Technology became an integral part of many art fields, and music is no different.

Many positions in the music industry require in-depth knowledge of sophisticated digital tools and programs – and some of them even require a music technology degree.

Therefore, many aspiring producers and musicians decide to enroll in a music technology study program.

So in today’s article, we overview the best music technology degree schools.

All of these schools will equip you with the skills and knowledge necessary to enter the field. 

1. Berklee College of Music

Berklee College of Music is widely regarded as one of the best music schools in the world. 

Located in Boston, Berklee is known for yielding great results with their students – their alumni earned 310 Grammy Awards and other prestigious awards in the industry.

Also, Berklee is focused on more contemporary music styles and it’s therefore ideal for students interested in entering the music industry.

They offer many degree programs related to music technology, including:

• Bachelor of Music in Independent Recording and Production 
• Bachelor of Music in Music Production and Engineering
• Minor in Recording and Production for Musicians
• Specialization in Audio Post-Production
• Specialization in Commercial Record Production

Berklee students have an opportunity to attend some of the best audio engineering classes in the US and learn and practice in their state-of-the-art facilities.

And for those interested in distance learning, Berklee offers online music degree programs (Berklee Online) and online certificate programs at the professional or advanced professional level. 

2. New York University 

New York University is another top US school that offers music technology courses.

The Institute offers both Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees. 

And some of their courses include Computer Music Synthesis, Analog Electronics Lab, Analog Recording Technology, and the Music Technology Internship.

This school is ideal for anyone who wants to improve their music production skills and learn how to balance creativity and entrepreneurship.

Students are also encouraged to develop innovative ideas, work collaboratively, and assume leadership roles in the business of creating and selling recorded music.

Moreover, students are taught to develop business, creative, and intellectual skills necessary for their success in the field.

3. Carnegie Mellon University

When it comes to outstanding music schools in the US, Carnegie Mellon University also comes to mind.

This Pittsburgh-based university offers a Music and Technology Bachelor of Science program.

The program is created as a joint project between the School of Music, the School of Computer Science, and the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering. 

Courses cover many relevant topics, including recording technology, audio engineering, computer music, music composition, music performance, music theory, and Pro-Tools.

Carnegie Mellon University also offers a Master of Science in music and technology focused on composition or performance, computer music systems, and instrument design. 

4. University of Michigan at Ann Arbor

University of Michigan at Ann Arbor is another university with music technology classes worthy of consideration.

It’s located in Ann Arbor, a town known for its vibrant arts scene and culture.

The school has a Performing Arts Technology area of study, featuring three degrees you might be interested in: 

• Bachelor of Fine Arts in Performing Arts Technology
• Bachelor of Music in Music & Technology
• Bachelor of Science in Sound Engineering

University of Michigan at Ann Arbor is an excellent choice for students who want to explore different music-related courses and topics.

And it’s ideal for anyone wishing to enter the music industry after their studies.

5. Brown University

Brown University is a private Ivy League research university in Providence, Rhode Island, and it’s one of the leading research universities in the country.

And although it’s not known for music technology degree programs, it’s actually a good place to look into if you’re interested in music and tech.

The Department of Music at Brown offers a wide range of music-related courses, including music production, sound art, multimedia work, and sound engineering. 

And their students have access to excellent facilities and courses taught by world-class faculty.

6. USC Thornton School of Music

Thornton School of Music is a conservatory-style music school housed at the University of Southern California.

It’s also regarded as one of the world’s best music schools, offering a variety of music degree programs.

Located in Los Angeles, this school is ideal for students who want to make connections and enter the music industry.

And their Music Technology programs are best for those interested in integrating digital music production with other industry disciplines such as composition, performing, and live recording of acoustic instruments.

The school offers many programs that blend art and technology, but it also has courses focused on styles like jazz, classical, and earlier forms of music.

And thanks to its location, Thornton provides its students close proximity to the world’s best entertainment centers and recording studios.

7. NYU Steinhardt

If you want to get a degree in music technology, you should also check out NYU Steinhardt.

NYU Steinhardt is one of the industry leaders in technology, teaching, and research, and it has a reputation for being one of the top-performing schools for music production and audio engineering in the US.

NYU/Steinhardt offers:

• Bachelor of Music (B.M.)
• Master of Music (M.M.)
• Ph.D. in Music Technology

They also have a Tonmeister advanced certificate for graduate students. 

Moreover, the school has state-of-the-art facilities, including the 7,500-square-foot James L. Dolan Music Recording Studio.

And since it’s located in Greenwich Village, Manhattan, its students can study right next to famous recording studios, music publishing houses, and jazz clubs. 

8. Johns Hopkins University

Located in Baltimore, Maryland, Johns Hopkins University is one of the leading research universities.

Johns Hopkins was actually the first U.S. university based on the European research institution model. 

They offer a variety of Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programs focused on music technology, including Computer Music, Music for New Media, Recording Arts & Sciences, and Acoustical Studies.

They’re primarily focused on the use of technology and engineering as instruments of the composition, production, engineering, and performance of music.

So regardless of what you opt for, Johns Hopkins University and Peabody Institute will prepare you for advanced work in different areas of music.

9. Oberlin College 

Oberlin is a respected music school located in rural Ohio and one of the oldest conservatories in the country.

Oberlin offers rather traditional programs, such as Baroque music programs, but it also offers a TIMARA (Technology in Music and Related Arts) program.

As they claim on their website, TIMARA is ideal for students interested in a career where traditional musical skills are combined with the exploration of the very latest techniques for musical expression.

So, the program is focused on the application of technology in composition, new media, and performance.

Besides music tech-related classes, the program covers music theory lessons and aural skills courses.

10. Middle Tennessee State University

Middle Tennessee State University is another top choice for students interested in music technology.

The university is widely known for its Department of Recording Industry, and it’s been praised by Forbes, MIX Magazine, and The Rolling Stone College Guide.

Besides having a great reputation, the university attracts many students because of its location – it’s right next to Nashville, known as the City of Music.

They offer several programs, including a B.S. in Audio Production and a Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.) in Recording Arts and Technology.

All of their degree programs provide well-designed courses, hands-on learning, and working in state-of-the-art facilities. 

Do You Need a Music Technology Degree?

There’s no doubt about it – the music industry has changed a lot over the last couple of decades.

The technology used in music production has become more sophisticated, and that’s why music producers and audio engineers need more skills and knowledge.

On the other hand, with digital tools and editing programs, making music has never been easier.

But don’t confuse making beats at home with an audio engineer job.

Audio engineers are focused on the technical needs of the record, and they need to be familiar with different stages of production, especially mixing and mastering.

Mixing and mastering indeed require intricate technical skills; if you want to do it well, at least.

And the same goes for working at events that use live sound and music – you need to be familiar with the equipment, and you need to have an eye for detail. 

Also, music production and audio engineering are highly competitive sectors in the industry, and career qualifications and requirements for audio engineers became more demanding.

That said, getting a music technology degree will undoubtedly help you improve your career prospects and give you an edge over competitors.

So, to find an answer to the initial question, you need to think about your career goals.

But no matter what your goals are, a music technology degree school would undoubtedly provide you with valuable experiences, knowledge, and skills.

You just need to be ready to invest some time and money into your education.

And if studying music technology seems like something that would contribute to the realization of your dreams, you should definitely explore your options.

You don’t have to enroll in one of the top music technology schools. 

There are many great colleges and universities that offer affordable and accessible music technology degree programs.

Alternatively, you can find a good online music technology or production course. 

The important thing is to find a program that aligns with your goals, preferences, and values.

Best Music Technology Degree Schools – Final Thoughts 

If you find a music technology degree school that meets your needs, we’re sure you’re going to have an amazing learning experience.

All of the schools we mention today provide quality courses, top-notch equipment, and world-class faculty. 

Plus, a music degree will undoubtedly improve your career prospects.

That being said, applying for music college is the first step toward achieving your goals and finding your place in the music industry.

You may also like: Best Online Music Production Courses