Certificate in Recording Arts

Music producers, mixing engineers and broadcast and sound engineers have an expertise in recording technology. To become eligible for various roles in the recording technology, you need to earn at least a certificate in recording arts. A variety of programs are offered in recording arts that deal with the technical aspects of recording. In these programs, you learn how to operate, monitor, and adjust audio and video equipment. In addition, you may also receive instruction in recording speech, music, and other sounds on recording equipment. The career outlook for broadcast and sound engineering technicians looks good with 9% expected employment growth between 2012 and 2022 according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. The employment of audio and visual equipment technicians is also expected to increase by up to 14% during the same decade. A degree or certificate in recording arts can possibly help you start a career in the entertainment or music industry.

Recording Arts Programs

Both undergraduates and graduate programs are available for aspiring recording technicians. You can work towards the associate, bachelor’s or master’s degree offered at the traditional or online schools. The curriculum may include topics such as recording techniques, analog and digital audio, multi-track recording, and mixing and editing among others. Classes are also available in production techniques, electronics and audio repair. Students can also take music-related electives such as rock and roll history musical skills and music theory and literature. In addition, candidates may have to complete in a studio project, recording arts seminar and internships.

The associate degree may take 2 years to complete while the bachelor’s programs may require 4 years for completion. The master’s degrees can possibly be completed in 1-2 years. However, the exact duration of all these programs depends on the enrollment status of the students, and can be less or more accordingly.

Students who want to possibly get into the field of recording arts can also pursue certificate programs. These programs allow working professionals to improve their chances of employment. Both campus-based as well as online schools offer certificate programs in recording arts. Those who cannot make it to classes offered at traditional schools can work towards the online programs and study without making major changes to their existing routine.

If you are interested in working towards a degree or certificate in recording arts but you cannot attend regular classes, online programs are also available in this area of study. Taking recording arts classes online works with your schedule. It allows you to maintain the balance between your personal and professional life. You can play and work with music through the night or keep up with your daily routine. Those of you who are already working or the ones who have other commitments can pursue the distance learning programs and earn vital credentials to get college credits required for various positions in this field.

Students with degrees and certificates in recording arts can become mixing engineers, audio/visual equipment technicians, broadcast and sound engineering or music producers. The exact income depends on a number of factors including location, qualification and type of job. According to the BLS, the median annual income for broadcast and sound engineering technicians was $41,200 in 2012.