Acoustical Engineering
Acoustical engineers are problem solvers and opportunity makers involving sound in the natural or made world. Their focus may be concerned with limiting unwanted sound (noise) or improving and enhancing sound quality. Students interested in acoustical engineering are sometimes musicians, or have an interest in how sound impacts the environment around us.
Engineers from this concentration may work in industries such as: construction, defense, automotive, entertainment, technology, health and ecological or biological sciences.
Their work may include: designing acoustically efficient settings (music halls to the inside of a car) to designing ear buds, head phones, microphones, and hearing aids. They may be involved in consulting, or even work in the military or military contracting using acoustics to support our armed forces and naval defense systems.
Plans of Study
In the News
Explaining the sound of Purdue's 'clapping circle' | November 18, 2020
Alumni Highlight
Oscar Otero, '19 MDE Acoustical Engineering, Steps Up His Role for DEI in Acoustical Consulting
‘Fatal Affair’: Composer Matthew Janszen (2005 IDE, Acoustical Engineer) Discusses His Score to Netflix’s New Thriller
A BIG SHOUT OUT for our alumnus Phil Zumbrun (Multidisciplinary Engineering-Acoustical Engineering '10) for achieving the "40 under 40" list of whos-who in Consulting and Specifying Engineer Magazine.
More About Acoustical Engineering
Prof. Rick Thomas and an Industry Partner talk about the field of acoustical engineering.
Last Updated: February 23, 2021