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7 Reasons You Should Consider the Bachelor of Applied Science in Audio Program

There many options for prospective students who are looking to pursue a career in the audio and entertainment industry. With programs ranging from diplomas, to associates and bachelors degrees, it can be challenging to decide which is the right fit for your goals. We spoke with graduates, faculty and others from the SAE Institute Nashville campus to answer common questions and learn why you should consider the Bachelor of Applied Science in Audio program (BAS).

What is the Bachelor of Applied Science in Audio?

The Bachelor of Applied Science in Audio is an intensive practical and theoretical course of study that provides students with the knowledge and skills to shape audio design and creation. Students attending this program learn both the technical and creative components of audio design and business principles of the entertainment industry. This is a hands-on, project-based program culminating in a major capstone project that draws upon the range of knowledge and skills learned throughout the program

What kind of things do students learn in the Bachelor of Applied Science in Audio program?

Students in the Bachelor of Applied Science in Audio should learn to:

  • Develop, plan, and complete a complex audio production
  • Demonstrate the ability to implement critical, conceptual and theoretical principles of existing media to inform professional audio production practice
  • Apply professional audio production methods and techniques in a wide variety of settings using a wide range of hardware and software solutions
  • Demonstrate applied knowledge of professional production principles and methods integrated within a variety of complex audio production environments
  • Collaborate with others to effectively plan and execute a range of creative projects and responses to complex problems
  • Critically evaluate and reflect on the methods, processes and outcomes of creative audio production and work practices
  • Develop strategies for improving professional performance through reflective practice
  • Design and develop software instruments and audio effect processors using a text-based programming language
  • Create custom software to execute a cohesive audiovisual live performance
  • Demonstrate effective analytical problem-solving and critical thinking skills, using the scientific method where appropriate

For example, students take a course called, “Intermedia Composition,” which trains students to use projection mapping software and hardware that is often used at EDM (Electronic Dance Music) and pop music festivals. Deploying those kinds of productions takes large teams of people that know how to create an immersive experience for the audience. This involves projection mapping, advanced lighting, basic networking, and more. So, one of the most exciting areas to explore in our BAS program is how to deliver a modern concert experience. This degree program provides students with this kind of training and education.

What kinds of experiences do students at the Nashville campus experience?

Our campus in Nashville on Music Row provides great opportunities for networking and involvement in the music community. We often host events and guests on campus. It’s important for students to be introduced to these opportunities and organizations as they learn about the industry. Here are a few opportunities that most BAS students experience:

  • In their final semester, students do a showcase event with their portfolios
  • In Advanced Live Sound, students often host rehearsals for Nashville artists
  • Nashville artists are brought in for students to record and work with
  • Encouragement to participate in the AES Spring Mix competition

SAE Institute Nashville has won twice! SAE Nashville students beat out students from colleges all over Nashville.

  • Students help run local events

Some examples include sound for events at CMA Festival. Additionally, students and faculty ran 100% of the 2019 Ragin Cajun Crawfish Boil.

  • Campus visits from professionals like Vance Powell and PJ Morton
  • Before graduation, students plan and host an entire event

They create diagrams and stage plots, do test runs, and then execute the event at a venue. The event is also live streamed via facebook, twitch, youtube, which the students are also responsible for setting up and executing on. The BAS students collaborate with Entertainment Business students to assist with marketing and promotion to turn it into a legitimate event run by the students.

After graduation, what kind of jobs can BAS students pursue?

Turning your passion into your profession can be a rewarding experience that allows you to get paid to do something you love! Graduates of SAE Institute Audio programs will be prepared for entry-level positions in such careers as:

  • A/V Director, A/V Installer, Audio/Visual Technician or A/V Sales Consultant
  • Film Sound Engineer
  • Front of House Engineer
  • Live Sound Technician
  • Media Manager
  • Music Director
  • Producer
  • Production Assistant
  • Assistant Audio Engineer and Audio Engineer
  • Sound Designer, Sound Assistant, Sound Editor, Sound Technician or Sound Engineer
  • Assistant Music Editor
  • Assistant Recording Engineer
  • Board Operator
  • Boom Operator
  • Broadcast & Sound Engineering Tech
  • Studio Technician
  • Professional Audio Sales Representative

Who can apply for the Bachelor of Applied Science in Audio program?

The admissions requirement for the Bachelor of Applied Science degree in Audio at the Nashville campus is a completed Associate Degree in Audio from an SAE Campus or a comparable degree from an institute accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Recent AAS graduates of SAE Institute are typically great candidates to complete their Bachelors.

How long does it take to earn a BAS at SAE Institute?

Students enrolled full-time in the bachelor program can complete the program in 32 months. Students take 2 courses per module with a short break between modules and semesters. Students must successfully complete all 128 credit hours of core audio and General Education courses to receive a Bachelor of Applied Science in Audio degree.

However, when a student enrolls in the BAS with a 16 month AAS in Audio from SAE Institute they can complete the program in as little as 16 months.

Do you have advice for incoming students?

Andrew Wildrick, Nashville’s Audio Program Chair believes “the students that are most successful are the ones that are present in class, communicate frequently with instructors and staff members, and check their email every day. Successful students get to know Kevin White in career services, and they learn to use every studio like it’s second nature.”

Interested in the application process? Learn more about the Audio Bachelor of Applied Science or contact an admissions representative here.

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