Study music production abroad

By studying a degree in music production, you’ll develop the theoretical knowledge, practical experience, and creative flair needed to achieve success in the global music industry.

You’ll spend time in studios learning how to record, mix, and edit music. You’ll fine-tune your skills in songwriting and composition, as well as having the opportunity to collaborate with artists on professional projects.

Studying abroad is the ideal chance to see how the creative processes behind music production vary across cultures, countries, and industries. You’ll encounter new genres and styles of music, work alongside international musicians, and ultimately become a more versatile and adaptable professional.

There are various degree classifications to choose from when it comes to studying a bachelor’s in music production. BA programs are most commonly offered by universities, but it’s also possible to study a performance-focused bachelor of music (BM) or a science-oriented BSc.

Bachelor’s programs last three or four years, depending on your university and whether or not you complete an additional one-year industry placement.

If you’re hoping to earn your degree in the US, you can enroll in a bachelor of performing arts (BFA) program. Unlike most American undergraduate programs that require students to study liberal arts modules, students on BFA programs take more pre-professional, music-specific classes.

After finishing your bachelor’s degree, you might want to extend your knowledge by pursuing a postgraduate qualification. Master’s programs typically take 12-months of full-time study or two years of part-time learning. Doctoral programs can last between four and seven years.

A large chunk of your timetabled hours will be dedicated to studio practice and hands-on workshops, but you’ll also attend lectures, seminars, and tutorials. Assessment methods normally include studio-based projects, performances, portfolios, essays, reports, and presentations.

The content of your music production program will depend on the university and country you choose. However, most will include these core modules:

• Music and society
• Studio practice
• Music production techniques
• Audio and studio technology
• Performance technology
• Creative songwriting
• Recording live music
• The music business

The theoretical and practical understanding you’ve developed will help you hit the right note with a range of employers, including record labels, recording studios, filmmakers, game developers, and theaters.

Here are some of the creative and often lucrative positions landed by graduates:

• Music producer
• Composer
• Sound designer
• Recording engineer
• Mix engineer
• Mastering engineer
• Performer
• Songwriter

The music business is notoriously competitive, so it’s vital to get some relevant work experience under your belt. Most universities have a careers advice service that’ll support you with finding placements or internships.