Acoustic engineers design structures to reduce unwanted noise and enhance desirable sounds. They require an advanced degree and experience as an apprentice or assistant. Most enroll in four-year bachelor’s programs in engineering, mathematics, architecture, or physics. After passing a licensing exam, they can apply for entry-level junior engineer positions and gain experience. With the proper credentials, they can become supervisors and conduct independent research. Many specialists offer consulting services or become professors.
Acoustic engineers work with architects and civil engineering specialists to design structures that minimize unwanted noise and enhance desirable sounds. Many specialists assist in the construction of noise canceling walls, road barriers, airports and commercial buildings. Others consult with designers of concert halls, opera houses and similar facilities. A person who wants to become an acoustic engineer usually needs to earn an advanced degree and spend several years as an apprentice or assistant. A professional who gains experience and passes a required certification exam can become an acoustic engineer at a construction company, government organization, or private consulting firm.
Most future acoustic engineers choose to enroll in four-year bachelor’s programs in engineering, mathematics, architecture, or physics. Upon graduation, an individual has the opportunity to learn about the principles of sound: how waves are generated, dispersed, and controlled. Architecture and engineering courses provide students with hands-on experience working on projects, computer-aided design software, and simulators. Toward the end of a baccalaureate program, a student may begin to apply to accredited graduate schools.
Relatively few schools explicitly offer master’s degrees in acoustic engineering. If a person who wants to become an acoustic engineer cannot find such a program, he or she can still specialize in the subject under a larger mechanical engineering degree plan. An engineering student often has the chance to participate in real-world projects with experienced instructors and industry professionals. Upon graduation, he or she may take a written or computer-based regional licensing exam.
Upon passing the exam, an individual can begin applying for entry-level junior engineer positions in municipal government offices, consulting firms, and construction companies. New engineers typically spend many months in training, learning about the company’s technical policies and procedures firsthand from experienced acoustic engineers. A qualified intern is often rewarded with the opportunity to join a team of junior engineers and work on important, large-scale projects.
Requirements to officially become an acoustic engineer can vary, but professionals in most countries need to gain about four years of experience and pass a second licensing exam. With the proper credentials, an individual gains more responsibilities and has the chance to become an acoustic engineer supervisor, supervising other workers and conducting independent research. A qualified acoustic engineer usually has many opportunities for advancement and career changes. Many specialists offer consulting services in materials engineering factories or return to academia to become full-time or part-time professors.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN