Essential Information
Students in a sound engineering master's program learn about the technologies used to produce and record sound for movies, concerts, radio broadcasts, video games and musical compilations.
Prerequisites include a bachelor's degree in sound technology, music or electrical engineering; references; a personal interview; a portfolio of creative and professional work in sound technology or music. Prerequisite coursework can include musical history and theories, physics, calculus and audio recording fundamentals.
Master's Degree in Sound Engineering
Labs and seminars make up the majority of the courses in a sound engineering master's degree program. Labs provide hands-on technical training for digital recording and mixing equipment. Seminars discuss theories, practices and issues relating to audio technology. Training integrates principles of electrical and computer engineering, acoustics, creative learning and the cultural influences of music technology. Coursework may also include:
- Training the ear
- Tone recognition
- Digital recording acoustics
- Acoustics: physical, psychological, musical and electrical
- Mixing techniques
- Principles in hearing sound
Popular Careers
Sound engineering is the study of recording and reproducing sound through the use of mechanical and computer technology. Careers in sound engineering are wide ranging. Graduates may specialize in live recording and production or may choose a post-production career in video games or screenplay scores. Positions may include:
- Recording engineer
- Production mixer
- Sound effects editor
A master's degree program in sound engineering involves high-level training in all areas of the field from tone recognition to acoustics to sound mixing techniques. The curriculum consists of a mix of seminars and labs, which provides graduates with a solid foundation for a career as a sound engineer.
