Also known as: Audio Technology, Sonic Arts, Music Production and Technology
A program that focuses on sound as a form of cultural expression, and its relationship to other disciplines such as computer programming, performance, and video. Includes instruction in acoustics; arranging, composing, and editing music; music theory; musicology; orchestration and scoring; and sound
Your week kicks off with Acoustics 101, the hum of the lecture hall a familiar drone before Dr. Chen dives into wave theory. Later, in the Digital Audio Workstations lab, you’re fumbling with Logic Pro X, trying to isolate a resonant frequency for your first sound design assignment. A quick chat with your TA clarifies a confusing compressor setting. Lunch with friends follows, discussing weekend plans before your Music Theory lecture. You spend the evening reviewing sheet music, practicing sight-reading. It feels like a lot, but the foundational knowledge is crucial.
High School Preparation
Required Subjects
MusicPhysicsMathematicsComputer Science
Recommended GPA
3.0-4.0
Advanced Courses (AP/IB/Honors)
AP Music Theory
AP Computer Science Principles
IB Music
Core Subjects
Click on "i" to learn more about each subject
Career Prospects
Growing Study Prospects
Graduates can become sound designers for film/games, audio engineers, music producers, or multimedia artists. Opportunities also exist in performance art, broadcast, and educational roles related to sound technology.
Impact of AI on this Study
AI is significantly impacting sound arts through generative music, intelligent audio processing, and advanced sound synthesis tools, offering new creative avenues and efficiencies for artists and producers. Understanding AI's applications becomes crucial for innovation in the field.