3 answers
Joshua
Student
Miami Gardens, Florida
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How long does it take to complete a music technology program?
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3 answers
Rudy Bauer
Cyber Security, Hardware Engineering, Systems Engineering
27
Answers
Franklin, Massachusetts
Updated
Rudy’s Answer
My daughter is doing a combined degree of Computer Science and Music technology at Northeastern University.
It is a 4 year degree, but if she chooses to get a Masters it would extend to 5 years.
This includes paid "co-op" jobs that the school facilitates through partnerships with industry.
Check out:
http://catalog.northeastern.edu/undergraduate/arts-media-design/music/music-concentration-music-technology-bs/_ga=2.81927070.927896990.1621947959-1568550094.1617813947
It is a 4 year degree, but if she chooses to get a Masters it would extend to 5 years.
This includes paid "co-op" jobs that the school facilitates through partnerships with industry.
Check out:
http://catalog.northeastern.edu/undergraduate/arts-media-design/music/music-concentration-music-technology-bs/_ga=2.81927070.927896990.1621947959-1568550094.1617813947
James Constantine Frangos
SOFTWARE ENGINEER SINCE 1972; NUTRITIONIST SINCE 1976.
7094
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Good Day Joshua!
The duration to complete a music technology program can vary based on the institution and the specific program. Generally, you can expect:
Bachelor's Degree: Typically takes 4 years to complete.
Associate Degree: Usually takes 2 years.
Certificate Programs: May take 1 year or less, depending on the program structure.
SEE https://arts.ufl.edu/academics/music/programs/composition-theory-and-technology/ [School of Music] ALSO https://www.scf.edu/programs/music-production/ [Music Production [2050]]
GOD BLESS!
The duration to complete a music technology program can vary based on the institution and the specific program. Generally, you can expect:
Bachelor's Degree: Typically takes 4 years to complete.
Associate Degree: Usually takes 2 years.
Certificate Programs: May take 1 year or less, depending on the program structure.
SEE https://arts.ufl.edu/academics/music/programs/composition-theory-and-technology/ [School of Music] ALSO https://www.scf.edu/programs/music-production/ [Music Production [2050]]
GOD BLESS!
Joe L.
Program Manager
120
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Joe’s Answer
Here's list of top schools in this field and what it takes to get into them...
Hope this helps you ...Good Luck!
Top Colleges for Music Technology Programs
Several institutions consistently stand out in music technology for their innovation, facilities, and alumni success:
Berklee College of Music (Boston, MA) – Offers an acclaimed Electronic Production and Design major that emphasizes sound design and electronic composition.
New York University (NYU), Steinhardt School – Provides a Bachelor of Music in Music Technology, covering audio engineering, computer music programming, and interactive applications.
University of Southern California (USC), Thornton – Features a Music Production program with emphasis on digital signal processing and synthesis.
Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech) – Boasts a robust Music Technology program with courses in sound synthesis, audio signal processing, and digital instrument development.
University of Michigan (Ann Arbor) – Houses a strong Performing Arts Technology program with interdisciplinary studies in multimedia, music production, and engineering.
Oberlin Conservatory (TIMARA program) – Home to TIMARA (Technology in Music and Related Arts), the world’s first conservatory program in electronic music, launched in 1967.
Temple University – Ranked among top colleges for Music Technology and known for strong conservatory-style training.
Other Notables: Johns Hopkins, Carnegie Mellon, Brown University, University of Maryland–Baltimore County (UMBC), and Loyola University New Orleans are recognized for music tech programs or interdisciplinary strengths.
What It Takes to Get In
Competitive Admissions Elements:
Auditions or Portfolios
Many programs require performance auditions (instrument, voice) or portfolios showcasing music production, composition, or sound design skills.
Kent State University expects an audition or portfolio plus music theory and keyboard placement tests.
At UMass Lowell, entrance to music programs requires an audition plus a 3-piece original composition portfolio for media-related majors.
Academic Record
A solid GPA is often required; for example, AIMM (Associate-level) needs minimum 2.0 GPA or GED equivalent.
Atlanta Institute of Music & Media
Many universities require general university-level admission (transcripts, standardized tests, recommendation letters).
Written Components
Temple University asks for a written statement of goals (1–2 pages) explaining how the Music Technology degree aligns with your aims.
Test Scores & Recommendations
SAT/ACT or their alternatives may be required, alongside at least one recommendation letter.
Real-World Insights from Students
“Most music schools have a prescreening round … where they evaluate your portfolio before they let you audition.”
— Reddit share of applying to music programs
“Even if you only used GarageBand and have modest equipment—if you have a good GPA and test scores, you can still get into a good music production program.”
— Reddit user on accessible portfolios
This illustrates that while top-tier programs can be selective, your creativity and academic readiness still matter—regardless of gear.
Hope this helps you ...Good Luck!
Top Colleges for Music Technology Programs
Several institutions consistently stand out in music technology for their innovation, facilities, and alumni success:
Berklee College of Music (Boston, MA) – Offers an acclaimed Electronic Production and Design major that emphasizes sound design and electronic composition.
New York University (NYU), Steinhardt School – Provides a Bachelor of Music in Music Technology, covering audio engineering, computer music programming, and interactive applications.
University of Southern California (USC), Thornton – Features a Music Production program with emphasis on digital signal processing and synthesis.
Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech) – Boasts a robust Music Technology program with courses in sound synthesis, audio signal processing, and digital instrument development.
University of Michigan (Ann Arbor) – Houses a strong Performing Arts Technology program with interdisciplinary studies in multimedia, music production, and engineering.
Oberlin Conservatory (TIMARA program) – Home to TIMARA (Technology in Music and Related Arts), the world’s first conservatory program in electronic music, launched in 1967.
Temple University – Ranked among top colleges for Music Technology and known for strong conservatory-style training.
Other Notables: Johns Hopkins, Carnegie Mellon, Brown University, University of Maryland–Baltimore County (UMBC), and Loyola University New Orleans are recognized for music tech programs or interdisciplinary strengths.
What It Takes to Get In
Competitive Admissions Elements:
Auditions or Portfolios
Many programs require performance auditions (instrument, voice) or portfolios showcasing music production, composition, or sound design skills.
Kent State University expects an audition or portfolio plus music theory and keyboard placement tests.
At UMass Lowell, entrance to music programs requires an audition plus a 3-piece original composition portfolio for media-related majors.
Academic Record
A solid GPA is often required; for example, AIMM (Associate-level) needs minimum 2.0 GPA or GED equivalent.
Atlanta Institute of Music & Media
Many universities require general university-level admission (transcripts, standardized tests, recommendation letters).
Written Components
Temple University asks for a written statement of goals (1–2 pages) explaining how the Music Technology degree aligns with your aims.
Test Scores & Recommendations
SAT/ACT or their alternatives may be required, alongside at least one recommendation letter.
Real-World Insights from Students
“Most music schools have a prescreening round … where they evaluate your portfolio before they let you audition.”
— Reddit share of applying to music programs
“Even if you only used GarageBand and have modest equipment—if you have a good GPA and test scores, you can still get into a good music production program.”
— Reddit user on accessible portfolios
This illustrates that while top-tier programs can be selective, your creativity and academic readiness still matter—regardless of gear.