KP Acoustics Research Labs Accredited to Deliver IOA Certificate Course in Soundscape Assessment
KP Acoustics Research Labs is delighted to announce that we are now an accredited centre for the delivery of the Institute of Acoustics (IOA) Certificate Course in Soundscape Assessment (CCSA). This pioneering course is delivered in collaboration with a multidisciplinary team of experts from academia, consultancy, and government, reflecting the growing significance of soundscaping in shaping healthier, more engaging environments.
Understanding Soundscapes: Beyond Noise Control
Traditional approaches to noise management have typically focused on reducing unwanted sound, or noise, to comply with statutory limits. While this remains important, recent research and urban experience highlight a more holistic perspective: soundscapes.
A soundscape is the acoustic environment as perceived or experienced by people, in context. It recognises that not all sounds are negative; in fact, some, like birdsong, water features, or gentle urban hums can be beneficial, even desirable. Soundscape design acknowledges that our perception of sound is shaped by psychological, social, and environmental factors, not just decibel levels.
Rather than solely trying to eliminate noise, soundscape thinking encourages the design and management of environments where sound contributes positively to human experience. Be it in a city park, a hospital courtyard, a public transport hub, or a mixed-use development.
Why Soundscape Assessment Matters
From placemaking to mental health, soundscape assessments are becoming vital across numerous sectors:
- Urban design & public realm planning – Designing cities not just to be quieter, but to sound better.
- Healthcare environments – Supporting patient recovery and staff well-being through acoustically enriched spaces.
- Transportation hubs – Enhancing user experience in busy, transitional spaces.
- Residential developments – Moving beyond compliance and offering residents comfort and quality of life.
- Natural spaces & tourism – Preserving or enhancing the acoustic character of areas of environmental or recreational importance.
As the evidence base linking soundscapes to well-being, behaviour, and satisfaction continues to grow, so too does the need for professionals equipped with the skills to assess and shape them effectively.
About the Certificate Course in Soundscape Assessment (CCSA)
The IOA’s CCSA provides the first certificated training in the UK dedicated to the theory and practical methods of soundscape assessment. The course equips participants to understand the principles of soundscaping, undertake field assessments, analyse soundscape data, and produce insightful reports.
Course Structure
The five-day course is divided into three parts:
Day 1 – Introduction to Soundscapes
Explore the fundamentals of soundscape thinking, terminology, and assessment frameworks. This day is also available as a stand-alone CPD module for those wanting a foundational understanding without the full course commitment.
Days 2–3 – Practical Soundscape Assessment
Focused on fieldwork techniques and planning, these sessions provide hands-on experience in setting up and conducting real-world assessments.
Days 4–5 – Data Analysis & Reporting
Participants will work with case studies and datasets to learn how to interpret results, apply soundscape metrics, and prepare professional assessment reports.
Led by a Cross-Sector Expert Team
The CCSA is delivered by a highly respected, multi-disciplinary team:
- Dr Chris Barlow – KP Acoustics Research Labs
- Professor Bill Davies – University of Salford
- Ben West – Birmingham City University
- Dr Martin McVay – Welsh Government
This team brings together academic rigour, policy insight, and practical consultancy experience, offering a rich, interactive learning experience underpinned by real-world relevance.
Upcoming Course Dates
Location: University of Salford
Date: 3–7 November 2025
Whether you’re a consultant, planner, designer, regulator, or academic, the CCSA offers a unique opportunity to gain accredited training in a cutting-edge field that’s reshaping how we understand and design the environments we live, work, and move through.
For more information or to reserve your place, please contact: education@kpacoustics.com | 0208 222 8778 | 02382 544 965