Top Ten Audio Schools in the U.S.

A Complete Guide For Aspiring Music Professionals

Executive Summary  

Selecting the right audio school is a key decision for those aiming for a career in music production, audio engineering, electronic music creation, live DJing, venue sound, hip hop, and beat-making. This guide offers an overview of the top audio schools in the U.S., including Full Sail University, The Recording Connection, Los Angeles Recording School, Point Blank Music School, Berklee College of Music, CRAS (Conservatory of Recording Arts and Sciences), Icon Collective, Musicians Institute, SAE Institute, and Garnish Music Production. You'll find detailed insights into their programs, locations, tuition fees, course lengths, job placement support, and notable alumni. The guide also provides a breakdown of each school’s pros and cons, summarizes their industry reputations, and answers common questions to help you make an informed choice about your education and career.

Table of Contents 

1. Introduction 
2. Comparison Chart of Top Audio Schools 
3. Detailed School Profiles 
• The Recording Connection
• Full Sail University
• Los Angeles Recording School
• Point Blank Music School
• Berklee College of Music
• Conservatory of Recording Arts and Sciences (CRAS)
• Icon Collective
• Musicians Institute
• SAE Institute
• Garnish Music Production
4. Industry Reputation and Notable Comments 
5. Frequently Asked Questions 
6. Conclusion 

Introduction 

 

The music industry is constantly evolving and demands professionals skilled in the latest technologies and creative trends. Whether your interest is in audio engineering, music production, live DJing, or beat-making, choosing the right educational institution is crucial to achieving your career goals. This guide provides an in-depth look at some of the top audio schools in the United States, giving you the information you need to make a well-informed decision.

Comparison Chart of Top Audio Schools 

Here's a quick comparison of the schools covered in this guide: 

School	Programs Offered	Locations	Course Length	Tuition (Approx.)	Job Placement Assistance
The Recording Connection	Audio Engineering, Music Production, Live DJing, Electronic Music, Hip Hop & Beat Making	Nationwide (Mentor-Apprentice)	6-9 months	$12,750 - $14,750	Yes
Full Sail University	Audio Production, Recording Arts	Winter Park, FL	~20 months	$85,000+	Yes
Los Angeles Recording School	Audio Production, Music Production	Los Angeles, CA	18 months	$36,000+	Yes
Point Blank Music School	Music Production & Sound Engineering, DJing	Los Angeles, Online	3 months - 2 years	$6,000 - $18,000	Yes
Berklee College of Music	Music Production & Engineering	Boston, MA; NYC; Online	4 years	$45,000/year	Yes
CRAS	Audio Engineering, Music Production	Tempe & Gilbert, AZ	11 months	$20,000+	Yes
Icon Collective	Music Production, Vocal Artist, Music Business	Los Angeles, Online	12 months	$25,000+	Yes
Musicians Institute	Audio Engineering, Music Production, DJ Performance	Hollywood, CA	1 quarter - 4 years	$16,000 - $90,000	Yes
SAE Institute	Audio Technology Diploma, Audio Bachelor's	Multiple U.S. cities	9 - 32 months	$22,000 - $50,000	Yes
Garnish Music Production	Music Production Courses	Los Angeles, NYC, Online	Short courses	$3,000 - $8,000	Limited

Note: Tuition costs are approximate and may vary depending on the program. Always check the school's official website for the most up-to-date information.

 

Detailed School Profiles 

 

The Recording Connection 

• Programs Offered: Audio Engineering, Music Production, Live DJing, Electronic Music, Hip Hop & Beat Making
• Locations: Nationwide, using a mentor-apprentice approach in professional recording studios
• Course Length: 6-9 months
• Tuition: $12,750 - $14,750, depending on the program
• Job Placement Assistance: Yes, with many students getting hired by their mentor studios. The program includes networking opportunities, resume building, and interview coaching.
• Notable Alumni: Ramy Morales 5x Platinum.  Morning Estrada Latin Grammy Award

Pros:

• Hands-on learning through one-on-one mentorship in real recording studios
• Available in various cities across the U.S.
• More affordable than traditional institutions
• Immediate exposure to the professional environment
• Access to Music Industry Connections

Cons:

• Lacks a traditional campus and student community
• Success depends heavily on the student's self-motivation
• Quality of mentorship may vary based on the mentor's teaching abilities

Best For: Self-motivated individuals seeking real-world experience and personalized instruction without a traditional classroom setting.

 

 

Full Sail University  

• Programs Offered: Bachelor's degrees in Audio Production, Recording Arts
• Location: Winter Park, Florida
• Course Length: About 20 months (accelerated programs)
• Tuition: Around $85,000 for a full bachelor's degree
• Job Placement Assistance: Yes, with a dedicated career development department offering resume help, interview preparation, and networking events
• Notable Alumni: Gary Rizzo (Oscar-winning sound mixer), Darren Lynn Bousman (Film director)

Pros:

• Comprehensive curriculum that covers a wide range of topics, from recording techniques to the music business
• State-of-the-art facilities with industry-standard studios and equipment
• Accelerated programs let students graduate faster than the usual four-year timeline
• Strong career services offering extensive job placement assistance and internships

Cons:

• Higher tuition costs compared to other schools
• Large class sizes, which might mean less personalized attention
• An intense schedule due to the accelerated pace, which might be overwhelming for some

Best For: Students looking for a fast-paced, immersive education with access to advanced facilities and who are ready for a significant financial investment.

 

 

Los Angeles Recording School 

• Programs Offered: Associate of Science Degrees in Audio Production, Music Production
• Location: Los Angeles, California
• Course Length: 18 months for associate degrees
• Tuition: Around $36,000 for the entire program
• Job Placement Assistance: Yes, with career development services providing job leads, networking events, and alumni mentorship
• Notable Alumni: Adam Harrington (sound designer for video games), Kyle Pettit (audio engineer)

Pros:

• Located in the heart of Hollywood, providing ample industry exposure
• Access to modern facilities and professional studios
• Focused curriculum tailored to audio production and music production
• Industry connections with regular guest lectures and workshops from professionals

Cons:

• Living in Los Angeles can be expensive, adding to overall costs
• High competition for internships and jobs due to the city's popularity
• Mainly offers associate degrees, with fewer options for bachelor's programs

Best For: Students looking to immerse themselves in the entertainment industry and gain direct industry connections in a vibrant urban environment.

 

Point Blank Music School 

• Programs Offered: Music Production & Sound Engineering, DJing, Electronic Music Production
• Locations: Los Angeles, Online
• Course Length: Varies from short courses (3 months) to longer diploma programs (up to 2 years)
• Tuition: $6,000 - $18,000, depending on course length and type
• Job Placement Assistance: Yes, including career guidance, job boards, and networking events with industry professionals
• Notable Alumni: Goldie, Leona Lewis, Nicole Moudaber

Pros:

• Specializes in electronic music, making it ideal for those focused on electronic genres and DJing
• Offers flexible learning options, both in-person and online
• Instructors are current industry professionals
• Access to state-of-the-art software and hardware used in the music industry

Cons:

• Limited to certificates and diplomas, with no traditional bachelor's degrees
• Shorter programs may not offer as much depth as longer courses
• Focused mainly on electronic music, which might not suit those interested in other genres

Best For: Aspiring electronic music producers and DJs who want specialized, flexible courses without committing to a full-degree program.

 

Berklee College of Music 

• Programs Offered: Bachelor's degrees in Music Production and Engineering, Electronic Production and Design
• Locations: Boston, Massachusetts; New York City; Online
• Course Length: 4-year programs
• Tuition: Approximately $45,000 per year (excluding housing and additional fees)
• Job Placement Assistance: Yes, with a strong career center offering internships, job fairs, and an extensive alumni network
• Notable Alumni: Quincy Jones, John Mayer, St. Vincent

Pros:

• Prestigious reputation, recognized worldwide
• Comprehensive education combining technical skills with a foundation in music theory and performance
• Extensive alumni network and industry connections
• Diverse curriculum with a wide range of electives and cross-disciplinary studies

Cons:

• High tuition costs and significant financial investment required
• Competitive admissions process, including auditions
• Large class sizes may limit individual attention

Conservatory of Recording Arts and Sciences (CRAS)  

• Programs Offered: Master Recording Program II (Audio Engineering, Music Production)
• Locations: Tempe and Gilbert, Arizona
• Course Length: 11 months
• Tuition: Approximately $20,000 for the full program
• Job Placement Assistance: Yes, including mandatory internships, career counseling, and job placement support
• Notable Alumni: Graduates have worked with artists like Beyoncé, Justin Timberlake, and on projects like Game of Thrones

Pros:

• Intensive, fast-paced program designed to get you industry-ready quickly
• Offers significant hands-on training with real-world studio equipment
• Strong industry connections that lead to a high success rate in placing students into internships
• Smaller class sizes that allow for more personalized instruction and mentorship

Cons:

• The demanding workload may be challenging for some students
• Limited campus life and fewer extracurricular activities due to its smaller size
• Location in Arizona may offer fewer networking opportunities compared to cities like LA or New York

Best For: Individuals looking for a fast-track, hands-on program that provides a clear path to internships and employment in the industry.

 

Icon Collective  

• Programs Offered: Music Production, Vocal Artist, Music Business
• Locations: Los Angeles, Online
• Course Length: 12-month programs
• Tuition: Around $25,000 for the full program
• Job Placement Assistance: Yes, including career coaching, industry showcases, and mentorship programs
• Notable Alumni: Jauz, NGHTMRE, Slander

Pros:

• Focuses on artist development, emphasizing both creativity and technical skills
• Offers one-on-one mentorship with industry professionals
• Builds a strong community network among students and alumni
• Modern curriculum that keeps up with trends in the electronic music scene

Cons:

• Specializes mainly in electronic music genres
• Tuition is high for a one-year program
• Selective admissions process requiring a demonstration of artistic potential

Best For: Aspiring artists and producers in the electronic music scene who value personal development and mentorship over traditional academic structures.

 

Musicians Institute 

·         Programs Offered: Certificates, Associate's, and Bachelor's degrees in Audio Engineering, Music Production, DJ Performance

• Location: Hollywood, California
• Course Length: Ranges from 1 quarter (about 3 months) to 4 years
• Tuition: $16,000 for short programs, up to $90,000 for bachelor's degrees
• Job Placement Assistance: Yes, with dedicated career services, job listings, and networking events
• Notable Alumni: Jeff Buckley, Paul Gilbert, Antonio Geary

Pros:

• Offers a diverse range of programs to suit different career paths
• Located in Hollywood, providing plenty of networking opportunities
• Access to professional facilities, including state-of-the-art studios and performance venues
• Regular showcases and concerts for students

Cons:

• High living costs in Hollywood can add to overall expenses
• Some programs may have large class sizes, affecting individual attention
• Competitive environment due to the high density of talent in the area

Best For: Students looking for a variety of program options in an industry-focused environment, with plenty of opportunities for performance and collaboration.

 

SAE Institute 

• Programs Offered: Audio Technology Diploma, Audio Bachelor's Degree
• Locations: Multiple U.S. cities, including New York, Atlanta, Miami, and Chicago
• Course Length: 9 months for diploma programs; up to 32 months for bachelor's degrees
• Tuition: $22,000 - $50,000, depending on program and location
• Job Placement Assistance: Yes, with career services, internships, and an active alumni network
• Notable Alumni: Calvin Harris (attended SAE Glasgow), Joel Little (producer for Lorde)

Pros:

• Globally recognized, with campuses around the world
• Emphasizes hands-on training with professional equipment
• Offers accelerated options, allowing students to complete programs faster
• Multiple locations in various cultural and musical hubs

Cons:

• Reputation and resources can vary between campuses
• Limited specialized programs compared to other schools
• Larger class sizes at some campuses, which might affect personalized attention

Best For: Students looking for practical training with an international perspective and flexible study options across multiple campuses.

 

Garnish Music Production 

• Programs Offered: Music Production courses focusing on various DAWs (Ableton Live, Logic Pro X, etc.)
• Locations: Los Angeles, New York City, Online
• Course Length: Short courses ranging from a few weeks to several months
• Tuition: $3,000 - $8,000, depending on the course
• Job Placement Assistance: Limited; primarily focuses on skill development rather than career services
• Notable Alumni: Graduates have gone on to work with artists like Skrillex and Diplo

Pros:

• Flexible scheduling, ideal for those unable to commit to long-term programs
• Courses taught by active industry professionals
• Offers specialized training focused on mastering specific software and production skills
• More affordable compared to full-time degree programs

Cons:

• Does not offer formal degree programs
• Limited career services and job placement support
• Best suited for skill enhancement rather than a comprehensive education

Best For: Individuals looking to enhance specific music production skills without the time and financial commitment of a full-time program.

 

Industry Reputation and Notable Comments 

 

Understanding the industry reputation of these schools can help you make an informed decision. Here’s a summary of each school's standing in the audio and music production industry, along with some notable pros and cons:

The Recording Connection 

• Industry Reputation: Known for its unique mentor-apprentice model that places students inside real recording studios. Highly regarded for providing practical experience and networking opportunities.
• Notable Comments:
• Pros: On-the-job training and personalized mentorship often lead to job offers upon completion.
• Cons: The lack of a traditional campus experience may not appeal to students looking for a typical college atmosphere.

 

Full Sail University 

• Industry Reputation: Widely recognized for its comprehensive audio and entertainment programs. Employers often view graduates as well-prepared due to the school’s emphasis on real-world experience and high-end facilities.
• Notable Comments:
• Pros: Praised by industry professionals for its cutting-edge technology and hands-on learning approach. Accelerated programs allow students to enter the workforce sooner.
• Cons: High tuition costs and the fast-paced nature of the curriculum may not suit everyone.

Los Angeles Recording School 

• Industry Reputation: Benefits from being located in the entertainment capital. Respected for modern facilities and a curriculum that aligns with current industry standards.
• Notable Comments:
• Pros: Graduates are valued for their up-to-date technical skills and familiarity with industry workflows.
• Cons: Competition in Los Angeles is intense, requiring additional networking and effort.

Point Blank Music School 

• Industry Reputation: Esteemed for its focus on electronic music production and DJing. Instructors are active industry professionals, adding credibility to the curriculum.
• Notable Comments:
• Pros: Students appreciate the focus on current trends and technologies in electronic music.
• Cons: Those looking for a broader education might find the specialized courses somewhat limiting.

Berklee College of Music 

• Industry Reputation: Globally known as one of the most prestigious music institutions. Produces highly skilled musicians and industry leaders.
• Notable Comments:
• Pros: Extensive alumni network and worldwide reputation open many doors in the industry.
• Cons: High costs and a competitive admissions process are barriers for some students.

CRAS (Conservatory of Recording Arts and Sciences) 

• Industry Reputation: Respected for its intense, hands-on programs that quickly prepare students for the professional world.
• Notable Comments:
• Pros: Employers note that CRAS graduates are job-ready and require minimal on-the-job training.
• Cons: The fast-paced program can be overwhelming for some students.

Icon Collective 

• Industry Reputation: Known for nurturing creativity and personal artistry, especially in electronic music.
• Notable Comments:
• Pros: Graduates praise the personal growth and artistic development they experience.
• Cons: The niche focus may not be ideal for those interested in other genres.

Musicians Institute 

• Industry Reputation: Well-regarded for its performance-based programs and strong industry ties.
• Notable Comments:
• Pros: Located in Hollywood, providing ample networking opportunities.
• Cons: Large class sizes can impact individual attention, and Hollywood’s cost of living is high.

SAE Institute 

• Industry Reputation: Highly respected for its global network and practical training approach.
• Notable Comments:
• Pros: The international presence provides students with a broader perspective on the industry.
• Cons: Quality and reputation may vary between different campuses.

Garnish Music Production 

• Industry Reputation: Recognized for its practical, focused courses taught by active professionals.
• Notable Comments:
• Pros: Ideal for enhancing specific production skills.
• Cons: Lack of accredited degrees and limited career services may be drawbacks for some.

 

Frequently Asked Questions 

 

1. What should I look for in an audio engineering school?
• Consider factors like accreditation, curriculum relevance, faculty expertise, facilities, equipment, location, class sizes, tuition, financial aid options, and job placement services. Align the school’s programs with your career goals.
2. Do these schools offer financial aid?
• Most of these institutions offer financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, loans, and payment plans. It's best to check each school's financial aid office or website for specific eligibility details.
3. Is a degree necessary to succeed in the audio industry?
• While not always mandatory, formal education can improve your technical skills, provide networking opportunities, and give you a competitive edge in the job market. Some positions may prefer or require a degree or certification.
4. How important is location when selecting a school?
• Location can significantly affect your educational experience. Schools in major music hubs like Los Angeles, New York, or Nashville may offer more direct exposure to industry professionals, internships, and job opportunities.
5. What career opportunities are available after graduation?
• Graduates can pursue careers as audio engineers, music producers, sound designers, live sound technicians, DJs, and more. Opportunities also exist in film, television, gaming, and multimedia production.
6. Can I study online, and is it as effective as in-person learning?
• Many schools offer online programs, which can be effective if you're self-motivated and disciplined. However, online learning may lack hands-on experience with physical equipment. Some schools provide hybrid models combining online coursework with in-person practice.
7. Do these schools provide job placement assistance?
• Most schools offer career services, including job placement assistance, internships, resume workshops, and networking events. The effectiveness of these services can vary, so inquire directly with each school.
8. How do these schools assist with job placement?
• The Recording Connection: Many students get hired by their mentor studios, with an emphasis on real-world connections.
• Full Sail University: Offers a career development department for resume assistance, interview prep, job fairs, and networking.
• Los Angeles Recording School: Provides career services, job leads, alumni mentorship, and networking events.
• Point Blank Music School: Offers career guidance, job boards, and networking events.
• Berklee College of Music: Has a career center offering internships, job fairs, and access to an extensive alumni network.
• CRAS: Includes mandatory internships and offers career counseling and job support.
• Icon Collective: Provides career coaching, industry showcases, and mentorship programs.
• Musicians Institute: Offers dedicated career services, job listings, and organizes networking events.
• SAE Institute: Provides career services, internships, and leverages an active alumni network.
• Garnish Music Production: Offers limited job placement assistance, focusing mainly on skill development.
9. What kind of equipment and facilities should I expect?
• Top audio schools usually provide access to professional-grade studios, recording equipment, and software. Facilities may include:
• Recording Studios: Equipped with industry-standard consoles and soundproof rooms.
• Computer Labs: Loaded with the latest Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) and plugins.
• Live Sound Rooms: For hands-on experience in live event setups.
• Performance Spaces: For practice and student showcases.
• Specialized Equipment: Including analog gear, synthesizers, and MIDI controllers.
10. Are internships part of these programs?
• Yes, many schools incorporate internships or externships to provide real-world experience, which often leads to job offers. For example, CRAS requires an internship as part of its curriculum, while The Recording Connection's program is based entirely on an apprenticeship (which is not the same as an intern but in fact better) model.

Conclusion  

Investing in the right education is a crucial step toward building a successful career in the audio and music industry. Each of these top audio schools offers unique programs, facilities, and opportunities tailored to different interests and career goals. To choose the best fit for you:

• Research Thoroughly: Visit school websites, attend open houses, and talk to admissions counselors.
• Consider Financial Options: Explore scholarships, grants, and financial aid.
• Assess Career Services: Understand how each school supports students in entering the workforce.
• Reflect on Your Goals: Align your choice with your career objectives and learning style.