Audio engineering is an art that blends creativity with technical expertise, playing a crucial role in music production, film, television, and live performances.
As the industry evolves, so does the need for skilled audio engineers who are well-versed in the latest technologies and techniques.
Online audio engineering courses have emerged as a flexible and comprehensive way to gain this expertise.
In 2024, these courses offer various learning opportunities, from basic sound principles to advanced production techniques, catering to beginners and experienced professionals.
This article explores the best online audio engineering courses available in 2024, highlighting how they can help you fine-tune your skills and amplify your career in the world of sound.
Best Online Audio Engineering Courses
Audio engineering is vast and constantly advancing, requiring a continuous learning approach.
The best online audio engineering courses of 2024 are designed to meet these evolving needs, offering cutting-edge training in sound design, mixing, mastering, and more.
Below is a list of top courses that stand out for their quality content and practical application.
1. Mount Wachusett College
Audio engineering at MWCC offers students a chance to become masters of sound and music production.
With access to professional-grade audio studios and expert faculty, students gain hands-on experience in audio production, film studies, video production, music theory, and more.
Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in music, radio, theater, gaming, television, and cinema, including roles like audiovisual technicians, production engineers, location recording and mix engineers, and sound effects editors.
Success in this field requires attention to detail, focus, problem-solving skills, organization, patience, and reliability.
2. Douglas College
Douglas College offers an audio engineering program through Continuing Education.
This non-credentialed training program covers topics like Pro Tools, fundamentals of audio theory, audio editing, mixing techniques, MIDI, sound synthesis, and sampling.
It is designed for individuals with or without previous experience in audio engineering. The program is offered part-time during the spring/summer semester. The program fee is $550.00.
3. Shoreline Community College
Shoreline Community College offers an audio engineering production program, preparing students for audio engineering and music recording careers.
This 90-credit program covers music theory, digital and analog audio technology, and multimedia applications.
Graduates can pursue roles as audio engineers, recording engineers, and more.
You can start in the fall, winter, or spring and tuition varies based on residency and enrollment status, starting at $145.17 per credit for Washington residents.
4. Metropolitan Community College
Metropolitan Community College in Kansas offers a degree program in audio engineering.
This program is designed for students interested in pursuing careers in recording-related aspects of the music industry or transferring to a bachelor’s degree program in music composition or technology.
Admission to the program requires acceptance by both MCC and KCKCC, with the degree awarded by KCKCC upon completing all requirements.
5. Iowa Western Community College
Iowa Western Community College offers an audio engineering Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree program designed to prepare students for direct entry into the workforce upon completion of the two-year program.
While some individual courses may be transferable to four-year institutions, the primary focus is equipping students with comprehensive knowledge of music production.
This includes analog and digital audio, live music reinforcement, recording, critique, and mastering.
Students gain practical experience in state-of-the-art facilities and through internships with local music businesses.
6. Belmont University
Belmont University offers a Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science (BA/BS) program in audio engineering technology, allowing students to explore the art and science of audio engineering right on Music Row.
Graduates of this program have diverse career prospects, from touring with major artists to working in post-production, recording, and software development for audio manufacturers.
Students acquire essential skills in mathematics, engineering, communication, and teamwork, equipping them for various roles in the audio industry.
7. Lawrence Tech University
Lawrence Tech University (LTU) offers a Bachelor of Science in audio engineering technology, combining your passion for audio with engineering principles.
This program delves into electronics, acoustics, and musical sound principles.
You’ll gain expertise in electronics, music theory, and sound technology analysis while having the option to explore areas like radio, television, and management through electives.
The curriculum covers analog and digital audio systems, mixing and production, noise reduction techniques, and more.
8. Los Angeles Film School
The Los Angeles Film School offers an online bachelor’s degree in audio production, providing aspiring audio production specialists with specialized instruction in audio engineering and production.
This program prepares students for various roles in the interactive audio space, including live events, video games, and post-production sound for film and TV.
With accelerated classes, you can complete this 120-credit-hour program in just 36 months, gaining the skills to make your mark in audio production from virtually anywhere.
9. Indiana University – Bloomington
Indiana University – Bloomington offers a Bachelor of Science and an Associate of Science comprehensive program in audio engineering and Sound Production within the Jacobs School of Music.
This program blends art with technology and prepares students for diverse careers in the entertainment industry.
With a multidisciplinary approach, students gain hands-on experience in state-of-the-art studios, performance venues, and collaborative projects with various IU departments.
10. University of Alabama
The University of Alabama offers a unique Bachelor of Science in musical audio engineering (BSMAE) program.
This program combines technical expertise in audio equipment design and operation with musical training.
Graduates are prepared for careers in recording studio operations, live recording environments, and audio equipment design and maintenance.
This competitive program admits a maximum of 60 students annually through School of Music auditions and requires the completion of 126 credit hours.
11. California State University
California State University, Dominguez Hills (CSUDH) offers a Bachelor of Arts in audio engineering. This hands-on program prepares students for studio recording, live sound reinforcement, and sound design careers.
Students gain practical experience with software and hardware tools, working on various projects such as documentaries, instructional films, and nonprofit initiatives.
The program encourages collaborative teamwork, allowing students from different degree programs to collaborate on projects, enhancing their skills and professionalism for the industry.
12. Husson University
Husson University’s New England School of Communication (NESCom) offers an audio engineering program for those passionate about sound.
Whether it’s music production or creating immersive audio experiences for film, TV, and video games.
The program provides comprehensive training in sound physics, electricity, and music fundamentals and hands-on experience in recording, mixing, and editing sound.
Graduates are well-prepared for successful careers in the audio engineering field, equipped with the skills and expertise needed to excel.
Benefits of Learning Audio Engineering
Audio engineering is more than just a technical skill. It’s a pathway to various creative and professional opportunities.
Some key benefits include:
- Creative Expression: Unleash your creativity in music and sound design.
- Diverse Career Paths: Get introduced to opportunities in music, film, broadcasting, and live events.
- Technical Expertise: Gain proficiency in the latest audio technology.
- Networking: Connect with professionals and artists in the industry.
- Freelance Potential: Have the flexibility to work as an independent artist or consultant.
- Global Demand: Gain skills that are sought after worldwide.
- Innovation: Stay at the forefront of audio technology and trends.
- Personal Satisfaction: Experience the joy of bringing sound to life in various forms.
- Financial Rewards: Have the potential for lucrative careers in various industry sectors.
Amplifying Your Career with Audio Engineering
The top online audio engineering degree courses of 2024 offer an invaluable opportunity for those looking to dive into the world of sound.
Whether starting your journey or seeking to enhance your skills, these courses provide the knowledge and practical experience to succeed in this dynamic and creative field.
