What is Sound Design?: Course Fees 2025, Subjects, Top Colleges, Admissions
Akansha BishtSenior Executive
Sound Design is the process of creating soundtracks for various needs such as film production, television production, video game development, theatre, sound recording and reproduction, live performance, sound art, post-production, radio, new media and other musical instrument development.
Sound Design classes teach students about the technology and how to integrate it into Sound Design. It offers the comprehensive knowledge of sound recording, the basics of music technology, and sampling, sequencing and mixing techniques used while composing music tracks. Sound Design programs are offered at Diploma, Certification, UG, and PG levels.
Diploma in Sound Recording and Designing, BSc in Sound Design, Diploma in Sound Design, Certificate in Sound Design, and MA in Filmmaking (Sound Design) are some popular courses in this specialization. The eligibility criteria for every Sound Design course varies depending on its level and type.
However, some basic requirements include passing Class 12 from any stream (Arts or Science) with a minimum of 50% aggregate from a recognized board. Admission to Audio Design courses is majorly based on the merit system, however, some universities conduct their university-level exams such as WWI Entrance.
University of Mumbai, AAFT, Bennett University, Whistling Woods International, Film and Television Institute of India, Amity School of Film and Drama, Zee Institute of Media Arts, etc., are some of the top colleges in India to learn Sound Design & Production. The average fee for a course on Sound Design ranges from INR 15,000 to INR 13 Lakh.
Sound Design students can seek employment opportunities in various sectors, including Entertainment, Event Management, Mass Communication & Media, etc. Some popular job profiles in this specialization involve Radio Jockey, Disc Jockey, Music Composer, Sound Engineer, Mixing Professional, etc., with an average salary of INR 3 LPA for a Music Composer in India.
Interested candidates can continue reading the article for more details on Sound Design Degrees.
Links relevant to Sound Design Classes:
The Whistling Woods International Institute of Film, Communication, and Creative Arts has started the WWI 2025 application process. The WWI Entrance Exam Date is on April 25, 2025.
Sound Design Course Details: Highlights
Sound Design involves specifying or creating auditory elements using audio production techniques and equipment. It also includes editing already composed or recorded audio. Sound Design courses are specially designed to train students about the combination of technology and creativity to design and create a sound for professional purposes.
Students who are interested in learning more about Sound Design can see the table below highlighting key points of the specialization:
| Parameters | Course Details |
|---|---|
| Sound Design Course Levels | UG Diploma, PG Diploma, After 10th Diploma, Certificate, UG, and PG. |
| Sound Design Course Duration | UG: 3 - 4 Years PG: 2 Years After 10th Diploma: 3 - 6 Months |
| Sound Design Eligibility Criteria | UG: Class 12 from a recognized board. PG: BA or BSc degree (whichever applicable) in a relevant discipline. After 10th Diploma: Class 10 or equivalent from a recognized institution. |
| Sound Design Admission Criteria | Merit and entrance-based |
| Sound Design Top Colleges | University of Mumbai, AAFT, Bennett University, Whistling Woods International, Film and Television Institute of India, Amity School of Film and Drama, Zee Institute of Media Arts, etc. |
| Sound Design Course Fee | INR 15,000 to INR 13 Lakh |
| Sound Design Job Profiles | Radio Jockey, Disc Jockey, Music Composer, Sound Engineer, Mixing Professional, etc. |
| Sound Design Top Recruiters | Zee Music Company, YRF Music, Saregama Studios, Vividh Bharati, 92.7 Big FM, Red FM, Wizcraft, SKIL Events, etc. |
| Sound Design Average Salary | INR 3 LPA |
Note: The information is sourced from external sites and may vary.
Links useful for Sound Design Classes:
A Detailed Guide on How to Become a Sound Designer in the TV & Film Industry
The future scope of Sound Design look bright, with a growing demand for skilled professionals across various electronic platforms, Radio, Television, etc., driven by the increasing significance on immersive audio experiences and the rise of digital content creation, such as podcasts and audiobooks making it a dynamic field with exciting and highly-rewarding career options for students with the required skills and creativity.
- Sound Design Course Eligibility Criteria
- Sound Design Course Syllabus
- Best Online Sound Design Courses
- Best Sound Design Colleges in India
- Popular Private Sound Design Colleges in India
- Sound Design Career Scope: Job Profiles, Salary and Top Recruiters
- Sound Design Course FAQs
- Popular Sound Design UG Courses
- Popular Sound Design PG Courses
- Popular Exams
Sound Design Course Eligibility Criteria
The eligibility criteria for Sound Design programs differ depending on the colleges, course levels, and types. However, here's the list of basic requirements every candidate needs to fulfil.
| Course Level | Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate/UG Diploma/Certification |
|
| Postgraduate/PG Diploma |
|
| After 10th Diploma |
|
Sound Design Admission Process 2025
Follow these steps if you wish to secure admission in Sound Design Course:
Step-1: Conduct a thorough research about the specific program. Look for the specific universities or colleges offering this program
Step-2: Submit the required documents such as mark sheets, certificates, passport pics, entrance exam scorecards. These are necessary for admission.
Step-3: Fill out the Application Form, You can do this from the official website of the college.
Step-4: Thoroughly prepare for the Entrance Exams and clear their cutoffs (if applicable).
Step-5: College will announce the result within a particular time frame. Wait for it!
Step-6: next, confirm your admission and pay the required fees.
Step-7: Complete any remaining formality and then you are free to proceed with your classes.
The basic requirements to be eligible for BSc in Sound Design include:
Here are some important documents you should carry during the Sound Design admission process to avoid any delay:
- Class 10 and 12 mark sheets (Whichever applicable)
- Relevant bachelor's degree (if applicable)
- Valid ID Proof (Adhaar, PAN Card, Passport, etc.)
- Migration Certificate
- Passport-sized photographs
Sound Design Course Syllabus
Candidates can find a general overview below of the Sound Design course syllabus in India:
Certificate in Sound Design Syllabus
Here are some basic subjects covered in the certificate program:
| Sound Design Certificate Subjects | |
|---|---|
| Introduction and History of Film Sound | Introduction to Sound Design |
| Sound Recording and Recording Chain (Part 1) | Advance Aesthetics |
| Music in film | Sound Recording (Part II) |
| Sound Post-Production and Mixing | - |
BSc (Hons) in Sound Design Syllabus
Here are some basic subjects covered in the BSc program:
| BSc Hons Sound Design Subjects Year I | |
|---|---|
| Experiencing the Digital City | Being Digital |
| Sonic Culture | Programming for Interactive Media |
| Digital Imaging | Producing Digital |
| BSc Hons Sound Design Subjects Year II | |
| Practical Interaction Design | Digital Video Development |
| Expressed through UX | Playful Interaction |
| AI for Creative Industries | Sound Production - II |
| BSc Hons Sound Design Subjects Year III | |
| User-Centered Research Methods | Sound Design - I |
| Creative Technology | Group Project |
| Advanced Interactive Audio | Sound Design - II |
| BSc Hons Sound Design Subjects Year IV | |
| Soundscapes | Digital Storytelling |
| Internship (optional) | Project |
Here are some common subjects covered in a Film Sound Design course:
Film Sound Designing | ||
|---|---|---|
Basics of Sound | Acoustics Fundamentals | Monitoring System |
Microphone Techniques | Consoles & Virtual Mixer | Signal Processors |
Digital Audio Technology | Field Recorders | Sync Sound |
DAW's Application | Track Laying | Production Sound Effects |
Studio Visit (Foley & Track Laying Studio) | Production of the Film Soundtrack | Techniques of Premixing & Session Backup |
Note: The information is sourced from external sites and may vary.
| Parameters | Sound Design | Sound Engineering |
|---|---|---|
Focus | It is a creative process involving sound synthesis, layering, etc. | It is a Technical process involving microphone placement, audio mixing, etc. |
Tools | DAWs, synthesizers, effects processors, etc., tools are used in Sound Designing. | Recording equipment, mixing consoles, audio editing software, etc., are used in Sound Engineering. |
Responsibilities | It helps in creating audio effects for music. | It helps in recording and mixing music. |
Note: The information is sourced from external sites and may vary.
Best Online Sound Design Courses
Students can also learn Sound Design online. Some institutes in India offer a Sound Design degree and certification online. Here are some top college options.
| Best Online Sound Design Courses | Colleges | Tuition Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Certificate in Sound Engineering and Design | DGMC | INR 1.35 Lakh |
| Diploma in Sound Recording and Designing (DSRD) | Mumbai School of Cinematic and Performing Arts | NA |
| Electronic Music Production | Crypto Cipher Academy | INR 60,000 |
| Sound Design for Film Course Online | Zee Institute of Media Arts, Jaipur | NA |
Note: The information is sourced from the official/counselling body of the institute/exam.
Students who wish to learn Sound Design Online:
Top 15 Film Schools in India 2025: Courses Offered, Fees, Scope
Yes, an online Sound Design programme can be a good option for you if you are looking for a flexible way of learning with access to expert instructions and study materials. An online Sound Design course degree or certification is equally valid.
However, there are some things you should consider such as lack of interaction with peers, industry recognition, etc.
Of course, you'll get a valid certificate (recognized by national or international educational institutions) on completing the online Sound Design course, however, its important to select the institute that is approved by the UGC.
Best Sound Design Colleges in India
The number of colleges offering Sound Design programs in India is limited. These colleges offer full-time, distance, and online Sound Design courses on different levels. Interested candidates can find some top college options along with fee details:
| Best Sound Design Colleges | Tuition Fee |
|---|---|
| AAFT | INR 3.09 Lakh |
| Amity School of Film and Drama | INR 2.88 - 4.77 Lakh |
| Bennett University | INR 10.11 Lakh |
| Deviprasad Goenka Management College of Media Studies | INR 1.35 Lakh |
| Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) | INR 48,310 |
| Goodness Institute of Film and Television | INR 1.78 Lakh |
| MIT School of Film and Theatre | INR 11.04 - 13.05 Lakh |
| Ramesh Sippy Academy | INR 98,000 |
| Ramoji Krian Universe | INR 3.5 Lakh |
| Whistling Woods International | INR 6.5 Lakh |
Note: The information is sourced from the official/counselling body of the institute/exam.
Links relevant to the best Sound Design courses:
Top 10 Event Management Colleges in India 2024: Course, Fees, Eligibility, & Placements
Sound Design Applications open. Apply Now
Sound Design Applications open. Apply Now
Here are some top affordable Sound Design college options in India, offering courses under INR 1 Lakh:
| Sound Design Colleges | Tuition Fee |
|---|---|
| Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) | INR 48,310 |
| Ramesh Sippy Academy | INR 98,000 |
| Crypto Cipher Academy | INR 60,000 |
| State University of Performing and Visual Arts | INR 15,000 |
Note: The information is sourced from the official/counselling body of the institute/exam.
Yes, there are a few college options in India offering after 10th Diploma programs in Sound Design. Among them, Gulshan Kumar Film and Television Institute of India in Noida is one of the best options offering Diploma in Sound Designing and Radio Programming. It is a full-time, after 10th Diploma of 3-month duration.
Popular Private Sound Design Colleges in India
Sound Design Applications open. Apply Now
Sound Design Applications open. Apply Now
Sound Design Career Scope: Job Profiles, Salary and Top Recruiters
With the growing popularity of audio and video-based content, the demand for Sound Designers is also increasing. The scope for Sound Design students in the Broadcast and Internet mediums is also upsurging. Sound Designers play an important role in the production and direction of any audio or video content.
Professionals with a good years of experience in this field have a lot of scope to take freelance projects, start their own studio, get a higher-paying job, and so on.
Suggested links for an Audio Design degree:
Voice Over Artist - Course Details, Jobs, Skills
Sound Design Career Scope: Popular Job Profiles
After completing the Sound Design course, the students will be considered eligible to work in various job profiles offered by different industries. Some of the common areas where Sound Design specialists are required are production houses, recording studios and more. Some of the popular job profiles have been listed below.
| Job Profiles | Job Description | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Sound Editors | The job of a sound editor is to create soundtracks by cutting and synchronizing images, sound elements such as production wild tracks, and dialogue tracks in analogue or digital form. | INR 3.4 LPA |
| Sound Engineers | Sound engineers are also known as audio engineers. Their job responsibilities include mixing, reproducing, and manipulating the equalization and electronic effects of sound. | INR 4.4 LPA |
| Sound Recordists | He/she captures all of the sounds on location for a programme, including dialogues, singing and action. | INR 4.4 LPA |
| Radio Jockey | They present music, conduct interviews, interact with listeners live on-air, and create engaging content for radio programs across various genres. | INR 4.1 LPA |
| Disc Jockey | They play music according to the event, mix tracks, create new tracks, and change tempos, etc., to entertain the public. | INR 3.6 LPA |
| Music Composer | They create original soundtracks for different projects like films, shows, music albums, etc. They collaborate with other musicians and work on melodies, harmonies, rhythms, and arrangements for vocals and instruments. |
INR 3 LPA |
Note: The salary information is taken from Ambitionbox.com.
Links useful for Sound Design study:
How To Become a Radio Jockey: Career as RJ, Roles, Responsibilities, Skills, Famous RJs & Salary
Sound Design Career Scope: Top Recruiters
Many companies and studios in the Entertainment, Event Management, Hospitality, etc., industries hire Sound Design professionals for various job roles. Here are some top recruiting companies where Sound Design graduates can seek employment:
| Sound Design Top Recruiters | ||
|---|---|---|
| Zee Music Company | YRF Music | Saregama Studios |
| Vividh Bharati | 92.7 Big FM | Red FM |
| Wizcraft | SKIL Events | Events360 |
| Radio Mirchi | T-Series | DNA entertainment networks |
Note: The information is sourced from external sites and may vary.
To start your career as a Sound Designer, the initial step you should take is to opt for a degree or certificate programme (whichever is suitable) in the Music & Sound Production specialization, gain foundational knowledge about Sound Design, and join big companies or studios as an Intern, as Internship opportunities are relatively easier to get.
After gaining relevant experience from an organization, you can now apply for a job position in your desired company or start freelancing. However, you'd need to build a strong portfolio and goodwill to get big freelance projects.
All the best!
It's not possible to conclude a single job profile as the "the highest-paying", it depends on the work experience, expertise, job position and the employer. However, some of the high-paying job profiles in the Music industry include Music Composer, Sound Engineer, Recording Architect, Music Director, and so on.
Sound Design Course FAQs
Students can refer to this section for Sound Design course FAQs.
To excel in the field of Sound Design, the students are expected to have certain skill sets. Students can check the list of skills required from the table given below.
Creativity | Knowledge of Music | Technical Skills |
Strong Communication Skills | Analytical Skills | Team Work |
Knowledge of Editing Tools | Problem-solving Attitude | A Keen Eye for Attention to Details |
Work Flexibility | Networking | Multi-Tasking |
Note: The information is sourced from external sites and may vary.
To be an authentic sound recordist one must have these basic skills like troubleshooting and problem-solving know-how, knowledge of shooting format, Multi-Tasking etc.
Popular Sound Design UG Courses
UG Courses
- UG Diploma
8 Colleges
- B.Sc.
6 Colleges
- B.A.
4 Colleges
Popular Sound Design PG Courses
PG Courses
- M.A.
4 Colleges
- PG Diploma
3 Colleges
- M.Sc.
1 College
Popular Exams
31 Oct ' 25 | Last Date for submitting Qualifying Exam result (... |
14 Jul ' 25 - 15 Oct ' 25 | JMI Entrance Exam 2025 Counselling |
Oct '25 | SAT Registration Deadline for November Test TENTATIVE |
10 Nov ' 25 | Last Date to Pay Seat Acceptance Fee (Extended) |
Nov '25 | FTII JET 2025 Commencement of Classes TENTATIVE |
News & Updates
Oct 30, 2025
Student Forum
Anything you would want to ask experts?Taking an Exam? Selecting a College?
Find insights & recommendations on colleges and exams that you won't find anywhere else
On Shiksha, get access to
- 65k Colleges
- 1k Exams
- 682k Reviews
- 1800k Answers
- Media Planning
- Visual Communication
- Acting
- Camera Handling & Lighting
- Cinematography
- Direction
- Film Studies / Appreciation
- Modelling
- Production Design
- Screenplay Writing
- Script Writing
- Video Editing (Post Production)
- Anchoring & Reporting
- Cyber Media
- Electronic Media (TV, Radio, Online)
- Print Media
- Photojournalism
- Digitaljournalism
- Disc Jockey
- Sound Editing
- Sound Engineering
- Sound Recording
- Radio Jockeying
- Radio Production
Sound design involves specifying or creating auditory elements using audio production techniques and equipment. It also includes editing already composed or recorded audio. There is always a need for sound designers in production, recording and media houses.
Sound Design course is intended to train students about the combination of technology and creativity to design and create a sound for professional purposes. Students who are creative and have an inclination toward music can excel and contribute to the field of Sound Design.