Overview

The Sound Design programme at Academy of Art University offers students a comprehensive education in the art and science of audio production for various visual platforms. This curriculum is designed to bridge the gap between creative passion and professional industry requirements through rigorous technical training. Students engage with modern technologies to master the complexities of sound engineering and storytelling.

Why Sound Design at Academy of Art University?

The university provides a unique environment where education is led by working professionals who bring real-world industry insights into the classroom. Students benefit from a collaborative atmosphere, working alongside peers from different creative disciplines to simulate professional production environments. The institution is known for its "no barriers" approach, focusing on talent development and the creation of career-ready portfolios.

Facilities at the university are equipped with professional-grade technology, ensuring that students gain experience with the tools used in the modern media landscape. The campus in San Francisco serves as a vibrant backdrop for creative inspiration, while the curriculum itself is infused with contemporary advancements, including the integration of generative AI in creative processes.

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 for visual media. Modules may include:

Sound Design
Music Production
Music Scoring & Composition
Technical Filmmaking
Generative AI for Design
Visual Media Production
Professional Portfolio Development

Careers with Sound Design

Graduates from this programme are prepared for diverse roles within the global entertainment and media industries. The university has a strong track record of alumni securing positions at major organisations, where they apply their skills in sound engineering and audio post-production. Potential career paths include:

Sound Designer for Film and Television
Audio Engineer for Games
Music Editor
Post-Production Sound Specialist
Audio Content Creator for Digital Media

The institution's focus on practical skills ensures that students are ready to contribute to award-winning teams and shape culture through innovative audio work. Alumni have successfully transitioned into roles at leading companies such as Warner Bros. Discovery and Disney Theatrical Group, demonstrating the professional relevance of the training provided.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Film Music History: The Art of the Film Score

Pro Tools User Level Certification Preparation

Soundtrack Industry Overview

Modern Techniques in Music Production

Sound Design

Audio Production

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 36 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

63 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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