Sound Designer
19AI USED FOR19%moving to64%
THE DOOR, NOWB
THE DOOR, 20 YRSC
STARTING PAY£25,000 - £35,000
PHYSICAL MOATThe work is hands-on, in the real world. Software alone can't do it.
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CAREERMASH (EN)FROM CREATIVE ARTS AND DESIGN →
Sound Designer
Sound designers are the creative architects of auditory experiences, crafting the soundscapes that enhance storytelling in films, video games, and live performances. In a world where audio plays a pivotal role in engagement, their expertise not only elevates entertainment but also shapes the emotional connection audiences have with content globally.
THE DOOR: A easy to E extremely hard, now and in 20 years
This job holds up well against AI
AI is used for very little of what this job actually involves today, and the work is hands-on, in the real world. Software alone can't do it. That is about as safe as careers get right now, though it is still worth learning to use the tools well.
Career progression path
1FIRST STEPJunior Sound DesignerIn this entry-level position, you will assist senior sound designers in creating sound effects and editing audio. You will gain hands-on experience with industry-standard software and learn the basics of sound mixing and mastering.£25,000 - £35,000
2GAINING EXPERIENCEMid-Level Sound DesignerAs a mid-level sound designer, you will take on more complex projects, working independently to create soundscapes that enhance storytelling. You will collaborate with various departments and may supervise junior designers.£40,000 - £55,000
3PEAK CAREERSenior Sound DesignerIn this senior role, you will lead sound design projects from conception to completion. You will mentor junior staff, manage budgets, and work closely with high-profile clients to deliver exceptional audio experiences.£70,000+
Apprenticeship listings for this career → (June 2026 snapshot; check closing dates on the official service)
The degree route
Real courses in this career's subject, from the live library of 35,000; every one is AI impact assessed through its actual graduate destinations.
🎓Performance (Acting)Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts Limited · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£31,500 median
🎓Production ArtsGuildhall School of Music & Drama · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£30,000 median
🎓Theatre and Performance StudiesUniversity of Bristol · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£30,000 median
🎓Game Design and DevelopmentLondon South Bank University · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£28,500 median
🎓Fashion Communication with Business StudiesUniversity of Brighton · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£27,000 median
🎓Music, Multimedia and ElectronicsThe University of Leeds · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£26,000 median
All Creative Arts and Design courses as cards →
There is more than one way in
You do not have to go the university route to get here. There is also a vocational route that skips a degree entirely. Some employers will take you on here with no formal qualifications at all, if you can show you can do the work.
Recommended UK degrees
Real courses that qualify you for this career, from the same register that priced the degree above.
Performance (Acting)Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts Limited · DegreeProduction ArtsGuildhall School of Music & Drama · DegreeTheatre and Performance StudiesUniversity of Bristol · DegreeGame Design and DevelopmentLondon South Bank University · DegreeFashion Communication with Business StudiesUniversity of Brighton · DegreeMusic, Multimedia and ElectronicsThe University of Leeds · Degree