Best Online Audio and Music Degree Programs for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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What can I expect from an online audio and music degree?

The best online audio and music programs intersect science and art. These degrees don’t just teach you how to press record; they shape how you hear, create, and think about music in a digital world. Here’s what you can typically expect from an online audio and music degree:

• Core Courses: Learn the fundamentals of audio engineering, music production, and digital composition.
• Hands-On Projects: Build real-world experience through mixing sessions, scoring assignments, and production work.
• Industry Software: Get trained on tools like Pro Tools, Logic Pro, and Ableton Live used by professionals.
• Collaborative Opportunities: Work with peers and instructors remotely to simulate industry workflows.
• Capstone or Portfolio: Graduate with a polished body of work that showcases your technical and creative skills.
• Flexible Scheduling: Access course materials and complete assignments on your own time, perfect for working students or active musicians.
• Remote Access to Resources: Tap into virtual labs, cloud-based software, and streaming lectures from anywhere in the world.

Where can I work with an online audio and music degree?

An online audio and music degree can open doors to creative, technical, and entrepreneurial roles across a wide range of industries. From behind the scenes to center stage, the skills you gain are in demand wherever sound matters. Here are some of the most common fields:

• Film and TV Production: Edit dialogue, design soundscapes, or mix audio for streaming and broadcast content.
• Music Industry: Work as a producer, recording engineer, or mixing/mastering specialist for artists and labels.
• Gaming and Interactive Media: Create immersive audio for video games, apps, and virtual environments.
• Live Events and Venues: Manage sound for concerts, theater productions, conferences, and festivals.
• Advertising and Marketing: Produce jingles, voiceovers, or branded audio content for commercials and campaigns.
• Freelance or Entrepreneurship: Start your own studio, offer remote audio services, or build a brand as an independent artist or music producer.

How much can I make with an online audio and music degree?

Audio skills can translate into a profitable career—one that’s often underestimated. From mixing tracks in your bedroom to leading sound design on major productions, an online degree can be the bridge to high-paying opportunities. 

The numbers speak for themselves:

• Top Earners: Make up to $151,500 annually, typically in senior or specialized roles.
• 75th Percentile: Earn around $113,000, often with several years of experience and a strong portfolio.
• Average Salary: Sits at $84,456, reflecting solid mid-level positions across the industry.
• 25th Percentile: Around $50,000, common for entry-level roles or those just starting out.

List of the Best Online Audio and Music Degree Programs for 2025

1. Berklee College of Music - Online

Berklee College of Music - Online offers a Bachelor of Arts in Electronic Music Production and Sound Design that equips students with cutting-edge skills in sound design, synthesis, and electronic music composition. The program covers key technologies and techniques—including subtractive, additive, FM, sampling, and granular synthesis.

• Program Length: 4 years
• Tracks/concentrations: Electronic Music Production and Sound Design
• Estimated Cost: $62,150
• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

2. Academy of Art University

Academy of Art University’s Associate in Sound Design program blends cinematic storytelling with hands-on experience across film, games, and experimental audio. Students gain practical skills in recording, editing, and mixing sound for visual media using tools like Pro Tools and Logic. Graduates build a professional demo reel and are prepared for diverse careers in entertainment audio.

• Program Length: 2 years
• Tracks/concentrations: Sound Design
• Estimated Cost: $34,053
• Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

3. Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design

Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design’s online Bachelor of Fine Arts in Music Production combines technical training with cultural and creative exploration. The program covers music theory, composition, audio engineering, and music business while emphasizing innovation through industry-standard and emerging technologies. Students gain hands-on experience prepared to shape the future of music and multimedia production.

• Program Length: 4 years
• Tracks/concentrations: Music Production
• Estimated Cost: $91,020
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

4. Los Angeles Film School

The Los Angeles Film School offers an online Bachelor of Science in Audio Production that prepares students for today’s fast-paced digital media landscape. The program covers the full audio engineering and production process, with accelerated courses tailored to interactive audio fields. Graduates are equipped to work in live events, video games, or post-production sound for film and television—often from anywhere in the world.

• Program Length: 4 years
• Tracks/concentrations: Audio Production
• Estimated Cost: $66,900
• Accreditation: Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC)

5. Atlanta Institute of Music and Media

Atlanta Institute of Music and Media’s Associate of Applied Science in Music Production and Audio for Media is focused on sound design, recording, and engineering for film, TV, gaming, and digital media. The program provides a hands-on learning environment that sharpens both technical and creative skills. Students in good standing also have the opportunity to earn Pro Tools Certification, enhancing their credentials in music production and audio post-production.

• Program Length: 18-30 months
• Tracks/concentrations: Music Production, Audio for Media
• Estimated Cost: $39,100
• Accreditation: Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC)

How long does it take to complete an online audio and music degree program?

The length of an online audio and music degree depends on the type of credential you’re pursuing. Most online bachelor’s programs, like those from Berklee Online and the Los Angeles Film School, take about 4 years to complete and cover music theory, production, sound design, and engineering.

If you're looking for a faster path into the industry, associate’s degree programs offer a shorter timeline. At schools like the Atlanta Institute of Music and Media, you can expect to complete an Associate of Applied Science in 18 months full-time or 30 months part-time.

Online learning also adds flexibility, allowing students to balance their education with work, gigs, or other commitments. Some schools offer accelerated formats or part-time options, making them ideal for students searching for the fastest online audio and music degree programs. 

How does an online audio and music degree compare to an on-campus program?

Today’s online audio and music degree programs rival their on-campus counterparts in depth, rigor, and creative opportunity while offering a different kind of flexibility. Still, each format has its strengths depending on how you learn best and where you want to grow.  For students interested in complementary skills in digital product design, some also explore the top online UX design degrees to expand their creative and technical expertise.

Here’s how they differ:

Online Audio and Music Degree:

• Flexible Scheduling: Learn at your own pace and on your own time, ideal for working students or gigging musicians.
• Remote Collaboration: Engage with peers and instructors across the globe using cloud-based tools and virtual Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs).
• Tech-Driven Learning: Courses are designed to simulate real-world workflows using industry-standard software like Pro Tools, Logic, and Ableton Live.
• Accessible Anywhere: No need to relocate—build your skills from a home studio, tour bus, or wherever you work best.
• Self-Motivation Required: You’ll need strong time management and discipline to stay on track without in-person accountability.

On-Campus Audio and Music Degree:

• In-Person Access: Use physical studios, live sound rooms, and campus gear for hands-on training.
• Face-to-Face Mentorship: Immediate feedback from instructors and more spontaneous interaction with classmates.
• Networking Opportunities: Stronger in-person connections may lead to more industry referrals and gig opportunities.
• Campus Resources: Tap into facilities like performance halls, rehearsal spaces, and campus events.
• Fixed Schedule: Classes follow a traditional academic calendar, which may limit flexibility for outside commitments.

Both online and on-campus degrees offer valuable pathways into the audio industry; it’s just a matter of which environment suits your style. If you're self-directed and comfortable with technology, an online degree might be your perfect mix. 

Moreover, if you're aiming for a well-rounded skill set that combines sound with visual storytelling, some schools also offer accelerated cinematography degrees online, which is a great option for those looking to master both sides of media production.

What is the average cost of an online audio and music degree?

Online bachelor’s programs in audio and music from higher-end institutions can cost around $91,020, reflecting their extensive curricula and faculty expertise (Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design, n.d.). Meanwhile, more affordable options are priced closer to $62,150 (Berklee, n.d.). That puts the average cost of a 4-year bachelor's degree at $76,585.

Associate’s degrees offer a shorter, more cost-effective path into the industry. These programs can cost up to $39,100 (Atlanta Institute of Music and Media, n.d.). They’re ideal for students who want hands-on training and faster entry into sound design, production, or technical roles.

While online degrees often save students money on commuting, housing, and campus fees, the tuition still reflects the value of specialized instruction and access to industry-grade tools. With the recorded music revenue reaching $29.6 billion, the potential return on investment is exponential.

What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online audio and music degree?

A wide range of scholarships and financial aid options are available to help audio and music majors manage tuition costs and focus on their craft. From need-based funding to merit-based awards tied to performance and potential, students can also explore programs like best online digital photography degrees for additional creative opportunities and funding resources.

• SoundBetter Music Scholarship: Provides a $1,000 annual award to a US citizen or permanent resident enrolled in a music-related certificate or degree program. Open to students 18 or older enrolled at least part-time in any recognized music field.
• The Nellie Love Butcher Music Scholarship: Provides a one-time award of up to $5,000 for students studying piano or voice, with preference given to attendees of the Duke Ellington School of the Arts. 
• ESP Rock Guitar Scholarship: Sponsored by ESP Guitars, the ESP Rock Guitar Scholarship supports intermediate or advanced rock guitar students enrolling in the AA or BM in Performance (Guitar) at Musicians Institute. This $5,000-award recognizes exceptional musicianship and potential for a unique sound.
• Gospel Fest Music Arts Scholarship: Offered through the Saginaw Community Foundation to students pursuing musical arts. Open to high school seniors, undergraduates, and graduate students residing in Saginaw County. Scholarship amount varies.
• Sherrill L. Smith Music Scholarship: This scholarship is for music majors with financial need who are actively involved in extracurricular activities. Applicants must have a minimum 3.0 GPA and attend a Michigan college or university. Scholarship amount varies.

With over 50,300 employed music directors and composers in the industry, the competition is real, but so is the opportunity. That’s where scholarships come in: they not only ease the financial burden but also give emerging talent the freedom to focus on refining their craft and building a lasting career.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online audio and music degree?

Breaking into the world of audio and music requires a foundation of skills, tools, and readiness to learn in a digital-first environment. While online programs offer flexibility, institutions still expect students to arrive prepared. Meeting the right prerequisites ensures you can keep up creatively and technically from day one.

Here’s what most programs expect before you hit record:

• High School Diploma or Equivalent: Most online associate and bachelor’s degree programs require proof of secondary education, such as a high school diploma or GED.
• Basic Musical Knowledge: While not always mandatory, understanding music theory, chord structures, scales, or instrumentation can give you a leg up.
• Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) Familiarity: Experience with tools like Pro Tools, Logic Pro, or Ableton Live is often encouraged—and sometimes required.
• Instrument Proficiency: If you’re applying for a performance or composition-focused track, demonstrating basic to intermediate proficiency on an instrument may be expected.
• Portfolio or Audition (Sometimes Required): Some programs may ask for a demo reel, performance clip, or original track to evaluate your skill level.
• Ear Training Skills: The ability to recognize intervals, chords, and rhythms by ear isn’t always required but is highly beneficial for coursework in composition and production

If you're looking to make the most of your investment, choosing the best value audio and music degree online ensures you’re getting both quality education and long-term return.

What courses are typically in an online audio and music degree?

An online audio and music degree is a deep dive into the mechanics, artistry, and business of sound. From mixing techniques to music theory, these programs build a well-rounded skill set designed for today’s digital-first music industry, while students interested in complementary technical fields might also consider a fast track industrial engineering online master's to expand their analytical and operational expertise.

Here’s a breakdown of core courses you’re likely to encounter:

• Music Theory and Composition: Study the basics of melody, harmony, and rhythm. This knowledge supports songwriting, arranging, and performance.
• Mixing and Mastering: Learn how to process, balance, and polish tracks for a professional finish. These are essential skills for audio engineers and producers.
• Sound Design: Understand how to create and manipulate audio from scratch. It’s widely used in music, film, games, and interactive media.
• Music Business Fundamentals: Explore licensing, royalties, and marketing in today’s industry. This course helps prepare you for the business side of music.
• Live Sound and Event Production: Learn how to deliver clear, high-quality audio in real-time settings. Covers everything from stage setup to troubleshooting.
• Acoustics and Studio Design: Study how sound behaves in physical spaces. You’ll also learn how to build or optimize a recording environment.
• AI and Emerging Technologies in Music: Explores how AI is used for sound editing and design. See our list of the shortest online artificial intelligence programs for your reference.

These courses provide a toolkit that blends creativity with technical precision. Whether you're producing beats, composing scores, or engineering live shows, this curriculum sets the stage for a career that’s as versatile as the music you’ll create.

What types of specializations are available in online audio and music degree programs?

In music, generalists know the tools; specialists set the tone. Specializations let you focus your creative energy on the area of audio or music production that resonates most with your goals.

Here are some of the most common (and in-demand) specialization options:

• Audio Engineering: Focuses on the technical craft of capturing, editing, mixing, and mastering audio. This path equips students with deep knowledge of studio gear, signal flow, and acoustics for both live and recorded sound.

• Music Production: Emphasizes the creation of tracks from scratch—crafting beats, arranging instruments, and building full songs in a digital environment. Students develop fluency in DAWs like Ableton Live, Logic Pro X, and FL Studio.

• Sound Design: Covers the creation of original sound effects, ambient textures, and audio identities for games, films, and immersive media. Techniques include synthesizer programming, field recording, and manipulating audio for emotional or narrative effect.

• Film and Game Scoring: Trains composers to write music that supports storytelling, gameplay dynamics, and emotional arcs. This specialization requires a strong grasp of timing, orchestration, and syncing music with visual cues.

• Live Sound and Event Production: Teaches how to manage sound systems in real-world venues like concerts, festivals, and theater productions. Students learn how to set up, operate, and troubleshoot complex live audio rigs.

• Music Business and Marketing: Focuses on artist management, copyright, licensing, and monetization strategies. A fast-track MBA in marketing online can give graduates a competitive edge in areas like brand development and digital promotion.

• Voice and Vocal Production: Trains students to capture, edit, and enhance vocal performances for music, podcasts, and media. Coursework includes vocal comping, tuning, timing, and effects processing for a polished result.

No matter your focus, a strong specialization can help you carve out a distinct space in an industry that values both creativity and expertise. After choosing a niche, the next step is to hone the skill set necessary to thrive in your chosen specialty. For reference, here are the most common skills for musicians in 2025:

How to choose the best online audio and music degree?

Picking the right online audio and music degree is like composing your future—it demands precision and a sharp ear for what truly matters. You need a program that aligns with your ambitions and sets you up for success, not just the first one that sounds good. 

Here are key factors to consider when choosing an online audio and music degree program:

• Accreditation and Reputation: Look for programs with recognized accreditation. This ensures quality and validates your degree for future jobs or further education. Curricula that complement your goals—such as shortest sports psychology programs online for those interested in performance mental training—can provide added career versatility.
• Curriculum Focus: Check if the coursework covers your specific interests, whether it's audio engineering, music production, sound design, or music business. A strong program balances theory with practical application.
• Faculty Expertise: Research instructors who are not just academics but also active industry professionals. Look for those with experience as touring sound engineers, film composers with studio credits, music business executives, or renowned session musicians. 
• Industry-Standard Technology and Software: Confirm the program teaches with and provides access to current industry-standard software. For music production, this means DAWs like Pro Tools, Ableton Live, Logic Pro X, FL Studio, or Cubase. 
• Hands-on Learning: Even online, practical experience is key. Seek out programs with projects, virtual studio sessions, and opportunities to build a strong portfolio of actual tracks, sound effects, or scores.
• Genre Exploration: If you want to specialize in EDM, film scoring, or classical composition, find a program that offers genre-specific coursework. Tailored classes can shape your sound and sharpen your voice.
• Alumni Network: A strong alumni network can open doors to mentorship, internships, and job opportunities after you graduate. Look for programs with active connections to the music and audio industries.

By carefully weighing these factors, you can find a program that equally equips you with the necessary skills and opens doors to vast opportunities. And if your passion lies in understanding the music industry as a business, pursuing a fast-track online bachelor's degree in entertainment business could be the perfect next step to accelerate your career.

What career paths are available for graduates of online audio and music degrees?

Online audio and music degrees open doors to a diverse array of exciting careers in the entertainment and media industries. Your specialized skills can lead to fulfilling roles, shaping the sounds of our world.

Here are some of the most popular career paths for graduates of online audio and music degrees:

• Audio Engineer: Record, mix, and master audio across music, film, podcasts, and more. Precision and a sharp ear are essential to ensure a polished final product.
• Music Producer: Oversee the entire music-making process, from songwriting and arranging to recording and mixing. Producers help artists bring their creative visions to life.
• Sound Designer: Create original audio elements that enhance everything from films to video games. This role blends technical skill with creative experimentation.
• Film and Game Composer: Score original music tailored to the emotion and pacing of visual media. Composers help define a project’s mood and tone through sound.
• Live Sound Engineer: Manage microphones, mixers, and PA systems during concerts, theater performances, and live broadcasts. A cool head and quick reflexes are key.
• Vocal Producer: Focus on capturing and refining vocal performances with pitch correction, timing adjustments, and creative effects. Your job is to make voices shine.
• Post-Production Audio Specialist: Polish dialogue, sound effects, and ambient noise for film, television, and commercials. This role ensures audio is seamless and immersive.
• Broadcast Technician: Set up, monitor, and troubleshoot audio systems for live and recorded broadcasts. Attention to detail is critical to maintaining top-tier audio quality.

The audio and music landscape is dynamic, offering exciting opportunities for those with the right skills and passion to launch their professional journey in this vibrant industry. For your reference, here are the best paying audio and music-related jobs in the US:

What is the job outlook for graduates with an online audio and music degree?

The music industry is a complex ecosystem of evolving roles and steady opportunities. While growth rates vary by specialization, there’s consistent demand for skilled professionals who can create, manage, and deliver high-quality audio experiences.

Here’s how the numbers stack up according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (2025), based on different areas of focus:

• Performance and Recording (Musicians and Singers): Employment is projected to grow 2% from 2023 to 2033, slightly slower than the national average across all occupations. Still, roughly 20,400 job openings are expected each year, largely from people exiting the profession.
• Composition and Direction (Music Directors and Composers): This field is expected to grow by 3% over the same period, matching the national average. An estimated 5,100 job openings are projected annually, due to both new roles and turnover.
• Audio Engineering and Production (Sound Engineering Technicians): Job growth for broadcast, sound, and video technicians is projected at 3% through 2033. With about 12,900 openings each year, this role offers stable demand driven by retirements and career changes.

The numbers may not suggest explosive expansion, but consistent demand and creative reinvention keep the field dynamic. With the right skills, graduates can tune their talents to opportunity.

How Can Complementary Creative Disciplines Elevate Your Online Audio and Music Degree?

Integrating disciplines such as creative writing can add a unique storytelling dimension to your technical and musical expertise. This interdisciplinary approach empowers students to craft compelling narratives and enhances projects through innovative soundscapes and media storytelling. By leveraging narrative techniques, graduates can create richer, more engaging audio experiences that resonate with diverse audiences and open doors in film, advertising, and multimedia production. For instance, understanding narrative structure can be pivotal when developing soundtracks that support visual or literary content, mirroring strategies seen in programs like what can you do with a masters in creative writing. This added creative insight fosters cross-functional skills that are highly valued by employers in competitive creative industries.

How Are Internships and Practical Experiences Integrated in Online Audio and Music Degree Programs?

Online audio and music degree programs often incorporate practical components designed to simulate in-person experiences. These programs leverage virtual labs, project-based assignments, and industry partnerships to provide hands-on learning opportunities. Many institutions facilitate remote internships, mentor matches, and real-world projects that allow students to apply technical skills in authentic settings. Additionally, selective programs foster creative cross-training by drawing inspiration from disciplines such as writing—similar to opportunities found in the cheapest online MFA creative writing arena—further strengthening students’ storytelling and collaborative abilities essential for professional growth.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say About Their Online Audio and Music Degrees

Other Things You Need to Know About Online and Music Degree Programs

How do online music programs handle performance-based courses?

Online music programs typically use video submissions, live virtual sessions, and performance critiques to assess students' playing or singing skills. Students may be required to record and upload solo or ensemble performances for review by instructors and peers. Some programs also partner with local mentors or offer optional on-campus intensives for in-person feedback.

How are songwriting and lyric writing taught in online programs?

Songwriting and lyric writing are taught through a mix of structured assignments, peer workshops, and instructor feedback. Students learn to analyze song structure, explore different lyrical styles, and apply creative techniques to develop original material. Many programs use cloud-based collaboration tools so students can co-write and share works in progress in real time.

What kind of software or equipment will I need for an online music degree?

To get the most out of your online music courses, you'll need a few essential tools:

• Digital Audio Workstation (DAW): Popular options include Logic Pro, Ableton Live, or Pro Tools.
• Studio Headphones: To accurately monitor recordings and mixes.
• Microphone: A condenser mic is often recommended for vocals and instruments.
• MIDI Controller or Keyboard: Useful for composing, arranging, and performing music.

How are collaborative projects managed in a remote music program?

Collaborative projects are facilitated through cloud-based platforms like Soundtrap, Splice, or shared DAW sessions via Dropbox or Google Drive. Students often work in virtual teams to co-produce tracks, provide feedback, or complete group compositions. Scheduled check-ins, digital workspaces, and instructor oversight help ensure projects stay on track.