COMPARE AUDIO RECORDING SCHOOLS

Not all audio RECORDING schools are created equal. Here's what to look for — and what to avoid — when you're choosing where to train.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A GREAT AUDIO RECORDING SCHOOL

If you're serious about building a career in sound, these are the non-negotiables:

Accreditation
Make sure the program is recognized and respected in the industry

Hands-On Gear Access
Real studios, consoles, mics, and software (not just theory)

Instructor Experience
Teachers who actually work in the field, not just teach from a book

Career Support
Resume help, interview prep, internship and job placement assistance

Live Session Opportunities
Real projects in real environments

These factors separate real programs from the rest.

ON-CAMPUS VS. ONLINE TRAINING

Let’s be real — in audio you learn by doing. And that’s something online programs can’t fully deliver.

On-Campus Training

  • Learn in real studios with real gear
  • Get direct feedback from instructors and mentors
  • Work on actual sessions — not just assignments
  • Collaborate with classmates in live environments
  • Prepare for real jobs by simulating real-world situations

It’s immersive, it’s hands-on, and it’s how most professionals learn the ropes.

Online Training

  • No access to pro studios or real equipment
  • No hands-on experience
  • No in-person feedback or mentorship
  • No collaboration with classmates in real environments
  • No chance to work in live recording sessions, with live musicians

If you want a real career in audio, you need real experience.
Get in the room. Touch the gear. Make mistakes. Fix them. That’s how pros are made — and why on-campus programs matter.

HOW LONG It Takes

The best AUDIO RECORDING SCHOOL programs move fast but stay focused — usually around 12 months. That’s enough time to:

Learn the gear

build the skills

get comfortable

6-month crash courses often skip key skills. 4-year degrees take too long and cost too much — especially when most of that time isn’t even spent in a studio.

A focused 1-year program hits the sweet spot: fast, immersive, and career-ready.

MYTHS & MUST-KNOWS ABOUT AUDIO CAREERS

There’s a lot of bad info out there about what it takes to work in sound. Let’s clear a few things up:

“You need a 4-year degree.”

Nope. Most employers care about your skills, not a diploma.

“Audio isn’t a real career.”

Totally false. Sound is everywhere — music, movies, games, podcasts, events, and more.

“You can learn everything on YouTube.”

YouTube is great for quick tips. But real skills come from hands-on studio time, mentorship, and live sessions you can’t replicate online.

“It’s too competitive to break into.”

It’s competitive — like any creative field. But people with serious training and drive stand out.

“You need to live in LA or New York.”

Nope. Plenty of jobs are remote, mobile, or in cities across the country. The right school can connect you.

“Audio school is too expensive.”

Most hands-on programs cost $25K–$30K, a fraction of a 4-year college (which can top $80K). And you're job-ready in about a year.

“I don’t have experience — can I still do this?”

Absolutely. Most programs are built for beginners. If you’ve got passion and focus, you can learn the rest.

“What kind of salary can I expect?”

Entry-level: $32K–$45K. Experienced pros: $60K–$105K+ — depending on your path and location.*

*According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for broadcast, sound, and video technicians was $54,160 in May 2023. The lowest 10% earned less than $32,760, and the highest 10% earned more than $105,990.

STILL NOT SURE WHERE TO START?

Answer a few questions and find a program that fits your goals.

Find Your Audio Recording School