Working on state-of-the-art equipment is by far one of the major reasons for attending an audio engineering school. This kind of experience is priceless in a music industry that keeps evolving. Having the proper equipment is now more important than ever.

The best benefit of having hands-on experience with this equipment is that you learn the industry standard right from the beginning. That wipes out your feeling of not being able to operate as a professional Producer.

Now there are a few drawbacks in this arena.

The most common problem is that the quality and standards of this equipment can vary drastically between schools. Usually, you can tell the difference between old and new equipment with the eyeball test. So make sure and visit any school you intend to enroll in, prior to signing up.

The other issue is quantity of equipment and studio space. Basically the less there is, the less you will be able to use it. Generally, if the classes are crowded you may only get a few hours here and there to work. So before enrolling be sure to find out how much studio time is typical per student.

Rest assured that you will be getting a well-rounded education in audio techniques, which is very useful. Now, it might not win any awards for being very interesting but it will give you the foundation you need to be successful in the music business.

Of course, there are other sources such as YouTube, Udemy, and others but they do not offer the benefits of studio engagement. They are also often incomplete and jump around. A structured learning experience is the best way to learn audio engineering and music production.

You will also be exposed to a broad array of audio production aspects, which will help you decide where you fit in as an Audio Engineer. You may even discover an interest you never knew you had. That’s why it’s a good idea to seek out a program packed with everything from production, engineering, music business and even online marketing for your music business.

The intent of the school experience is also to help you find and recognize your passion in the music business. The theory part pays an intricate role in helping you accomplish this. Some subjects will be more or less technical but all carry importance in making you a successful industry pro. So take in all that they have to offer.

Most people’s heaviest factor when considering whether to attend audio engineering school or not is the cost. The larger institutions cost a lot because their overhead is so high. They have big buildings, equipment to maintain, Teachers’ salaries to pay, big marketing budgets to justify, and they still have to worry about making a profit after all of that.

Tuition fees vary a lot, depending on where you are in the world and the kind of college it is. Top audio engineering schools can easily set you back tens of thousands of dollars. And although there are far more affordable options, in general, you do get what you pay for.

Your cost of living is also something to take into consideration during your decision-making process. Food and lodging costs can pile up, especially if you plan on moving to a new location to attend. Student loans are available and can be a good option with a good understanding of what you are signing up for. It is best to do your research before taking out large sum loans.

Let’s be real: audio engineering education has evolved, and 2025’s aspiring engineers face a whole new landscape. With legends-in-the-making producing hit records from their bedroom studios, you might wonder if formal schooling is still necessary.

Grammy-winning Producer Finneas famously recorded Billie Eilish’s debut album in his bedroom and still swept the Grammys. That sparked a debate about whether you need a “fancy” studio or any formal training at all. The truth is, you don’t need a degree to become an Audio Engineer — what you need are skills, grit, and connections. But audio engineering programs are evolving fast to make sure they’re worth your time and money.

For many people, the question is no longer “Do I have to go to audio school?” but rather “What’s the best way for me to learn audio engineering?” There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Some folks thrive by diving straight into the field — interning at studios, collaborating online, binge-watching YouTube tutorials, and grinding on projects in their home setup. Others prefer the structure of a school, where they can get step-by-step training, mentorship from industry pros, and a ready-made network of peers who share their passion.

Producer Jim-E Stack has pointed out that the DIY route can absolutely work:

This kind of comment from a successful producer shows how far self-teaching (plus affordable gear and software) have leveled the playing field. But it doesn’t mean audio engineering schools are obsolete. Far from it. In fact, many schools have stepped up their game. They’ve refreshed their curricula to keep up with the times, ensuring students learn the latest tools and techniques.

It’s now common to find classes on immersive audio (like learning to mix in Dolby Atmos for 3D sound) and even how to use AI-driven software for tasks like mastering and noise reduction. Schools know they need to teach these cutting-edge skills so you graduate ready to tackle the modern music industry.

Another big trend is the rise of online and hybrid learning in audio education. If moving to a campus across the country isn’t an option, no worries. Plenty of reputable programs (including some top universities) now offer online courses or even full audio engineering degrees that you can earn from home. This makes learning more accessible (and often more affordable). You can join live virtual classes or follow recorded lessons at your own pace — all you really need is a decent computer, an internet connection, and the drive to practice.

And here’s something awesome: audio engineering is becoming more inclusive. The industry (and the schools feeding into it) is actively encouraging more diverse voices to join the field. There are mentorship programs and scholarships aimed at bringing more women and people of color into sound engineering. The result is a growing community of creators from all backgrounds (and the industry needs all the fresh perspectives it can get!).

Most newer audio programs also emphasize real-world experience. Many offer built-in internships or capstone projects that get you working in actual studios before you even graduate. That way, you don’t just leave with a piece of paper — you also have tangible, resume-worthy experience and maybe even a few industry contacts.

So, if you decide to pursue the school route, what are your options? There are hundreds of programs out there. To give you an idea, here are a few notable audio engineering schools in the United States that aspiring engineers often rave about:

• Berklee College of Music (Boston) – world-renowned for its Music Production & Engineering program and state-of-the-art studios.
  
• Full Sail University (Orlando) – known for its accelerated Recording Arts program with tons of hands-on studio time.
  
• USC Thornton School of Music (Los Angeles) – known for blending top-notch audio engineering instruction with valuable music industry connections.
  
• SAE Institute (multiple U.S. cities) – known for shorter, intensive programs in sound engineering and music production.
  
• Conservatory of Recording Arts & Sciences (CRAS) (Arizona) – known for its one-year intensive program with a built-in studio internship to jumpstart your career.

Like at any school, your audio engineering course time can feel like it is a bit longer in the beginning until you hit your stride. The intent of this length of study is that the school gives you a well-rounded and tailored education. The mindset of rushing through is tough to overcome but is essential to fix in this setting.

Most schools operate by having each class give one main lecture per week and then you use the other part of your time doing work pertaining to them and your projects. In the beginning, however, you must be prepared to learn some theory before diving in on any projects.

The reasoning behind the pace is well-planned. There needs to be comfort on both sides before handling the equipment and tools you will be using. This will pay dividends in your work as well.

School settings offer a unique way to enter the field of music with some real experience and learning time. If well used, this academic experience can be the golden ticket to the career you always wanted. A lot of times, schooling will teach you more than getting coffee for a big wig music pro would.

It’s really important to get an idea who the instructors and staff are in the school you will be attending. The whole point to a trade or career school is to learn from actual working pros or experts. So don’t be afraid to ask about this.

One of the other most important aspects of the school should be access to high-quality gear and equipment. So when you’re looking around make sure and observe the quality and quantity of this stuff. Both are very important.

The other part of the quantity question is how much time you get to actually use this equipment. You should be able to get a really good idea of this through the program or course information and by asking the staff. Another factor worth knowing is when you would be able to use certain items.

In regards to curriculum, consider the reason you are attending school. It’s pretty simple; you would like to produce music in some way, shape, or form. Thus, it goes without saying, that when looking at schools, you should make sure the curriculum is largely focused on actually producing.

Yes, it is about exposure, too, but you also want to make sure your path will lead you to producing the product you intend to sell to people.

Outdated colleges are probably not worth it.

The reality is that for the trade and technical school industry, the best gear and Teachers tend to be at the best schools. The best schools, a lot of times, charge the most. That’s just the way it is.

Fortunately, there are a few exceptions to this rule — you just have to do your research though. Be wary of scams and schools that aren’t what they say they are. Word of mouth and reputation can go a long way here. You don’t want to find out the hard way that you made the wrong choice.

Overall, the benefits of going far outweigh the cost.

Just be cautious when it comes to student loans and such. And make sure it’s really what you want to do.

Consider the opportunity cost. It is likely that attending school will give you access to places, gear, and people that you wouldn’t normally have.