SCHOOL OF MEDIA

DIPLOMA SOUND ENGINEERING

Key Areas of Study

  • Recording & Production: Microphone techniques, signal flow, Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs), music composition, and arrangement.

  • Mixing & Mastering: Audio processing, effects, surround sound, final mix delivery for streaming.

  • Live Sound: Event setup, equipment operation, and technical support for live performances.

  • Post-Production: Sound design for film, TV, Foley, and dialogue editing.

  • Audio Theory: Acoustics, physics, and music theory relevant to sound. 

    Business Skills: Music business fundamentals, marketing, and entrepreneurship.

What You’ll Learn

  • How to operate professional audio gear and software.

  • To record, edit, and mix diverse audio content.

  • To understand and apply sound principles in various media.

  • To work collaboratively in studio and live settings.

Career Paths

  • Studio Recording Engineer

  • Live Sound Technician

  • Music Producer

  • Audio Post-Production Specialist (Film/TV)

  • Broadcast Technician

  • Audio Installation Technician 

 

DIPLOMA STUDIO WORK PRODUCTION

Key Aspects of the Diploma in Studio Work Production

  • Structure: Often structured as N4, N5, and N6 levels (6 months each), followed by 18 months of practical, in-service training to achieve the full N-Diploma.

  • Core Modules: Sound Engineering, Music Business, Arranging & Production, and Electronic Music & Keyboard Technique.

  • Practical Skills: Students learn to operate microphones, audio interfaces, mixing consoles, and DAWs (Digital Audio Workstations) for recording, editing, and mixing, as described in CAE Institute’s 2026 prospectus.

  • Career Paths: Graduates can work as Studio Engineers, Music Producers, Sound Recordists, Audio Post-Production Engineers, and Live Sound Technicians.

  • Requirements: Usually requires a National Senior Certificate (NSC/NCV) at NQF Level 4, with some institutions requiring auditions. 

DIPLOMA IN PERFORMANCE

Key Aspects of Performance Media Diplomas

  • Focus Areas: Programmes often feature specializations in dance, music, theatre arts & design, or broadcasting (radio/TV).

  • Practical Training: Emphasizes hands-on experience, such as studio recording, character development, and live performances.

  • Duration: Ranges from one-year intensive courses to three-year diplomas.

  • Career Paths: Graduates typically enter fields such as acting, voice-over artistry, content creation, radio presentation, or media production.

  • Entry Requirements: Often require auditions or portfolios to showcase potential, especially for arts-focused diplomas. 

DIPLOMA IN VIDEO EDITING

Key Components of a Video Editing Diploma

  • Technical Skills: Training in cutting, transitions, effects, and compositing using professional software.

  • Creative Techniques: Understanding pacing, rhythm, narrative, and visual storytelling.

  • Specialized Areas: Color correction/grading, motion graphics, and audio editing/mixing.

  • Portfolio Development: Creating a demo reel of completed projects to showcase skills to employers. 

Course Structure & Requirements

  • Duration: Typically 6 months, though some programs range from 3 to 24 months.

  • Mode: Available as in-person or online, with many courses focusing on practical, hands-on projects.

  • Prerequisites: Often, no prior experience is required, making them accessible to beginners, though some may require basic computer literacy

Career Opportunities

Graduates can pursue roles such as:

  • Video Editor

  • Colorist

  • Motion Graphics Artist

  • Post-Production Coordinator

  • Content Creator (YouTube, TikTok, Instagram) 

DIPLOMA IN CONTENT CREATION

Core Components of a Content Creation Diploma

  • Video & Audio Production: Skills in shooting with mobile/DSLR cameras, editing (e.g., DaVinci Resolve), lighting, sound design, and producing podcasts or documentaries.

  • Digital Marketing & Strategy: Understanding SEO, social media analytics, content planning, and audience targeting to boost engagement.

  • Graphic Design & Visuals: Creating engaging, branded, and high-quality graphics for social media (Instagram, TikTok) and digital platforms.

  • Writing & Storytelling: Crafting compelling narratives for blogs, scripts, and social media posts.

  • Emerging Technology: Incorporating Generative AI (e.g., Adobe Firefly) for design and understanding Virtual Production or AR/VR tools.

  • Professional Practice: Building a portfolio, personal branding, and freelancing or entrepreneurial skills to turn content into a business. 

Potential Learning Outcomes

  • Develop a professional portfolio of creative work.

  • Understand media law, ethics, and copyright regulations.

  • Master social media platforms and content distribution strategies.

  • Identify, target, and engage specific audiences

Targeted Skills and Career Paths

  • Skills: Video editing, photography, copywriting, graphic design, social media management, brand strategy, and AI tool proficiency.

  • Careers: Content Creator, Digital Marketer, Social Media Manager, Video Editor, Journalist, Copywriter, or Brand Strategist. 

DIPLOMA MEDIA ADVERTISING

Key Components and Curriculum

  • Creative & Strategic Thinking: Developing advertising proposals, creative briefs, and integrated marketing communication (IMC) programmes.

  • Digital & Traditional Media: Covering digital marketing strategies, social media marketing, and traditional advertising techniques.

  • Marketing & Branding: Understanding consumer insights, brand management, and market research.

  • Practical Application: Many programs include real-world case studies, campaign planning, and, in some cases, event management. 

Career Opportunities

Graduates can pursue various roles, including:

  • Advertising and Promotions Manager

  • Social Media Manager/Strategist

  • Brand Manager

  • Media Planner or Buyer

  • Copywriter or Creative Director 

DIPLOMA IN POPULAR MUSIC PRODUCTION

Key Features and Curriculum

  • Core Modules: Sound Engineering, Music Production, Arranging, MIDI Programming, Audio Editing, and Music Business Management.

  • Practical Focus: Intense, hands-on training with industry-standard software (Ableton Live, Logic Pro, Pro Tools) and hardware in professional studios.

  • Typical Content: Recording, mixing, sound design, and mastering for popular music genres. 

Career Opportunities


Graduates can pursue various roles in the music and audio industry, including: 

  • Recording Engineer

  • Music Producer

  • Live Sound Engineer

  • Studio Manager

  • Audio Post-Production Engineer

  • Radio/Jingle Producer