Music Production Program Overviews
Majors Overview February 6, 2013Music production schools offer both associate and bachelor degree programs. The production and engineering process of recording music are taught to students using coursework that combines classroom instruction and hands-on work through internships and laboratory training.
How to Select a Music Production School or University
Students who want to study music production can choose from sound design, audio production, music technology or recording arts programs that are offered in the form of undergraduate degree programs. The choice should depend on the nature of employment sought by the student. Students who seek entry level jobs as assistants can pursue an associate degree; students who want to work as music editors, sound engineers, recording artists or composers should pursue a graduate degree program. Individuals who want to advance or start their own music production company needs to complete a master degree program that focuses on the music business.
Some schools highlight productions while others emphasize on music performance. Depending on the schools, some will require students to have experience with playing a musical instrument, composing or singing. Aspiring students must investigate the specific requirements of individual programs and enroll into the program once they have met the required criteria.
Students should consider the quality of sound equipment and recording studios that a college or university offers. Students are well prepared for the real world, if they complete the program with plenty of studio time that are spent in a well-equipped space and using modern technology. Students can also improve their chances in landing full-time employment by enrolling in a course that offers real life experience through an internship. While choosing a program, students should find out whether the school is capable of placing students in jobs.
Outline of Music Production Programs
Music Production – Associate of Science
Students are provided with useful knowledge through an associate degree program that focus on recording techniques, sound theory and the fundamentals of electricity. The program can be completed within two years, which translates into sixty credits by full-time students.
Music Production – Bachelor of Science
It takes four years to complete a bachelor degree program in music production with coursework focused on liberal arts, music theory, audio recording and music history. Classroom instruction often focused on music production for visual media such as television, film and games. Radio engineering skills and multi-track recording techniques are also taught to students.
Music Production – Master of Fine Arts
Students are prepared to become strong contenders for leadership positions in the music industry through the master degree program. The curriculum focuses on business and technology skills and takes around three years to complete. Studies can be tailored to meet specific students’ interests like sound and music for visual arts and multimedia.
