Music Engineering Program Overview
Majors Overview February 5, 2013Music engineering discovers concepts in sound engineering, music informatics, audio equipment design, and acoustics. In this article, we will look at some of the music engineering programs offered in the United States.
Selecting a Music Engineering School
When students choose a music engineering program, they should consider the level of education they wish to pursue. Both bachelor and master degree in music engineering or audio engineering programs are offered by schools and colleges around the nation. If students want an entry-level job in the field, they should seek admission to an undergraduate program devised for the purpose. Master degree programs; by contrast, are for those currently employed as audio engineers who seek additional music and technical skills. Additionally, some associate degree provide the working knowledge, so students can gain immediate employment while other two years associate degree are designed for transfer into an undergraduate degree program.
Computers, audio processors, synthesizers and music software are employed in music engineering. Contemporary industry-standard equipment such as mixing studios and MIDI labs are offered at some schools. Programs with hands-on training using equipment provide students with diverse opportunities to create original work to build their professional portfolio. Students may also be interested in applying for admission to programs that facilitate professional experience in work settings such as local live events, radio stations or studios.
Program Overview: Music Engineering
Music Engineering Associate Degree
The basics of audio mixing and concepts are taught to students; these relate to electronic processing of sound, digital recording and acoustics. Coursework in an associate program includes general education prerequisites such as the humanities, English, science and math. An audio engineering capstone project could also be included in a two-year associate degree program.
Music Engineering Bachelor Degree Program
Undergraduate degree programs in audio or music engineering is usually offered as a Bachelor of Science. The bachelor degree program explores principles in frequency, musical instrument digital interface (MIDI), digital technology and transmission. Along with completing music history courses and general education, students experiment with oscilloscopes, sound mixing, digital recording and frequency counters in electronic labs and recording studios.
Master Degree in Audio Sciences and Recording Technologies
Working professionals can pursue a master degree program to gain additional knowledge about audio engineering and to focus on a specific area of sound. Concentration could involve production, recording, acoustical studios and musical informatics. Acoustics coursework is designed to teach students about designing equipment and spaces customized for specific acoustic characteristics. The program facilitates practices in studio settings for recording engineering students who are taught through working with experienced professionals on how to produce professional-level recordings. Graduate degree programs prepare students to teach in postsecondary programs.
