing locally and internationally in corporate and original bands. He is also a composer, music director, recording session musician, and multi-instrumentalist (saxophone, keyboards, and bass guitar).

Since 2008, he has worked as an independent music producer, live sound, and mix engineer and produced a large body of work across many genres. Daniel has traveled and performed on saxophone extensively with the Chicago-based Gospel group, Light of Love (backing vocalists for Paul Simon and Toto) in the US and in Australia. He was their Production Manager for a Live Recording in Stavanger, Norway.

Daniel has worked for Education QLD and Brisbane City Council music program initiatives and was the USQ Summerschool Music Program Co-ordinator for five years.

He started at JMC academy as a sessional music lecturer in 2013 and was promoted to Senior Lecturer in Music where he coordinated the Ensemble Program, Music Technology, and Production units as well as lecturing and mentoring in Songwriting. He has represented JMC internationally on trips to India, Nepal, and Indonesia.

In 2020 Daniel was promoted to the role of Head of Audio in Brisbane.

Daniel Spirovski

Head of Audio Engineering & Sound Production (Brisbane)

While completing his performance degree in Jazz on Tenor Saxophone, Daniel developed his skill in music production and recording. For close to 20 years, he has been working as a professional musician performing locally and internationally in corporate and original bands. He is also a composer, music director, recording session musician, and multi-instrumentalist (saxophone, keyboards, and bass guitar).

Since 2008, he has worked as an independent music producer, live sound, and mix engineer and produced a large body of work across many genres. Daniel has traveled and performed on saxophone extensively with the Chicago-based Gospel group, Light of Love (backing vocalists for Paul Simon and Toto) in the US and in Australia. He was their Production Manager for a Live Recording in Stavanger, Norway.

Daniel has worked for Education QLD and Brisbane City Council music program initiatives and was the USQ Summerschool Music Program Co-ordinator for five years.

He started at JMC academy as a sessional music lecturer in 2013 and was promoted to Senior Lecturer in Music where he coordinated the Ensemble Program, Music Technology, and Production units as well as lecturing and mentoring in Songwriting. He has represented JMC internationally on trips to India, Nepal, and Indonesia.

In 2020 Daniel was promoted to the role of Head of Audio in Brisbane.

Glenn Ferguson

Head of Audio Engineering & Sound Production (Sydney)

Glenn commenced lecturing at JMC Academy in 1996 and has held the position of Department Head since 2006. This experience, coupled with 20 years of industry experience and academic accomplishment has made Glenn a master specialist in his field. Having worked in a variety of recording situations, from world class SSL equipped studios, to temporary setups in farmhouses, schools and garages, Glenn has built a broad repertoire of skills.

Glenn has recorded a variety of acts from rock bands to jazz artists; Welsh choirs to brass bands. He also has extensive location recording experience including gigs at the Sydney Entertainment Centre, Sydney Town Hall, Newcastle Town Hall, Enmore Theatre and Cessnock Town Hall to name a few. Personally inspired by Rick Rubin, Glenn encourages his students to develop their own unique ‘sound’ to ensure they establish a competitive, sustainable career in the industry.

Glenn Ferguson

Head of Audio Engineering & Sound Production (Sydney)

Glenn commenced lecturing at JMC Academy in 1996 and has held the position of Department Head since 2006. This experience, coupled with 20 years of industry experience and academic accomplishment has made Glenn a master specialist in his field. Having worked in a variety of recording situations, from world class SSL equipped studios, to temporary setups in farmhouses, schools and garages, Glenn has built a broad repertoire of skills.

Glenn has recorded a variety of acts from rock bands to jazz artists; Welsh choirs to brass bands. He also has extensive location recording experience including gigs at the Sydney Entertainment Centre, Sydney Town Hall, Newcastle Town Hall, Enmore Theatre and Cessnock Town Hall to name a few. Personally inspired by Rick Rubin, Glenn encourages his students to develop their own unique ‘sound’ to ensure they establish a competitive, sustainable career in the industry.

Richie Poate

Head of Audio Engineering and Sound Production (Melbourne)

Richie is a technically proficient musician (electric and acoustic guitar) with a sound knowledge of music theory and practice, music production, recording, mixing and mastering engineering, Contemporary songwriting, composition and arrangement. Experience in the business aspects of the music industry – contract negotiation, tour and concert organising, promotions and media, grants and relationship building.

Richie Poate

Head of Audio Engineering and Sound Production (Melbourne)

Richie is a technically proficient musician (electric and acoustic guitar) with a sound knowledge of music theory and practice, music production, recording, mixing and mastering engineering, Contemporary songwriting, composition and arrangement. Experience in the business aspects of the music industry – contract negotiation, tour and concert organising, promotions and media, grants and relationship building.

Lewis Mitchell

Audio Engineering Lecturer

Lewis Mitchell is a contemporary record producer, engineer and songwriter. Lewis Mitchell started his career at Jungle Studios in 2013, working with notable artists like Urthboy, Birds Of Tokyo, and JOY. He eventually joined Sony Music in 2016, where he lent his talent and passion for recording to artists such as Delta Goodrem and Gang Of Youths. His work on the latter's album, 'Go Farther In Lightness,' earned the record four ARIA Awards.

During his tenure at Sony, Lewis collaborated with renowned musicians like Johnny McDaid on Ed Sheeran productions and hosted sessions for Anderson Paak and the Free Nationals. In 2018, he joined Forbes Street Studios (Universal Music Group), where he worked closely with Def Jam Recordings to develop emerging talents.

Throughout his career, Lewis worked with a diverse range of artists, including A.B. Original, Amy Shark, A$AP Rocky, and Guy Sebastian. He also contributed to soundtracks for Australian films and TV series like '6 Festivals' and 'Black Snow.'

Currently, Lewis is producing and mixing for various talents at Forbes Street Studios (Universal Music Group), and he is working on Ziggy Ramo's third album, building on their previous successful collaborations, including the acclaimed 'Sugar Coated Lies' album. Lewis Mitchell's versatile contributions have left an indelible mark on the music industry, showcasing his prowess as a producer and songwriter.

Lewis Mitchell

Audio Engineering Lecturer

Lewis Mitchell is a contemporary record producer, engineer and songwriter. Lewis Mitchell started his career at Jungle Studios in 2013, working with notable artists like Urthboy, Birds Of Tokyo, and JOY. He eventually joined Sony Music in 2016, where he lent his talent and passion for recording to artists such as Delta Goodrem and Gang Of Youths. His work on the latter's album, 'Go Farther In Lightness,' earned the record four ARIA Awards.

During his tenure at Sony, Lewis collaborated with renowned musicians like Johnny McDaid on Ed Sheeran productions and hosted sessions for Anderson Paak and the Free Nationals. In 2018, he joined Forbes Street Studios (Universal Music Group), where he worked closely with Def Jam Recordings to develop emerging talents.

Throughout his career, Lewis worked with a diverse range of artists, including A.B. Original, Amy Shark, A$AP Rocky, and Guy Sebastian. He also contributed to soundtracks for Australian films and TV series like '6 Festivals' and 'Black Snow.'

Currently, Lewis is producing and mixing for various talents at Forbes Street Studios (Universal Music Group), and he is working on Ziggy Ramo's third album, building on their previous successful collaborations, including the acclaimed 'Sugar Coated Lies' album. Lewis Mitchell's versatile contributions have left an indelible mark on the music industry, showcasing his prowess as a producer and songwriter.

Beau Sherrard

Senior Audio Lecturer

Formerly an in-house engineer at Q Studios (Rhinoceros Recordings), Beau Sherrard is a sound engineer with over 20 years of studio and teaching experience. Beau has worked with numerous artists including INXS, Grinspoon, The Living End, Mick Hart, Steve Smyth, Sydney Symphony Orchestra, Jack Thompson, Grün, No Apologies, Jungle Fever and the cast of the Lion King. He has designed and teaches numerous units in spatial audio, recording, mixing, mastering and music production.

Beau Sherrard

Senior Audio Lecturer

Formerly an in-house engineer at Q Studios (Rhinoceros Recordings), Beau Sherrard is a sound engineer with over 20 years of studio and teaching experience. Beau has worked with numerous artists including INXS, Grinspoon, The Living End, Mick Hart, Steve Smyth, Sydney Symphony Orchestra, Jack Thompson, Grün, No Apologies, Jungle Fever and the cast of the Lion King. He has designed and teaches numerous units in spatial audio, recording, mixing, mastering and music production.

Thomas Combes

Senior Audio Lecturer and Music Lecturer

Music has been a passion of Thomas' since he picked up his first guitar at the tender age of 10. Fast forward 17 years and Tom’s phenomenal finger-style playing, subtle tone and seasoned musical taste push the boundaries of what is possible on an acoustic guitar. His unique style of playing incorporates finger picking with simultaneous percussion on the soundboard to create a detailed wall of sound.

Tom has toured nationally as an in-demand session player, played on the main stage of several music festivals and has had his signature guitar playing recorded on several albums. These accomplishments have been complemented with his in-depth Audio Engineering and Production knowledge obtained through his degree in the Bachelor of Popular Music at Griffith.

Tom now resides in Brisbane where he lectures Audio classes and teaches guitar at JMC Academy.

Thomas Combes

Senior Audio Lecturer and Music Lecturer

Music has been a passion of Thomas' since he picked up his first guitar at the tender age of 10. Fast forward 17 years and Tom’s phenomenal finger-style playing, subtle tone and seasoned musical taste push the boundaries of what is possible on an acoustic guitar. His unique style of playing incorporates finger picking with simultaneous percussion on the soundboard to create a detailed wall of sound.

Tom has toured nationally as an in-demand session player, played on the main stage of several music festivals and has had his signature guitar playing recorded on several albums. These accomplishments have been complemented with his in-depth Audio Engineering and Production knowledge obtained through his degree in the Bachelor of Popular Music at Griffith.

Tom now resides in Brisbane where he lectures Audio classes and teaches guitar at JMC Academy.

Paul McKercher

Audio Lecturer

Credited with five Aria Awards and hundreds of releases, the Sonic signatures of clarity, power, punch and musicality are the defining qualities of Paul's work. He understands musicians and can tap into the essence of their artistic vision while making the recording process transparent, enjoyable, even transcendent.

Over the course of an extensive career in music production, Paul’s inclusive approach and versatility has led to successful collaborations with artists from multiple genres.

He has a deep technical knowledge and is a multi-instrumentalist with formal training in music (AMEB grade 7) and the recording arts, working at the Australian Broadcasting Corporation for a decade taking the role of Triple J live music producer for three years.

Bringing a critical approach to studio practice and an empathic ear to music production, Paul has written articles, spoken at industry conferences, podcasts and lectured extensively in music production.

Paul McKercher

Audio Lecturer

Credited with five Aria Awards and hundreds of releases, the Sonic signatures of clarity, power, punch and musicality are the defining qualities of Paul's work. He understands musicians and can tap into the essence of their artistic vision while making the recording process transparent, enjoyable, even transcendent.

Over the course of an extensive career in music production, Paul’s inclusive approach and versatility has led to successful collaborations with artists from multiple genres.

He has a deep technical knowledge and is a multi-instrumentalist with formal training in music (AMEB grade 7) and the recording arts, working at the Australian Broadcasting Corporation for a decade taking the role of Triple J live music producer for three years.

Bringing a critical approach to studio practice and an empathic ear to music production, Paul has written articles, spoken at industry conferences, podcasts and lectured extensively in music production.

The in-depth practical work gave me an edge in the real world. Lecturers are knowledgeable and experienced with a real passion for the subject matter, making learning much easier.
Aldo Sampaio - Audio Director, Ubisoft Montreal (Canada)
Audio Alumni
Going to JMC, I really loved the community of students and lecturers - everyone was so supportive and passionate about making great music, films and art.
Angie Watson - Recording Engineer, The Brain Recording Studios
Audio Alumni
There is nothing more artistically satisfying than to have your thoughts and ideas come to life in the form of a finished recording or mix
Peter Mulas - Audiologist, Phonak (Hearing Solutions)
Audio Alumni

Bachelor of Creative Technology (Audio Engineering & Sound Production)

Seamlessly transition into the bachelor's degree with JMC Academy's modular and integrated courses. 

More on this course

Are you ready to take the next step toward your career in Audio?

Avid Certification

After a rigorous review of JMC Academy’s facilities and superior technology used in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane’s Audio courses, JMC Academy is also a certified AVID Training location. This recognition allows JMC Academy to offer 100 and 200 level courses in ProTools for introductory and formal ProTools certification.
This certification makes JMC Academy the only provider in Australia to offer 200 level courses in more than one state.

FAQs

This depends on where you would like to focus your career. Do you want to be a performer, composer, songwriter or learn about the technical aspects of sound, recording and mixing techniques? In JMC's music courses there are units on how to produce your own music which might be worth considering. If you want to know all there is about audio - including how to produce all kinds of music and sound then this is the course for you. Being a musician is an added bonus for this course as the knowledge and skills you have as a musician can be applied to production. Having said that, you don’t need to be a musician to study this course, as basic music theory is included in the curriculum.

No, our courses are hands on and practical. Students are required to attend classes to receive ongoing mentorship, learn new skills and work with the equipment provided. We do encourage our students to use online study resources, however our courses would not be as immersive as they are without the practical component.

No, you need not provide any samples. However, you are welcome to provide samples of work. This may include any recordings you’ve done - whether that be live, studio or in your room, screen shots of any ProTools sessions or examples of any technical experience you've had including PA setup, session setup, helping out at live music events, at school or otherwise. Although not necessary, experience such as this demonstrates your keen interest in pursuing audio as a career.

JMC Academy is broadly recognised and accredited:

  • Registered Higher Education Provider.
  • Accredited by the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA)
  • Registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS).
  • Regulated by the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA).
  • Member of the Independent Tertiary Education Council Australia (ITECA).
  • Nationally recognised within the Australian Qualifications Framework.

Our strong industry links also ensure that JMC Academy qualifications are recognised within the creative industries. 

Yes. The JMC Academy is registered and regulated by the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA) which is Australia’s independent national regulator of the higher education sector, both public and private.