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How to become an acoustical engineer

Most acoustics professionals become interested in the field because of background or interest in music, or an interest in radio, theater, experience design or the arts; and pursue an undergraduate degree in architecture, engineering or a comparable course of study.ÌýCoursework should cover room acoustics, sound isolation, environmental noise, mechanical noise and control, dynamics, circuits, thermodynamics, sound control, bioacoustics, speech, psychoacoustics, and vibrations. For building-related acoustics work, a course on architectural acoustics would be very helpful.

Most employers require at least a bachelor’s degree as a minimum qualification for entry into the workforce; some entry-level jobs will require a master's degree. Important skills include multi-discipline coordination, math, communications (written and oral), creativity and problem-solving.

Role on a LEED project

According to findings from the World Health Organization (WHO), noise is the second largest environmental cause of health problems, just after the impact of air pollution (via particulate matter). Sound pollution is a growing field of environmental science, and we are learning more about the impacts of sound on wildlife and humans.

On a green building project, an acoustician supports the work to provide residences, workspaces, and classrooms that promote occupants’ well-being, productivity, and communications through effective acoustic design. For example, in residences and healthcare spaces, acoustical engineers may help minimize sound levels in sleeping areas to prevent sleep disturbance. In workspaces, acousticians may focus on material selections that minimize noise transfer between office spaces. And in schools, acoustical engineers may evaluate the mechanical equipment noise in classroom spaces so all students can hear their teacher. Acousticians also support sustainability by specifying materials with low embodied energy and minimizing impacts associated with the extraction, processing, transport, maintenance and disposal of those materials.

LEED is the most widely used green building rating system in the world. Available for virtually all building types, LEED provides a framework for healthy, highly efficient, and cost-saving green buildings. LEED certification is a globally recognized symbol of sustainability achievement and leadership.

ÌýÌýLEED credits influenced by this role