Audio Design and Production
- B.A. in Audio Arts - LAS & Core Requirements (2 pages)
- Degree Major Description, Requirements, and Sample 4-Year Plan (3 pages)
- B.A. Transfer and 2nd Bachelors Guidelines and Sample 2-Year Plans (2 pages)
The Audio Design and Production Program prepares students for careers in music recording, audio post-production, audio for multi-media communications, sound design, and sound art. It provides "core" coursework that covers the science of audio, basic and advanced recording, editing and processing, and studio recording and post-production techniques common to all audio "production" fields. Students then choose courses that focus on the specific techniques, technologies and aesthetics of the music industry and/or of sound as an independent art form, and become versed in a variety of formats and environments, from large-format recording studios to "desk-top" environments.
The specific goal of the Concentration is to provide a foundation understanding of audio theory (Introduction to Audio Theory and Basic Audio Systems), along with production fundamentals (Audio Production I and II). Our intermediate courses (Recording I, Recording II, and Live Sound Recording) apply core curriculum theory and practice in the context of studio and live/location recording/production, using both complex and simple microphone use/techniques as well as "live-to-two-track" and multi-track recording. A selection of "Master Class" courses (two are required) comprise capstone experiences in the areas of studio recording, live/location recording, sound art, synthesis/signal processing, and internships. In addition, students are required to take at least three courses in the department, outside of the Audio Design & Production Concentration requirements.
It is important that students recognize the ever-changing and increasingly diverse nature of our technologically sensitive industries. To this end we explore new media forms, in which audio production is an integral part. These may include web design and authoring, real-time web media, CD ROM publishing, sound design for theater, broadcast, and multi-media, and Sound Art as a stand-alone, independent means of artistic expression.
As part of a liberal arts program, students also develop communication skills in, and an aesthetic understanding of the different industries they may serve, which prepare them to interact more effectively with peers and clients.
Benjamin Kanters, MM
312-369-8807
Director, Audio Design and Production
