Top 12 Online Music Production Degree Programs

Online music production degrees are perfect for aspiring musicians and producers in the digital age. They offer high-quality education through virtual classrooms and experience with industry experts. Best of all, an online music production degree provides the foundation and expertise to excel in the music industry.

If you want to be a music production major, now may be the time to search for music production schools online. In the first half of 2020 alone, the music industry had $5.7 billion dollars in sales. If you want to be a part of that, consider getting an online music production degree to start your career.

Article Navigation: Is an Online Music Production Degree Right for You? | What Level is Best for Online Music Production Degree? | Music Production Bachelor’s Degree Online Details | Top Online Music Production Degree Programs | Cost of a Music Production Degree Online | Accredited Music Production Schools Online | Careers for Music Production Majors | Admission Requirements for Music Production Online Programs | Apply Today!

Is an Online Music Production Degree Right for You?

Many people enjoy listening to music. But if you are passionate about creating music, then you may be a perfect candidate for music production schools online. Whether or not you play an instrument, you can still be a part of the business by becoming a music producer or a sound engineer. For those who also like to create music, your career options could include being a music teacher, a music director, a music therapist, or a composer.

The great thing about getting a music production online degree is that you can keep your current job while you train for something you will love as a career. Whether you are young or old, musically talented, or have a good ear, music production schools online may be the right choice.

Music production colleges provide you with excellent skills. These skills apply to careers that are more focused on the music side or that are more in the engineering and production category. Every musician needs to know something about music recording, and every sound engineer needs to understand a lot about music. It’s possible to learn online music production and then take those skills straight into working in sound engineering. But it is good to know your own goals and have an idea of your focus, to begin with. Those will help you choose the music production school that offers you the training to help you in your career.

Remember that some schools focus more on music theory and performance, with fewer recording and mixing classes. At the same time, other programs have a more technical focus. Finding the right balance for your interests is an important consideration as you explore the schools for music producing that offer online degrees.

In-Person vs. Online Music Production Courses

In-person and online music production courses offer their own advantages. For example, in-person courses facilitate direct interaction with teachers and peers. You’d be in classrooms or studios, enabling feedback and hands-on work with professional equipment. They also provide direct networking and industry connections.

On the other hand, music production online courses offer convenience. You just have remote access to course materials. In other words, they fit well with personal schedules. They provide extensive multimedia resources—for instance, tutorials and virtual simulations. However, online courses may lack practical experience and specialized equipment access.

Some advantages of in-person music production courses include:

• Ability to help with physical placement of fingers and access to instruments and materials
• Establishing a more personal connection with teachers & staff
• Work with other students in an environment specifically designed for focus and effective learning

What Level is Best for Online Music Production Degree?

Online music production education’s “best” level depends on your goals, aspirations, and situation. If you are entering the industry, an associate degree may be best. Consider a bachelor’s degree if you transfer credits from an associate’s degree or want to advance your career. The best master’s programs will also open up excellent opportunities, often in leadership positions. Ultimately, the best level for an online music production degree depends on factors such as:

• Career goals
• Desired level of expertise
• Available time commitment
• Personal preferences

Research and evaluate the curriculum, faculty, and resources different programs offer. Focus on your personal needs. Here are some reviews for different degree levels:

Associate’s in Music Production Online

An online associate degree in music production is a great starting point. Associate degrees are suitable for entry-level jobs in the music industry. They also benefit those pursuing further education at the bachelor’s level. Generally, it provides a basic foundation in music production skills. It also covers:

• Music technology
• Recording techniques
• Industry practices

Bachelor’s in Music Production Online

An online bachelor's degree in music production offers a more extensive study of music. For example, production concepts, techniques, and industry-related subjects. A bachelor’s degree is suitable for those pursuing jobs within the music production field. Some popular careers include music producer, sound engineer, or studio technician. It equips students with a broader skill set and a deeper knowledge of:

• Music theory
• Composition
• Mixing
• Mastering

Master’s in Music Production Online

An online master's degree in music production focuses on advanced concepts, research, and specialization. A master’s degree is suitable for advanced positions in the music industry. The most popular include music directors, post-production supervisors, or educators at the collegiate level. It offers a deeper exploration of areas such as:

• Music technology
• Digital composition
• Sound design
• Audio post-production

Doctorate in Music Production Online

A doctorate degree in music production is not common. It may not be necessary or “best” for music production careers. You may find doctorate degrees in music production in more academic settings. They focus heavily on research, teaching, or highly specialized areas within music production.

Music Production Bachelor’s Degree Online Details

You don’t absolutely need a bachelor’s degree to become a music producer. But getting this basic degree under your belt is a good way to lock in a solid education while getting a music production online degree. With a Bachelor of Science (BS), a Bachelor of Arts (BA), or a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degree, you will get many courses in your major, but also take general education classes like English composition, math or science, humanities courses like psychology or anthropology, and other useful classes.

Courses in a music production bachelor’s degree online usually include:

• Music theory and history
• Recording and mixing
• Industry software training like Pro Tools or Ableton
• Music business
• Specific music applications like sound design for gaming or animation
• Music performance or songwriting classes
• Creating projects for your demo reel

Top Online Music Production Degree Programs

Associate Level

1. Academy of Art University

   Degree: Online Associate of Arts in Music Production
   Total Cost (In-State & Out-of-State): $25,728

   To begin with, the online AA in Music Production from Academy of Art University provides students with a solid foundation in music creation and editing. The program consists of 18 credits of liberal arts, 33 core credits, and 15 credits in the major. Courses include music theory, production, recording industry history, film music, Pro Tools, mixing, songwriting, Ableton Live Certification, and music editing.

   With a strong online community of arts students, music production students will learn the art and the craft of music within a digital environment. Collaboration with students from the Motion Picture & Television, Animation & Visual Effects, and Game Design programs provides opportunities to combine music with visuals in preparation for a professional career in music and sound.

   Notably, professional musicians and sound designers teach these courses. For technical, professional, and production skills in a highly interactive and successful online format, the AAU associate’s degree is a great entry point for those who want a high-quality online education.

   Find Out More:
   Associate of Arts in Music Production

    

2. Los Angeles Film School

   Degree: Online Associate of Science in Music Production
   Total Cost (In-State & Out-of-State): $32,500

   Los Angeles Film School’s online AS in Music Production takes 20 months to complete and offers a total of 60 credits that include lots of music-specific courses. In addition to general education courses in mathematics, behavioral science, and creative writing, students spend most of their time concentrating on the technical and creative skills for music production. There is even a course on music business management to prepare students for their professional careers.

   Music courses include sequencing technology, theory and composition, digital recording, digital audio workstations, mixing, music copyright and business, and advanced production and industry skills. The school provides students with the production tools they will need to complete their degree and get a start in the music business, including a MacBook Pro, Logic Pro, Pro Tools, Ableton Suite, headphones, MIDI keyboard, USB audio interface, a condenser mic, and more. For students who want a quick start to their professional career with all the gear and skills they will need to make a splash in music or sound design, the LA Film School program is a great online program.

   Find Out More:
   Associate of Science in Music Production

    

Bachelor Level

1. Virginia Wesleyan University

   Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Music Production/Digital Music Production Degree
   Total Cost (In-State & Out-of-State): $47,880

   This online music production online degree stands out as innovative and cross-practice. The degree seamlessly merges traditional music study and cutting-edge digital technologies.

   The main facet of this program is its unwavering focus on digital music production and technology. It offers unrivaled access to recording studios, MIDI labs, and advanced software applications. Students can expect a curriculum covering:

   – Music composition
   – Recording
   – Editing
   – Mixing
   – State-of-the-art digital tools

   Overall, this program integrates music theory, history, and performance with digital music production. The program’s emphasis on experiential learning serves as a catalyst for growth and artistic exploration.

   The BA in Digital Music offers an exhaustive and forward-thinking education. It empowers students to forge impactful careers as:

   – Composers
   – Producers
   – Sound designers
   – Multimedia artists
   – Music educators

   Find Out More:
   Bachelor of Arts in Digital Music

    

2. Liberty University

   Degree: Bachelor of Science in Commercial Music / Music Production
   Total Cost (In-State & Out-of-State):$48,492
   

   This program offers a unique blend of creativity and industry-focused training. With 120 credit hours, this program equips students to thrive in the competitive music production field.

   The program incorporates a strong foundation in music theory. Also, composition and arranging empower students to create compelling and innovative music. Liberty University’s strong focus on faith integration sets it apart. Students can explore the intersection of music production and their personal beliefs. The program nurtures technical expertise and a deeper knowledge of the role of music in worship and ministry.

   In addition to the core music production courses, students can choose from specialized electives. For example, live sound reinforcement, music business, film scoring, etc. In other words, tailor your education to your interests and goals within the music industry.

   Find Out More:
   Bachelor of Science in Commercial Music / Music Production

    

3. Calvary University

   Degree: Bachelor of Music Performance & Pedagogy
   Total Cost (In-State & Out-of-State): $51,600

   The music production bachelor degree online of Music in Music Performance and Pedagogy from Cavalry University offers three choices of performance focus: instrumental, piano, or voice. The program gives an excellent foundation in music theory, history, and literature and offers a course in music technology. In addition, courses in theology, mathematics, science, and English composition round out the program.

   Calvary University offers education from a biblical worldview woven throughout the program. Online students can study from almost anywhere, and there is a special tuition rate for military and full-time ministry workers. International students are welcome and supported at Calvary, and the music program has a strong professional and Christian focus. For students of faith who want to study music production online or in a community of fellow believers, the BM from Cavalry University makes a great choice for an affordable music production bachelor’s degree online.

   Find Out More:
   Bachelor of Music in Music Performance & Pedagogy

    

4. Full Sail University

   Degree: Bachelor of Science in Music Production
   Total Cost (In-State & Out-of-State): $86,000

   With a full array of music and recording classes and an accelerated schedule, the online BS in Music Production at Full Sail University offers a comprehensive education for people looking to become true professionals in the music production business. The focus is on music creation and production, with special emphasis on the application of music production in the entertainment industry. Courses include Popular Culture in Media, Topics in Music Theory, Sequencing Technology, Audio Arts in the Entertainment and Media Industries, and Game Music Composition. The degree is in an accelerated 29-month format, fully online, and there are scholarships and financial aid available.

   Music production majors can choose to get Full Sail’s Project Launchbox, with a full complement of equipment for music recording and production, for a separate cost, while other supplies like textbooks are included in the tuition price. The tuition price is locked once you begin the program, so you know you will not see increases during your degree. Full Sail University’s BS in Music Production is a terrific online music production degree for career-oriented students who want a comprehensive and supportive program to give them all the professional skills they will need to be successful.

   Find Out More:
   Bachelor of Science in Music Production

    

5. Full Sail University

   Degree: Bachelor of Science in Audio Production
   Total Cost (In-State & Out-of-State): $86,000
   

   Full Sail University specializes in educating professionals for the media and entertainment industry, so you know that the online BS in Audio Production is a serious program for those who want to succeed in their career in audio production. Designed for entrepreneurial self-starters, this program gives students the skills and knowledge to become independent audio creators.

   This innovative accelerated program is a compact 29-month, fully online program. Each month, the curriculum focuses on a different aspect of the music business, such as recording principles, structure of music, sound design for games, history of recorded music, audio workstations, and fundamentals of the music business. In addition to high-quality sound and music courses, the program includes coursework in professional writing, physics, psychology, mathematics, and English composition.

   In addition to learning skills, there are months devoted to projects and portfolio production. Students can take advantage of the Project LaunchBox, which provides all the technology they will need to complete their projects and get started as professionals, but this option is an extra cost. There are some scholarships available, and textbooks and materials are included in the price of tuition. For students looking for a business-focused professional program that prepares them to step right into the audio business, the BS from Full Sail University is a great choice.

   Find Out More:
   Bachelor of Science in Audio Production

    

6. Academy of Art University

   Degree: Bachelor of Fine Arts in Music Production
   Total Cost (In-State & Out-of-State): $102,912

   For students who want the quality professional education that Academy of Art University provides but want more than the AA degree, the online BFA in Music Production is the perfect choice. The total program is 132 credits, with 42 in the major, 45 in liberal arts, 36 core, and nine credits of electives. In addition to the coursework in the AA program, BFA students will study film history, arranging, real-time mixing, songwriting, physics for artists, Western civilization, vocal production, history of gaming, respect for acting, music demo reel, and an internship.

   In addition to production skills and professional preparation, this program also focuses on developing critical thinking skills. AAU has a world-class interactive interface for online students, collaboration spaces, dedicated support, and a thriving online community of creatives. For students who want to be part of a creative community while they learn to produce music online, the BFA from Academy of Art University is a great online music production degree.

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   Bachelor of Fine Arts in Music Production

    

Master Level

1. Indiana University Online

   Degree: Master of Science in Music Technology
   Total Cost (In-State & Out-of-State): $12,960

   The MSMT degree is a professional graduate degree program. It’s designed to train future specialists in the field of Music Technology. In general, the program covers creative and technical applications of music technology. You will delve into subjects such as Synthesis and Audio Programming. Also, music technology history, the physics of sound, and more. Through elective courses, students explore related fields such as:

   – Artificial intelligence
   – Acoustics
   – Multimedia design
   – Telematics music
   – Research

   The degree culminates with either a project or an internship. In any case, students apply their creative, technical, theoretical, and historical knowledge. To apply, prospective students must complete an online application. But first, they must already hold a bachelor’s degree with substantial work in creative or technical areas related to music technology. Then students need to provide official transcripts, letters of recommendation, and an e-portfolio. Specifically, the e-portfolio must comprehensively showcase their work. Finally, students will participate in an interview before admittance to the program. The degree requires a total of 30 credit hours. That includes:

   – 18 credit hours in core courses
   – Six credit hours in cognate courses from various related fields
   – Additional six credit hours from cognate courses or approved electives from other fields

   Find Out More:
   Master of Science in Music Technology

    

2. University of Valley Forge

   Degree: Master of Music in Music Technology / Production
   Total Cost (In-State & Out-of-State): $14,370
   

   This online program builds upon the foundation of an undergrad music degree. It provides the necessary hardware and software technologies used in the music industry today. Overall, it focuses on developing musical and technical skills required by creative artists, incorporating current research and technology. There is plenty of flexibility through virtual learning. This learning style benefits educators, worship leaders, performers, and composers.

   This master’s in music technology and production takes a total of 33 credit hours. They may take place either over three summers or in a traditional two-year format. Most courses are 3 credit hours, except for applied-performance courses, which vary from 1 to 2 credits each.

   The University of Valley Forge provides state-of-the-art facilities. For example, a digital audio recording studio, broadcast studios, video editing and audio production suites, and a multimedia production room. At this online audio production school, each student is assigned a fully-equipped workstation during classes.

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   Master of Music in Music Technology / Production

    

3. Academy of Art University

   Degree: Master of Fine Arts in Sound Design
   Total Cost (In-State & Out-of-State): $58,464

   The MFA in Sound Design online focuses on providing advanced training for visual media, such as film, television, and games. Students will gain a complete understanding of the audio post-production process. That includes recording and editing to create a cohesive sonic landscape that enhances a narrative. Throughout the program, students will work on a thesis project. In addition, they’ll build a portfolio to showcase their skills and knowledge in professional workflows. Both will prepare them for success in the soundtrack industry. The courses offered in the program cover a range of topics relevant to sound design. In the first semester, students:

   – Explore creative perspectives in sound design
   – Learn about sound design techniques
   – Prepare for Pro Tools user certification

   Subsequent semesters delve into areas such as:

   – Audio production
   – Sound design for games
   – Motion picture post-production

   The program also includes courses on experimental sound design and synthesis, anthropology, podcast production and promotion, and directed study for further specialization. The final semester focuses on professional practices in music and sound design, the completion of the directed study, and the development of a final portfolio.

   Find Out More:
   MFA in Sound Design

    

4. Academy of Art University

   Degree: Master of Arts in Sound Design
   Total Cost (In-State): $58,464

   The online MA in sound design curriculum is four semesters. Each focuses on different aspects of sound design, music production, and audio editing. Overall, you will gain a range of skills in sound design, music production, and audio editing relevant to media industries. In Semester one, students learn the fundamentals of sound design and music production through courses like Sound Design and Pro Tools User Certification Preparation. Also, students will study the soundtrack industry. These courses cover recording, editing, mixing, and industry-standard tools to create soundtracks for motion pictures.

   Semester two delves into the creative aspects of sound design at this audio production school online. Students explore how sound design supports aesthetics and narrative elements in motion pictures in courses:

   – Creative perspectives in sound design.
   – Audio production teaches recording techniques, microphones, signal flow, and audio editing skills
   – Creative sound design for visual media enhances audio editing, acoustics, plug-ins, and mixing skills.

   Semester three offers specialized courses in:

   – Sound design for games. Recording, editing, and integration of voice, sound effects, and music.
   – Music editing for visual media. This emphasizes music editing skills for creating musical moods in visual media clips.
   – Motion picture post-production. Professional soundtracks, focusing on scoring, sound design, and audio balancing.

   Semester four allows students to refine their skills further. It entails:

   – ProTools 2 Operator Certification Preparation. Advanced audio production training. Prepares students for level 2 Avid Pro Tools Operator Certification exams.
   – Experimental sound design & synthesis. Explores experimental sound design and sound synthesis using tools like Pro Tools, Logic Pro X, and Omnisphere.
   – Music and sound design professional practices. Centers around creating a final portfolio that showcases music and sound design elements.

   Find Out More:
   MA in Sound Design

    

Cost of a Music Production Degree Online

Schools for music producing costs can vary widely for a complete program or degree. An online music production degree like an associate’s can have a sticker price of as little as $25k or more than $30k. A music production bachelor’s degree online can cost around $50k to $120k or more. But scholarships and student aid are available for degree-granting programs, and many students don’t pay the advertised total price.

While it is a big investment to get your music production degree online, it is cheaper than going to a residential school, as you can stay in your current living situation while studying at one of the top music production colleges in the country. GetEducated has identified some of the best schools for music producing that will give you a great music production online degree.

Accredited Music Production Schools Online

While no specific accreditation exists for music production programs, regional accreditation is still important. Regional accreditation ensures that a school meets standards of quality. Accredited schools have programs recognized and respected by other institutions and employers.

There are six recognized accrediting bodies that grant regional accreditation. They include:

1. Higher Learning Commission (HLC) – covers the central states region
2. Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) – covers the mid-Atlantic region
3. New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) – covers the New England region
4. Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) – covers the Northwest region
5. Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) – covers the southern region
6. WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) – covers the western region

An accredited music production school online ensures high-standard and quality education. The credits earned can be transferred to other institutions if needed. It is essential to verify the status of any online music production program they are considering. You want to make a wise investment in your education.

Careers for Music Production Majors

Online colleges for music production have many benefits. Everyone knows that making it as a musician can be hard. But if you add other skills, like mixing and sound recording to your toolkit, you have more ways to make a living with your musical skills. While many of us would like to be on stage crooning to a stadium of adoring fans, that is not the most practical plan for a career that can pay your bills. However, behind the scenes, there are numerous positions where your love of music can bring you a good income and allow you to enjoy your passion while also keeping a roof over your head. Check out this article for a shortcut to the 10 Highest Paying Music Industry Jobs.

Exploring Technical Career Paths

If you decide to go the technical route, broadcast and sound engineering technicians make an average of $48,790 per year, and the job outlook is expected to increase much faster than average by 10% between 2021 and 2031. Music directors and composers average $49,130 annually, and employment is expected to rise 5% over the next ten years. On the other hand, a related possibility would be to become a producer or director, for which the average annual pay is $79,000, with an expected 8% increase in the next decade.

Teaching is a popular profession for those who may wish to go a different route. Elementary, middle, and high school teachers make around $60k per year, though you may also need to get a teaching credential to work in public schools. But many music majors may also teach private lessons at community centers or private schools. With the technical skills of music producing and musical knowledge, many other careers may be open to ambitious graduates with a devotion to the creative. For those who do what they love, the path to success may not be straight, but it can be very satisfying.

Opportunities in the Evolving Field of Audio Engineering

Careers in the arts can be a bit less predictable than other types of careers, but with the demand for audio engineers in all types of broadcasts, gaming, animation, and commercial video rising, jobs may be open to recent graduates with the most up-to-date technical skills. One advantage of working in a field that has frequent technical advances is that coming right out of school, you often have the advantage of knowing the latest software and hardware in the industry, giving you a competitive edge to compensate for your lack of work experience.

On the other hand, even in technical jobs, experience is highly valued, so the more successful jobs you have, the farther you can rise in your chosen area of the industry. The BLS reports that average salary for sound engineers is around $75,590, with an expected employment rise of 5.1% over the upcoming years.

Entrepreneurial Paths in Music Production

More entrepreneurial music production school graduates may wish to start their own business, either by opening up a recording studio or becoming a freelance sound engineer. Many creative people will combine a number of different jobs to make a living, perhaps including some teaching, doing sound engineering for a church or theater, and offering recording services for musicians. Since audio engineering skills will be in demand, there are many possible ways to combine these skills with other interests to make a well-paying career that will also include the satisfaction of working with the art of sound.

Admission Requirements for Music Production Online Programs

Associate Degree Requirements

Ready to apply for an associate degree in music production online? Then you need:

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Proficiency in music production software and hardware
• Submission of a portfolio showcasing previous music production work
• Minimum GPA requirement, typically ranging from 2.0 to 2.5
• Letter of recommendation from a music professional or instructor
• Personal statement outlining the applicant’s interest in music production and career goals
• Possible interview or audition process

Bachelor’s Degree Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Completion of specific high school coursework, such as music, audio technology, or related subjects, may be preferred
• Submission of official high school transcripts demonstrating satisfactory academic performance
• SAT or ACT scores may be required, although some programs may offer test-optional admission.
• Typically, two to three letters of recommendation from teachers, counselors, or music professionals who can attest to the applicant’s abilities and potential in music production.
• Submission of a portfolio showcasing the applicant’s music production skills and previous work, such as recordings, compositions, or projects. The portfolio may be submitted in various formats, including audio or video files, links to online platforms, or physical media.
• Access to a computer with sufficient processing power and audio production software/hardware

Master’s Degree Requirements

To get an online degree for music production at the master’s level, you need:

• A bachelor’s degree from accredited online music production schools
• An audio engineering degree online or in music technology is generally preferred.
• Submission of official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended. They must demonstrate a suitable academic record. Some programs may have a minimum GPA requirement, usually around 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
• A written statement outlining the applicant’s goals. For example, research interests and reasons for pursuing a master’s degree in music production. The statement should highlight the applicant’s background and experiences. Also how the program aligns with their career aspirations.
• As with a master’s degree, a portfolio showcasing the applicant’s previous work in music production. It may include recordings, compositions, research papers, or other relevant projects. The portfolio should demonstrate technical proficiency, creativity, and originality in the field.
• A detailed document such as a resume. Must highlight academic background, work experience, and internships. Also, research, publications, presentations, performances, and any other relevant achievements.
  Some programs may require GRE scores. This requirement can vary, however, depending on the institution and program. Certain programs may accept alternative exams, such as the GMAT or subject-specific tests.

Apply Today!

If you love music or are fascinated by sound, getting a music production degree online is a great way to get the education that can help you have a prosperous career in music that you can love. When you are passionate about a subject, you are likely to work hard at the skills required, and your musical aptitude be a window into your life’s calling. In this case, an online music production degree can be your next career move. Check out the great degree options now at GetEducated.com!