Ultimate Entertainment Education
Academy of Sound Engineering (ASE) stands as South Africa’s premier accredited audio and music production institution, delivering world-class qualifications in sound engineering, audio technology, music production, live sound, and broadcast technology. Established in 1997, the academy has become the industry-leading provider of cutting-edge qualifications for aspiring audio professionals. Council on Higher Education (CHE) accredited, DHET registered, and SAQA and CATHSSETA accredited, ASE maintains the highest standards of educational excellence and professional recognition.
Located at the iconic SABC Radio Park complex in the heart of South Africa’s broadcast and media hub, the Academy of Sound Engineering features state-of-the-art recording studios and industry-standard equipment operated by award-winning lecturers with global credentials. This unique blend of academic rigor and practical industry expertise ensures graduates are job-ready professionals equipped with both theoretical knowledge and hands-on studio experience.
With campuses in Johannesburg and Cape Town, Academy of Sound Engineering delivers exceptional education accessible to students across South Africa. The institution’s commitment to transforming aspiring audio professionals into industry leaders has made it the first choice for students serious about sound engineering careers.
2026 Intake Applications: Academy of Sound Engineering welcomes applications throughout the year, with formal intake dates aligning with the academic calendar. Students are admitted on a rolling basis subject to meeting all admission requirements, meaning applications can be submitted at any time and admission decisions communicated promptly. Prospective students are encouraged to apply early to secure placement in their preferred intake, as popular programmes may reach capacity.
Academic Year Structure: The 2026 academic year operates on a standard semester-based schedule. First semester typically commences in February 2026, with second semester beginning in July 2026. Students planning to commence in 2026 should submit applications by December 2025 to ensure timely processing and enrollment into the first semester intake.
Non-Refundable Registration Deposit: All students must pay a R5,000 registration deposit per course prior to the start of lectures to confirm 2026/2027 enrollment. This deposit is non-refundable and deductible from published tuition fees.
Competitive and Transparent Pricing: Academy of Sound Engineering charges competitive tuition fees reflecting the exceptional quality of education, world-class facilities, and industry-expert instruction. Exact fees vary by programme level and course structure, ranging from R5,000 registration deposits upward depending on whether students pursue certificates, diplomas, or specialized media programmes. All fees are clearly itemized, and students receive detailed cost breakdowns during the application process.
Fee Components: Published fees cover tuition instruction, access to state-of-the-art recording studios, industry-standard equipment usage, digital audio workstation software licenses, and learning materials. Students must budget separately for textbooks, specialized audio kits, and course-specific supplies. Financial Aid Contacts: Telephone (+27) 11 482 9200 or email info@ase.co.za for detailed fee schedules.
Payment Options: The academy accepts payments via bank transfer, electronic funds transfer (EFT), debit order, and credit card. Students unable to pay fees in full upfront may explore extended payment arrangements negotiated directly with the Financial Aid Department.
General Admission Criteria: All programmes require National Senior Certificate (NSC) or equivalent qualification. For Higher Certificate in Audio Technology, applicants need NSC with minimum pass in English and other relevant subjects. For Diploma level qualifications, applicants require NSC with minimum pass in English and Mathematics, as mathematical concepts underpin acoustics, digital audio, and technical audio specifications.
Bachelor’s Degree Pathway: Students pursuing degree-level qualifications must demonstrate NSC with Degree endorsement, strong pass in English and Mathematics, and strong Academic Performance Score (APS). Students below these thresholds should consider progressing through Higher Certificate to Diploma pathways.
Experience and Prerequisites: While not mandatory, relevant work experience and demonstrated interest in audio technology strengthen applications. No entrance examinations are required; admission decisions rely on meeting documented prerequisites and successful application submission.
Johannesburg Campus – South Africa’s Media Hub: The primary campus at the legendary SABC Radio Park in Auckland Park positions students at the epicenter of South Africa’s broadcast and audio production industry. This iconic location houses state-of-the-art recording studios, post-production facilities, and broadcast infrastructure. Address: 82 Richmond Avenue, Auckland Park, Johannesburg 2092 | Phone: (+27) 11 482 9200
Cape Town Campus: Established in 2016, the Cape Town campus features professional recording studios, music production labs, and broadcast audio training spaces. Address: 12 De Roos Street, Zonnebloem, Cape Town | Phone: (+27) 21 461 0640
Both campuses operate identical curricula, employ qualified instructors, and provide access to professional-grade facilities. While the academy does not provide on-campus housing, both locations are situated in areas with abundant student accommodation options.
Simple Application Process: Prospective students apply through the official online application platform at forms.ase.co.za/applications_2026/, which guides applicants through programme selection, personal information entry, qualification confirmation, and document submission. The online system provides immediate confirmation of application receipt.
Required Documents: All applicants must provide certified copy of National Senior Certificate (NSC), identification document (SA ID or passport), current contact information, and proof of residence. International applicants require passport copies and proof of English language proficiency.
Admission Decision: Applications are processed on a rolling basis, with decisions communicated within 5-10 business days. Admitted students receive formal acceptance letters via email. To confirm enrollment, students must pay the non-refundable R5,000 registration deposit per course.
Telephone Support: Contact the Admissions Office at (+27) 11 482 9200 during business hours for application guidance.
Johannesburg Campus (Head Office): Located at the iconic SABC Radio Park, 82 Richmond Avenue, Auckland Park, Johannesburg 2092. Telephone: (+27) 11 482 9200 | Email: info@ase.co.za
Cape Town Campus: Located at 12 De Roos Street, Zonnebloem, Cape Town. Telephone: (+27) 21 461 0640 | Email: capetown@ase.co.za
Online: Visit ase.co.za for inquiries. Application Portal: Submit 2026 applications at forms.ase.co.za/applications_2026/. Prospective students are encouraged to arrange campus tours of either facility.
Johannesburg
Cape Town
Academy of Sound Engineering offers comprehensive nationally accredited qualifications designed to prepare students for dynamic careers in the audio industry.
Higher Certificate in Audio Technology: A foundational two-year qualification providing essential competencies in recording techniques, audio equipment operation, mixing fundamentals, and studio management. Students develop proficiency in Pro Tools, Logic Pro, Ableton Live, and other industry-standard DAWs.
Diploma in Audio Technology: An advanced three-year qualification delivering mastery in sound engineering, audio production, live sound reinforcement, broadcast audio, and advanced mixing and mastering techniques.
Higher Certificate in Television and Screen Media: A specialized two-year programme combining audio production with visual media skills, training students in post-production audio, sound design for video, and dialogue editing.
Diploma in Television and Screen Media: A comprehensive three-year qualification combining advanced audio production with cinematography, editing, animation, and post-production management.
NSFAS Bursary Programme: Eligible South African students may access National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) support for accredited ASE programmes. NSFAS evaluates financial need based on household income, providing bursaries that cover tuition fees and living allowances. ASE’s CHE accreditation and DHET registration ensure programmes qualify for NSFAS funding consideration.
Extended Payment Plans: Academy of Sound Engineering works with students to develop sustainable payment arrangements spreading tuition costs over manageable installments. The Financial Aid Department accommodates individual circumstances.
Employer Sponsorship: Working professionals may access employer-sponsored study leaves and professional development grants. Many broadcasting organizations, media companies, and recording studios sponsor employee development. ASE’s industry partnerships enhance opportunities for professional sponsorship.