Overview

The Sound Design postgraduate programme at Academy of Art University offers an immersive environment for students to master the art of audio creation for film, television, and digital media. This curriculum is designed to bridge the gap between creative vision and technical execution, ensuring that graduates are prepared for the demands of the modern entertainment industry. By focusing on hands-on experience, the university enables students to develop a professional-standard portfolio that showcases their unique sonic voice.

Why Sound Design at Academy of Art University?

Academy of Art University provides a distinctive educational experience where classes are taught by working professionals who bring real-world industry insights directly into the classroom. Students benefit from collaborations with industry clients, allowing them to work on practical projects that mirror professional environments. The university’s commitment to using state-of-the-art technology ensures that learners are proficient with the tools currently used in top-tier production houses.

The institution is known for its supportive community and "no barriers" approach to education, welcoming creative individuals from diverse backgrounds. Facilities include specialised labs and studios equipped with high-end hardware and software, providing the necessary resources to experiment and innovate in audio production. This practical focus helps students transition smoothly from academic study to successful careers in the creative arts.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 33426 per year
National fee: USD 26586 per year
Local fee: USD 26586 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum focuses on the technical and artistic aspects of audio production for various visual formats. Modules may include:

Sound Design
Music Production
Music Scoring & Composition
Visual Development
Technical Filmmaking
Motion Pictures & Television
Artificial Intelligence Design

Careers with Sound Design

Graduates from this programme are equipped to pursue various roles within the entertainment and media sectors. The focus on portfolio-ready work prepares students for positions in film studios, game development companies, and advertising agencies. Alumni from the university have successfully secured roles at major organisations, contributing to award-winning projects and shaping contemporary culture through sound.

Potential career paths include sound editor, foley artist, audio engineer, and music supervisor. By working with industry-standard equipment and receiving mentorship from active professionals, students gain the competitive edge required to lead teams and manage complex audio projects on a global stage. The university's strong links to the creative industry in San Francisco and beyond provide a robust foundation for professional networking and career advancement.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Sound Design for Games

Music and Sound Design Professional Practices

Music Editing for Visual Media

Experimental Sound Design and Synthesis

Motion Picture Post Production
Soundtrack Industry

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 24 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-09-02 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-08-24 00:00:00
Starting 2027-01-28 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-19 00:00:00

Language

English

Credits

36 SCH

Delivered

On Campus, Online

Campus Location

San Francisco, United States

Disciplines

Sound Engineering View 34 other Masters in Sound Engineering in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

We are not aware of any English requirements for this programme.

Other requirements

General requirements

Application form or online application
$50 application fee
Official transcripts from your undergraduate college or university showing completion of an undergraduate degree.
Resume
Portfolio

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

33426 USD / year

≈ 33426 USD / year
Out-of-State

26586 USD / year

≈ 26586 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

26586 USD / year

≈ 26586 USD / year

Additional Details

Graduate Tuition (Domestic Students): $1,407/unit – 3 units per class

Graduate Tuition (International Students): $1,615/unit – 3 units per class

Living costs

San Francisco

United States

2206 - 4119 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Sound Design.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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