Fastest Online Audio and Music Degree Programs for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Many people who love music wonder if an online audio or music degree program offers a good return on investment for their career. This article helps answer that question by exploring the fastest online degree options in these exciting fields.

The music industry offers a range of job opportunities. For example, the employment of musicians and singers is expected to grow by 2% between 2023 and 2033, while positions for music directors and composers are projected to grow by 3% during the same period.

Research.com's team has over a decade of experience in career planning and development. We use only reliable sources to provide accurate, up-to-date information. By reading this article, you will know how to pursue a rewarding and marketable career in audio and music.

What are the benefits of getting an online audio and music degree program?

An online audio and music degree program opens doors to careers such as music producer, sound engineer, audio technician, and sound designer.
The median annual wage for music directors and composers was $63,670 in 2024.
Flexible online format allows you to study on your schedule from anywhere, minimizing disruption to your career and personal commitments.

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

An online audio and music degree program typically includes a core curriculum covering music theory, audio technology, recording techniques, and production skills. Students often complete a capstone project or demo reel showcasing their best work, along with internship hours to gain real-world experience. Tuition for these programs generally ranges from $15,000 to $50,000, depending on the institution.

Online classes are usually delivered through video lectures, interactive assignments, and virtual studios, allowing students to learn flexibly from anywhere while accessing industry-standard software and expert instruction. This format supports both full-time students and working professionals seeking to advance their careers.

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

An online audio and music degree can open doors to diverse career opportunities across many industries. Graduates frequently find roles in corporate settings, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations. They can also launch their businesses. Many secure positions in management, consulting, or research, and specialized fields related to their studies.

Beyond traditional music roles, these degrees provide pathways to careers in education, technology, healthcare, or creative industries. For example, the performing arts companies industry employs 2.81% of music directors and composers, making it a significant employer. Religious organizations also hire many, accounting for 1.72% of employment in these roles.

Additionally, sound recording industries employ 2.44% of music directors and composers, while elementary and secondary schools and colleges, universities, and professional schools hire 0.01% of these professionals, respectively. The problem-solving, communication, and critical thinking skills gained through these programs enable graduates to adapt effectively to various work environments, increasing their versatility.

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

Professionals with an online audio and music degree can expect average salaries around $84,000 per year, with entry-level positions typically starting near $40,000 to $50,000 annually. Salary varies by industry, experience, and location; for example, audio engineers in major markets or specialized roles can earn over $100,000 annually.

Experienced music producers earn an average of about $61,000 per year, with potential for higher income as skills and reputation grow. Advanced degrees or certifications often lead to greater salary growth and more senior roles in production, engineering, or management. Overall, continuous skill development and networking significantly impact earning potential in this competitive field.

List of the Best Online Audio and Music Degree Programs for 2025
How long does it take to complete an online audio and music degree program?
How does an online audio and music degree compare to an on-campus program?
What is the average cost of an online audio and music degree program?
What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online audio and music degree program?
What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online audio and music degree program?
What courses are typically in an online audio and music degree program?
What types of specializations are available in an online audio and music degree program?
How important is accreditation for online audio and music degree programs?
What are the potential challenges of pursuing an online audio and music degree program?
How to Choose the Best Online Audio and Music Degree Programs
What career paths are available for graduates of an online audio and music degree program?
What is the job market for graduates of an online audio and music degree program?
Other Things You Should Know About Online Audio and Music Degree Programs

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

Recognizing that paying for a degree is a significant investment, our ranking methodology ensures that students can make informed decisions based on comprehensive and transparent information. The ranking draws on reliable sources, including the IPEDS database, Peterson's database, the College Scorecard database, and the National Center for Education Statistics.

These sources provide a robust foundation of data to evaluate and rank the best online audio and music degree programs. For more details on our methodology, please visit Research.com's methodology page.

1. Valley City State University

Valley City State University offers a flexible online Bachelor's in Music with a General Studies concentration, ideal for non-traditional students and those balancing commitments. The program features a comprehensive curriculum, from core music courses to performance instruction, with electives for personalization.

Required Credits to Graduate: 120 credits
Cost: Approximately $8,729 per year for 30 credits (2025-2026), plus additional fees.
Accreditation: National Association of Schools of Music (NASM).

2. Berklee College of Music

Berklee College of Music (Berklee Online) provides a wide array of flexible and affordable online Bachelor of Arts degrees in music, spanning production, performance, business, and more. Designed for all skill levels, the programs are renowned for industry connections and expert faculty.

Required Credits to Graduate: 120 credits
Cost: Approximately $16,920 for full-time undergraduate tuition per year
Accreditation: NASM

3. University of Maine at Augusta

The University of Maine at Augusta (UMA) has dynamic music programs, including a Bachelor of Music in Contemporary and Popular Music and a Bachelor of Arts in Music Technology, available both on campus and online. UMA emphasizes hands-on learning, industry connections, and flexible options for diverse student needs, focusing on practical skills and career readiness.

Required Credits to Graduate: 121 credits
Cost: $245 per credit hour for in-state tuition; $314 per credit hour for out-of-state tuition
Accreditation: NASM

4. Atlanta Institute of Music & Media

The Atlanta Institute of Music & Media (AIMM) offers an online Associate of Applied Science in Music Production and Audio for Media (MPAM) degree, perfect for aspiring music producers and sound engineers. This flexible program emphasizes both traditional music theory and modern production techniques, including AVID Pro Tools Certification and Ableton Live Training.

Required Credits to Graduate: 92
Cost: $425 per credit hour
Accreditation: Council on Occupational Education (COE)

5. Academy of Art University

Academy of Art University has an online Music Production & Sound Design for Visual Media degree, enabling students to master professional music creation from a home studio. Taught by industry professionals, the program provides high-quality content, hands-on experience, and collaborative opportunities through a dynamic online platform.

Required Credits to Graduate: 132 credits
Cost: Approximately $28,704 per year for full-time undergraduate tuition
Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) and National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD).

6. Full Sail University

Full Sail University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Audio Production, designed to equip entrepreneurial-minded individuals with the skills to thrive as independent audio creators. The program covers everything from music business fundamentals to advanced production and post-production techniques, preparing students for diverse roles in the evolving audio industry, from traditional studios to flexible creative spaces.

Required Credits to Graduate: 120 credits
Cost: Approximately $66,500 total
Accreditation: Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC)

7. The Los Angeles Film School

The Los Angeles Film School offers an online Bachelor of Science in Audio Production, designed to teach comprehensive audio engineering and production from anywhere. This accelerated program prepares students for various roles in the digital media environment, including live events, video games, and post-production sound for film and TV.

Required Credits to Graduate: 120 credit hours
Cost: Approximately $20,350 per year
Accreditation: ACCSC

8. Virginia Wesleyan University

Virginia Wesleyan University offers a Bachelor of Arts in Music Production, a unique online program that focuses on digital technology and the skills essential for today's music industry. With a curriculum built on piano, musicianship, and history, students gain expertise in music technology, digital composition, and sound recording using industry-standard software like Ableton Live, all through project-based evaluations.

Required Credits to Graduate: 120 total degree credit hours
Cost: $410 per credit hour
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

9. Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design (RMCAD)

Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design (RMCAD) offers an online Bachelor of Fine Arts in Music Production, focusing on both creative expression and technical proficiency. The program provides a comprehensive curriculum, covering music theory, digital production, and industry ethics.

Required Credits to Graduate: 120 credits
Cost: $740 per credit
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD)

10. Liberty University

Liberty University provides a 100% online Bachelor of Science in Commercial Music with a Music Production specialization designed for aspiring music producers and industry professionals. The flexible, 8-week courses cover fundamentals like digital audio workstations, studio mixing, and audio engineering.

Required Credits to Graduate: 120 credit hours
Cost: $390 per credit hour for full-time undergraduate students; $455 per credit hour for part-time undergraduate students; $250 per credit hour for military undergraduate students
Accreditation: SACSCOC and NASM

Meanwhile, the chart below shows the most common degrees among musicians:

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

The time to complete an online audio and music degree program varies depending on the level and type of degree:

Certificates: You can earn an audio or studio recording technology certificate in just 5 to 6 months, or about two quarters.
Diplomas: Most diploma programs in audio technology take about a year of full-time study to complete.
Associate Degrees: An associate degree in studio recording technology generally takes about 18 months.
Bachelor's Degrees: For a bachelor's degree in audio or music production, plan on 3 to 4 years of full-time study and around 120 credit hours. Some online programs offer faster completion.
Master's Degrees: Master's degrees in music education or related areas typically require 30 to 50 credits and take 1 to 2 years to finish.

For those interested in the business side of the music and media industries, the fastest online entertainment business degree programs offer an alternative path that emphasizes management, marketing, and production leadership. These programs are designed to be completed in less time and are ideal for aspiring producers, managers, or entrepreneurs looking to accelerate their careers in the entertainment field.

What percentage of musicians hold a bachelor's degree?

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

When comparing online audio and music degree programs to traditional on-campus ones, several key differences and considerations emerge:

Hands-On Experience and Networking

On-campus programs give you direct access to top-notch equipment, studios, and in-person collaboration. This is essential for mastering the practical skills you need in music production and audio engineering. Plus, you'll naturally build valuable connections with classmates, teachers, and industry pros. Many consider these in-person networking opportunities a major benefit of attending a physical school.

In contrast, online programs, even with their advancements, might not offer the same immediate, hands-on guidance or spontaneous networking. Some students and industry experts believe that missing out on face-to-face interactions and studio time can limit how much you develop your skills and connections, both of which are crucial in this field.

Curriculum and Flexibility

Online degrees often provide flexible schedules, letting you balance your studies with work or other responsibilities. Many online programs focus on digital music production tools and software, like Ableton Live, and use project-based learning instead of traditional exams. This approach can be great for building practical skills.

On-campus programs may offer a wider variety of courses, including acoustics, advanced recording techniques, and interdisciplinary studies in areas like physics or computer science. Their curricula can be more rigorous and specialized. However, these programs usually require full-time attendance and commuting, which doesn't work for everyone.

When considering the underlying principles of these programs, it's worth noting the distinction between information technology vs. computer science: while music technology often leverages IT tools for practical application, a deeper understanding of computational theory, akin to computer science, can further enhance innovative approaches in audio processing and software development within music.

Cost and Accessibility

Online programs can be more affordable and easier to access since you save on relocation and commuting costs. They also let you learn from anywhere, which is perfect if you have a full-time job or other commitments. On-campus programs often come with higher tuition fees and additional costs for campus facilities. Despite this, they might offer more comprehensive resources and direct mentorship.

Industry Perception and Career Impact

Some industry professionals and students believe that a formal degree, whether online or on-campus, isn't always essential for a successful career in music production. Your skills, a strong portfolio, and your network often matter more to employers than the degree itself.

However, a degree can provide a structured learning path, a solid technical foundation, and credibility. This can be especially helpful for roles that require deeper theoretical knowledge or teaching credentials.

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

The cost of an online audio and music degree program varies significantly, depending on the institution and the specific program type. For instance, annual tuition for online bachelor's degrees in music or audio typically ranges from about $7,470 to $35,000. Considering the entire program, a bachelor's degree can therefore cost anywhere from approximately $30,000 to over $90,000. This total cost depends heavily on the program's length and the school, and students may reduce their overall expenses through transfer credits when seeking the best value audio and music degree online.

While specific costs vary, certificate programs and associate degrees in music and audio generally present less expensive options. For those pursuing advanced studies, online master's degrees in music have a tuition of around $34,000 for a 36-credit program.

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

Students enrolling in online audio and music degree programs have several financial aid options available:

Federal Financial Aid: Some online music schools like AIMM participate in Title IV federal aid programs, allowing students who qualify to apply for federal grants and loans by submitting the necessary documentation at least 30 days before classes start.
Institutional Scholarships and Grants: Eligibility for need-based grants typically depends on income thresholds, and applicants must submit tax returns or bank statements along with a personal statement.
Private Educational Loans: Some institutions support private educational loans. They also offer flexible payment plans and recommend students apply for aid well in advance of semester start dates.
Employer Tuition Assistance and Military Benefits: Some online programs accept employer tuition reimbursement and military education benefits, providing additional financial support options.
Payment Plans: Many online programs allow students to pay tuition upfront or in installments per semester or course, improving affordability and budgeting flexibility.
Scholarships Based on Portfolio and Personal Statements: Some schools require a portfolio submission and personal statement as part of scholarship applications, emphasizing talent and potential for industry success.

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

The prerequisites for enrolling in an online audio and music degree program vary by degree level. Here are the typical requirements for undergraduate degrees:

Completion of high school or secondary school.
Proficiency in English (reading, writing, and speaking).
Submission of an online application, transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement or demonstration of musicianship (either a written essay or a video presentation).
Some programs may require a portfolio or supplemental materials related to music skills.
Application fees typically apply, though some schools waive them for early applicants.

Interestingly, students who have completed programs like a fast-track online creative writing degree may find certain audio and music schools more accessible, especially if they can demonstrate strong storytelling, lyrical composition, or scriptwriting skills relevant to multimedia projects. This type of background can enhance a portfolio and broaden career options in both music and creative arts industries.

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

Typical courses in an online audio and music degree program include:

Music Theory and Aural Skills: Study of the fundamentals of music structure, harmony, and ear training to develop musicianship.
Music History and Styles: Exploration of various music genres, their contexts, and historical development, such as Jazz, Rock, and World Music.
Music Production and Recording Techniques: Learning digital audio workstations (DAWs), recording, editing, mixing, and mastering processes for music production.
Songwriting and Composition: Developing skills in creating original music, including melody, harmony, arrangement, and scoring for media.
Performance and Instrumental Skills: Training in contemporary and traditional performance practices, including keyboard proficiency and ensemble work (though ensembles may be limited online).
Music Technology and Digital Tools: Instruction on software and hardware used in modern music production and live performance settings.
Capstone or Culminating Project: Final projects such as a demo reel, recital, thesis, or professional portfolio demonstrating applied skills.

Students interested in creative fields often find that courses in audio and music share a surprising overlap with programs like accelerated online graphic design degrees, especially when it comes to multimedia production, branding, and visual storytelling. Combining skills from both areas can lead to careers in content creation, advertising, and entertainment where audio-visual integration is key.

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

Online audio and music degree programs offer a variety of specializations tailored to different aspects of music and audio production, technology, and business. Common specializations include:

Music Business/Entertainment Business

This specialization focuses on the commercial side of the music industry. You can learn about artist management, music publishing and licensing, record label operations, marketing and promotion, tour management, and entertainment law. This prepares you for roles in various aspects of the music business, from artist representation to marketing and distribution.

If you're looking for a low cost entertainment business degree online, this specialization directly aligns with that goal, equipping you with the essential business acumen for the entertainment sector.

Film Scoring/Music for Visual Media

This specialization trains you to compose and produce music specifically for film, television, video games, and other interactive media. You'll explore how to create scores that enhance storytelling, work with different visual cues, and understand the technical aspects of integrating music with visuals.

Students interested in cinematic arts may also consider accelerated cinematography degrees online, which complement film scoring by focusing on visual storytelling, lighting, and camera techniques—creating a powerful synergy between sound and picture.

Sound Design (especially for Games and Tech)

This area delves into creating and manipulating sounds for various applications beyond traditional music production. You might focus on designing sound effects, ambient soundscapes, and immersive audio experiences for video games, virtual reality, augmented reality, or other technological platforms. This often involves learning specific software and techniques for sound implementation in interactive environments.

Interestingly, the methodical approach to identifying and resolving audio glitches in complex digital environments shares a surprising parallel with how to get into software testing. Both fields demand keen attention to detail, a systematic approach to problem-solving, and a deep understanding of how systems interact to ensure a flawless user experience.

Audio Post-Production

This specialization focuses on the final stages of audio creation for various media, including film, television, and podcasts. It typically involves dialogue editing, sound effects editing, Foley art (creating sounds for visuals), mixing for different media formats, and mastering for broadcast.

Electronic Music Production and Performance

While general music production covers DAWs, this specialization often goes deeper into the nuances of electronic music creation. It includes advanced synthesis, sampling techniques, and potentially live performance with electronic instruments and software.

Live Sound Engineering

This specialization trains you to handle audio for live events like concerts, theater productions, and corporate shows. You'll master sound reinforcement, live mixing, stage setup, and troubleshooting acoustics in real time - skills that require precision, adaptability, and technical confidence.

As live events increasingly integrate digital tech, sound engineers who understand systems thinking and resource management stand out. Gaining exposure to broader concepts, such as those offered in affordable cloud engineering online training, can strengthen your ability to manage complex workflows, lead tech teams, or transition into related roles in event production or AV systems design.

The chart below shows the common majors for musicians.

How important is accreditation for online audio and music degree programs?

Accreditation serves as a critical indicator of academic rigor and institutional quality in online audio and music degree programs. Prospective students should verify that the program meets nationally or regionally recognized standards to ensure eligibility for financial aid, credit transfers, and professional certification. Evaluating accreditation provides insight into curriculum quality and faculty expertise, which reinforces the degree’s credibility and industry acceptance. It is also beneficial to compare these quality measures with overall costs when exploring options like cheap online creative writing degree programs.

What are the potential challenges of pursuing an online audio and music degree program?

Online audio and music degree programs can sometimes present obstacles that require proactive solutions. These may include limited direct access to high-end studio equipment and in-person mentorship, which can necessitate additional self-initiated practical experiences and local internships. Students should plan for potential technology hurdles and invest time in learning industry-specific software and hardware independently. It is also advisable to investigate comprehensive student support services and alumni networks, ensuring the program provides sufficient feedback and career guidance. Additionally, while program costs vary, some fields like cheap online master's degree in architecture may offer competitive pricing benchmarks for comparison when evaluating overall value.

How to Choose the Best Online Audio and Music Degree Programs

Choosing an online audio and music degree program requires careful thought. To ensure your choice aligns with your career goals, learning style, and budget, consider these important factors:

Program Specializations and Curriculum: Look for programs that offer specializations matching your interests, whether that's music production, audio engineering, music scoring, sound design, or music business. Always review the curriculum to ensure it covers both theory and practical skills, including digital audio workstations, mixing, mastering, and industry-standard production techniques.
Accreditation and Reputation: Choose accredited institutions. Reputable accrediting bodies ensure quality education and help the industry recognize your degree.
Faculty Expertise and Industry Connections: Research the qualifications and industry experience of faculty members. Also, look for opportunities for mentorship, internships, or networking with professionals in the music and audio industries.
Technology and Resources: Ensure the program provides access to up-to-date music production software, digital audio workstations, and virtual instruments; these are critical for hands-on learning.

Some creative students may also compare their options with the fastest online animation degree programs, especially if they are interested in combining music production with visual media for projects like animated films, video games, or digital marketing content. This cross-disciplinary approach can expand career opportunities and foster a more versatile creative skill set.

What career paths are available for graduates of an online audio and music degree program?

Graduates of online audio and music degree programs have a wide range of career paths available across music production, audio engineering, sound design, and related creative and technical fields. Key career options include:

Sound Engineer: You can work behind the scenes in studios, at live events, or on film sets. Sound engineers record, mix, and master audio, ensuring high-quality sound for music, podcasts, movies, and live performances.
Music Producer: Music producers collaborate closely with artists. They shape the sound of recordings, overseeing both the creative and technical sides of music production, from initial demos to the final mix.
Sound Designer: As a sound designer, you create and manipulate audio elements for various media. This includes crafting immersive sonic environments for film, television, video games, and other multimedia projects to support storytelling. Those interested in audio for games may also explore fast-track game design degrees online, which complement sound design by focusing on the development of interactive environments and user experiences in gaming.
Audio Technician/Technologist: Audio technicians manage audio equipment and technology. You might work at live events, during recording sessions, or in broadcast environments. This field includes roles like live sound engineer or broadcast engineer.
Music Composer and Arranger: Music composers and arrangers write and arrange music for different types of media, such as film, TV, games, and commercials. They often combine their composition skills with production knowledge.

Some graduates also branch out into music entrepreneurship, starting their own studios, labels, or production companies. For those aiming to build strong business acumen alongside creative skills, pursuing one of the shortest online entrepreneurship MBA programs can provide the management, marketing, and leadership training necessary to successfully run and scale a music-related business.

What is the job market for graduates of an online audio and music degree program?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects modest growth for music-related professions over the next decade. They estimate a 2% increase in jobs for musicians and singers from 2023 to 2033. During the same period, employment for music directors and composers will likely grow by 3%, which is about average compared to all other occupations. In 2023, approximately 50,300 people worked as music directors and composers.

For those interested in the crossover between sound and digital interaction, combining an audio degree with credentials from the shortest online user experience programs can open up unique roles in UX audio design, interactive media, and app development—fields where sound plays a key role in user satisfaction and engagement.

Meanwhile, the chart below shows the industries with the highest levels of employment in music directors and composers.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say About Online Audio and Music Degree Programs

Studying online gave me the flexibility I needed to balance my passion for music with my full-time job. I appreciated learning industry-standard techniques from home and immediately applying them to my projects. This program significantly boosted my confidence and technical skills in audio production. - Alexis

The online format allowed me to connect with instructors and peers from around the globe, expanding my network in ways I never imagined. I truly valued the structured curriculum that built my understanding of music theory and composition step-by-step. Earning this degree online made a real difference in how I approach my creative work. - Rita

I chose an online program for its accessibility, and it truly delivered. The convenience of learning at my own pace, combined with comprehensive modules on sound design, helped me develop a strong portfolio. This online degree equipped me with practical skills and a deeper appreciation for the art of audio. - Laura

Key Findings

The employment of musicians and singers is projected to grow by 2% from 2023 to 2033.
Positions for music directors and composers are expected to grow by 3% from 2023 to 2033.
In 2023, approximately 50,300 people worked as music directors and composers.
Performing arts companies employ 2.81% of music directors and composers, making them a significant employer.
The median annual wage for music directors and composers was $63,670 in 2024.

How many people worked as music directors and composers in 2023?

Other Things You Should Know About Online Audio and Music Degree Programs

What is the best degree to get for music?

The best degree to get for music depends on your career goals, but a Bachelor of Music (BM) is often considered ideal for those seeking professional training in performance, composition, or music industry roles due to its specialized focus and comprehensive curriculum.

Degrees like Bachelor of Arts (BA) offer a broader liberal arts education with music studies, while Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) emphasizes performance and artistic skills. Advanced degrees such as Master of Music (MM) or Master of Arts (MA) suit those pursuing higher-level performance or academic careers.

What is the highest degree in music?

The highest degree in music is typically the Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) or a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Music. The DMA focuses on advanced performance, composition, or theory and is designed for master performers, composers, or conductors seeking creative excellence and authority in their field. In contrast, the PhD emphasizes scholarly research and academic contributions to music through dissertations. Both represent the pinnacle of musical education, with the DMA being more practice-oriented and the PhD more research-focused.

Is audio engineering a major?

Yes, audio engineering is offered as a major at many colleges and universities. Students can pursue associate, bachelor's, master's, and even doctoral degrees specifically in audio engineering or related fields like music production, sound design, and audio technology.

These programs combine technical and creative coursework with hands-on experience in recording, mixing, and producing sound for music, film, gaming, and live events. Some schools also offer specialized majors such as Audio Engineering Technology, which focuses on the design and application of audio hardware and systems.

What can you do with an audio degree?

With an audio degree, you can pursue careers such as sound engineer, music producer, sound designer, audio technician, live sound engineer, or multimedia audio specialist. Graduates work in music studios, film and TV production, gaming, live events, broadcasting, and music business roles like artist management or music publishing.

The degree equips you with technical skills in recording, mixing, and producing audio. It also helps with creative abilities for composing and designing sound, opening diverse opportunities in the dynamic audio and music industries.