Program Description & Objectives
The Audio Production program is designed to respond to the rapidly changing, cross-media and multi-media nature of the entertainment industry. The upper division coursework in the bachelor’s degree builds upon the knowledge and skills taught at the associate degree–level and provides students with more advanced training in audio engineering, music production, postproduction, event production, and visual media — including foundational video editing and graphic and web design skills.
Working with industry-standard equipment and in professional studios, the program provides graduates with focused knowledge and understanding of recording engineering and the foundational music and production skills needed to qualify for entry-level industry positions, such as assistant engineers, sound designers, MIDI/digital audio workstation operators and programmers, assistant maintenance technicians, and a variety of other positions in the audio, music, and entertainment industries. In addition to technical proficiency and creative expression, the curriculum helps students develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills that contribute to lifelong learning and the foundation of a successful career in the entertainment media industry.
Program Requirements
The Bachelor of Science in Audio Production degree program is 120 credit hours and 36 months in length. Students must successfully complete all required coursework with a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.0.
Chronological Course Order by Month
MONTH 1
SBS 100 Media and Culture (3 Credits)
CAMPUS COURSE
Media and Culture examines the complex, mutually influential relationships between various forms of media and cultural assumptions/practices from both historical and modern perspectives. The course focuses on the cultural, political, and economic impact media has on our diverse communities and society at large. By providing a global survey of digital communications (news, information, social media, entertainment), the course will concentrate on the application of new forms of media in personal lives, organizational structures, business models, and the critical and practical aspects of both traditional and emerging technologies. The course also introduces students to the roots and contemporary applications of cultural studies — including media studies — and analyzes the bases of power and meaning in the conception, creation, distribution, and reception of media content.
MONTH 2
ENG 101 Foundations of Writing (3 Credits)
Foundations of Writing is designed to help students refine their writing processes. The course provides varied opportunities for writing and for strengthening language skills. Students will apply fundamental writing principles focused on conventional rules of English grammar, syntax, and organization. Students will develop and hone their writing skills through selected readings and exercises.
MONTH 3
MPR 100 Musical Listening and Identification (3 Credits)
This course surveys the evolution of modern music from its early origins through to the present. Students learn the characteristics of a wide spectrum of musical genres and explore the transformative effects these genres have had on music and culture. Using Apple’s Logic Pro X software, this course teaches an overview of essential song structure and digital audio workstation techniques.
MONTH 4
MPR 121 Music Theory I (3 Credits)
This course develops a solid basis in the language of music. Music Theory 1 equips the student with the fundamentals of note identification, major scale construction, rhythmic notation, and ear training.
MONTH 5
SBS 113 Behavioral Science (3 Credits)
Behavioral Science introduces students to the concepts of cognitive processes and the ways these can be applied to mastering their education. Concepts like Motivation, Personal Development, and Interactions will be explored, which can strengthen individual growth and improve academic performance. Application of the knowledge gained in this course will lead students to have a stronger desire for achieving mastery when learning new concepts and a greater appreciation for lifelong learning.
MONTH 6
APR 130 Sequencing and Synthesis (4 Credits)
This course gives students experience using the DAW environment for the creation of MIDI-based music productions. Song structure, rhythmic values, and common chord progressions are integrated with the use of sampling and virtual instruments to explore modern production applications.
MONTH 7
RCA 223 Signal Processing and Effects (3 Credits)
Students learn how to identify and operate common signal processors, including gain-based, time-based, modulation, and harmonic effects. Students will learn to prepare and organize multi-track recording sessions within the Logic Pro X platform and gain practical experience on enhancing audio quality.
MONTH 8
MAT 121 Quantitative Principles (3 Credits)
Quantitative Principles is designed to enable students to build skills and confidence in foundations of algebra, geometry, and real-world mathematical applications. These concepts will enhance students’ problem-solving skills in a wide variety of professional and academic settings. Students will begin with a review of basic concepts and build upon these ideas by completing work that uses these principles in practical situations.
MONTH 9
RCA 232 Pro Tools Essentials (3 Credits)
This course explores the Pro Tools digital audio workstation (DAW) environment through study of digital audio concepts and workflow practices. Students receive instruction and hands-on practical experience with computer-based recording systems dominant in professional recording studios.
MONTH 10
RCA 253 Advanced Pro Tools (3 Credits)
This course introduces the core concepts and techniques students need to operate the software and hardware of a professional Pro Tools system. Students learn to design and utilize sessions intended for commercial production and improve the results of the recording, editing, and mixing process.
MONTH 11
APR 240 Audio for Media (4 Credits)
This course introduces students to the creation and recording of audio elements for film, television, and video games. Topics include field and production recording, sound-effect design, Foley recording, dialogue recording and editing, automated dialogue replacement (ADR), music editing, and mixing to picture.
MONTH 12
RCA 236 Mixing Concepts and Techniques (4 Credits)
This course teaches industry-standard mixing and mastering techniques applicable to the digital audio workstation environment. Topics include mixing templates, signal processors, time-based effects, automation, and implementing mixing and mastering strategies. Students will learn the value of referencing commercial mixes to inform stylistic and analytic mixing decisions.
MONTH 13
APR 260 Audio System Technology (4 Credits)
In this course, students are introduced to component-level analog circuitry. Students explore the installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of both analog and computer-based digital audio workstation software and components. Students are challenged to solve a variety of real-world technical problems that often arise in the audio industry.
MONTH 14
APR 270 Analog Studio Recording (3 Credits)
This course provides the foundations of studio and console recording. Students will learn analog console signal flow, multi-track operation, microphone technology and application, and professional techniques for the recording of live and electronic sources.
MONTH 15
APR 271 Large Format Consoles (4 Credits)
This course introduces the theory and operation of large format audio consoles and digital audio control surfaces. Students will explore microphone theory and application using professional techniques for recording live and electronic sources.
MONTH 16
SPC 214 Creative Communication (3 Credits)
Creative Communication provides students with the skills to outline and articulate ideas in both formal and informal settings. Students will engage in communication planning exercises and develop techniques for delivering ideas effectively through various verbal and non-verbal methods for a variety of audiences. Throughout the course, students will explore the guidelines of successful communication through various media environments and enhance confidence in oral self-expression.
MONTH 17
RCA 286 Live Sound Production (3 Credits)
This course introduces students to the design and use of live sound reinforcement systems. The course explores the principles of live music production in large and small venues as well as corporate event production. Students receive training in system construction, acoustics, equalization, and live mixing.
MONTH 18
APR 251 Music Business Essentials (4 Credits)
Students explore the business mechanisms affecting the commercial use of music compositions. Topics include intellectual property rights, copyright registration, licensing, songwriter agreements, contracts, publishing companies, and performance rights organizations.
MONTH 19
HUM 251 Historical Archetypes and Mythology (3 Credits)
Historical Archetypes and Mythology is a comparative survey of a wide variety of cross-cultural myths, epics, and legends and the archetypal patterns that inform their universal themes. Students will examine how mythic storytelling transcends geographical, historical, and cultural boundaries and compare the connections between historical examples of mythic storytelling and their modern counterparts.
MONTH 20
APR 300 Visual Media Essentials (4 Credits)
This course introduces students to the visual media sector of the entertainment business, giving them the understanding and skills necessary in an industry that increasingly integrates multiple media types. Students learn foundational video editing, digital illustration, and image manipulation skills.
MONTH 21
APR 310 Advanced Audio for Media (4 Credits)
This course introduces the advanced skills required to produce and refine audio content for film, television, and other visual media. Students gain experience with the tools, techniques, and professional workflow in audio recording and editing for Dialogue, Foley, and ADR.
MONTH 22
APR 320 Advanced Postproduction (4 Credits)
Students will apply the knowledge from earlier media courses to build skills in the advanced final postproduction process. Subjects taught include sound effects design and integration, surround sound, and the re-recording mixing process.
MONTH 23
HUM 223 Cultural Studies (3 Credits)
Cultural Studies examines the role and importance of culture by exploring its roots, historical effects, social impact, and modern environment. Students are introduced to the factors that create and shape culture, such as media, technological advancements, influential people, and economic conditions. Students will develop critical thinking skills to understand the meaning, significance, and value of the different aspects of culture.
MONTH 24
APR 330 Advanced Sequencing and Synthesis (4 Credits)
This course delves into the intricacies of software-based sequencing and synthesis techniques to elevate a student’s sound design skills. The course covers advanced musical and rhythmic programming, enabling students to create complex and innovative soundscapes. Students will also explore the various applications of sound design in content creation, equipping them with the tools and knowledge to produce professional-quality audio for diverse media projects.
MONTH 25
APR 340 Interactive Audio (4 Credits)
Students will learn to perform key audio roles within the development process of commercial games and create original sound design for interactive media. The course introduces asset creation and management, explores fundamental adaptive audio strategies, and teaches students the sound implementation process for game engines.
MONTH 26
SBS 305 Leadership and Organizational Behavior (3 Credits)
Leadership and Organizational Behavior is an exploration of the characteristics that are essential for inspiring others to action. Students identify their personal strengths and weaknesses through self-assessment, expanding their awareness of these qualities to include their effect on other individuals and group behavior. The course provides strategies for decision-making and building effective teams, and encourages students to explore the difficulties, compromises, and rewards of the collaborative process. At the successful conclusion of Leadership and Organizational Behavior, students will be able to identify the major qualities of leadership, examine personal leadership strengths and weaknesses, and analyze factors that contribute to the success of organizations.
MONTH 27
APR 350 Advanced Mixing (3 Credits)
This course explores the creative aspects of mixing through examination of styles, strategies, and aesthetics as well as advanced signal processing. Emphasis is placed on competitive techniques to ensure mixes meet the standards of contemporary productions.
MONTH 28
APR 400 Advanced Studio Recording (4 Credits)
This course synthesizes advanced DAW knowledge and large format analog console operation to give students the skills needed for producing music in a traditional recording studio environment. Emphasis is placed on industry-standard session procedures and pacing to accommodate professional recording session workflow.
MONTH 29
APR 420 Mastering (3 Credits)
This course explores the technical art of mastering, the final step of audio production. Students learn to optimize loudness and balance tone as well as audio cleanup and restoration methods. The course includes instruction in album compilation and duplication preparation for multiple formats and delivery methods.
MONTH 30
HUM 310 Art of Visual Narrative (3 Credits)
Art of Visual Narrative serves as an introduction to the development of the visual narrative arts from a cultural, artistic, and commercial perspective. The course will explore the historical links between artwork of ancient cultures, illustrated novels in the era of the printing press, and the comic book industry from its inception in the late 1930s to its current state in multimedia corporate franchises. From an artistic perspective, the course will examine the creative processes behind the development of a sequential narrative, from conception to final product, as it applies to multiple genres in modern entertainment.
MONTH 31
APR 440 Show Production (3 Credits)
With a foundation in live sound reinforcement, this course expands to survey several key elements of producing successful events from the viewpoint of an audiovisual professional. Topics include audio systems deployment, advanced audio output routing, modern digital connectivity, wireless communications systems, and lighting and video integrations.
MONTH 32
EBS 441 Event Management (3 Credits)
In the Event Management course, students learn the fundamentals and skills needed to successfully manage a professional event. These include identifying the event goals and target audience, creating an event concept that reflects the company and product brand, and developing a project management plan that ensures that schedule and budget goals are achieved while safety and legal risks are minimized. Various project management tools for successful event planning and management are utilized.
MONTH 33
ENG 326 Professional Writing (3 Credits)
Professional Writing provides students with a practical set of communication tools for a diverse range of written applications. In this course, students will analyze the form, style, diction, grammar, and structure of a variety of nonfiction writing examples. Students will develop an array of writing skills designed to communicate ideas with clarity that effectively reach a target audience.
MONTH 34
APR 490 Creative Portfolio 1 (3 Credits)
Students will determine their portfolio focus and begin work on a complete production to showcase their abilities to the industry. Working against a deadline, students apply prior skills and knowledge to develop their artistic sensibilities and workflows while learning effective project management techniques. Through a critique and review process with faculty, students begin to develop high-quality content for use in a professional portfolio.
MONTH 35
APR 450 Advanced Business and Production Management (3 Credits)
Students will learn to develop a comprehensive business plan involving budgeting, branding, and marketing strategies. Students will utilize professional tools for accounting, production management, and client management. Additionally, students will discuss topics of intellectual property law, contracts and fundamental business structures, including sales and taxes.
MONTH 36
APR 491 Creative Portfolio 2 (3 Credits)
Students continue to develop a professional-quality portfolio. Prior skills and knowledge are refined through direct application in an authentic production experience. Faculty mentor students in the completion of high-quality content for use in a portfolio that is suitable for promoting themselves to the industry.