Students in the Bachelor of Science in Music Engineering (MUE) and Bachelor of Science in Audio Technology (AUDT) programs share a passion for the technical aspects of music processing, audio production, and sound and recording. Both degrees are designed to prepare students for a wide range of careers in the audio industry, including audio hardware/software development, Artificial Intelligence (AI) in music and audio, sound design, and music production. The primary difference between the two degrees lies in the required skill level in music performance, the audition process, and access to certain FSOM facilities.
Comparison of BS in Music Engineering and BS in Audio Technology Degree Programs
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Curricular Component
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BS in Music Engineering
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BS in Audio Technology
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Audition and Portfolio
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Requires an audition and portfolio submission. Students must demonstrate strong musical performance skills.
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No audition is required. Students submit a portfolio showcasing technical and creative work related to audio.
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Performance-based Courses
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Students in the BS in Music Engineering take performance-focused courses within the Frost Experiential Music Curriculum, including lessons, ensembles, music theory, and performance-based skills ensembles.
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Students in the BS in Audio Technology are not required to take music performance-based courses (e.g., lessons and ensembles). Instead, students will take course work in musicology, live sound recording, and internship.
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Access to Frost School of Music Facilities
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Students in the BS in Music Engineering have full access to Frost School practice rooms, recording studios, and equipment.
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Students in the BS in Audio Technology have limited access to Frost School of Music practice rooms and performance facilities. However, they will have access to Frost studios, including the Weeks Center for Recording and Technology.
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Minor Requirement
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Students are required to pursue a minor in either Computer Engineering (CE) or Electrical Engineering (EE), which complements their technical training in audio engineering.
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Students are also required to complete a minor in CE or EE, gaining a strong foundation in technical fields like programming, circuits, and electronics.
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Capstone and Internship
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The program culminates in a capstone project where students combine their technical, musical, and engineering skills to create a comprehensive project.
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Students in Audio Technology complete a practical capstone project focused on audio production, engineering, or technology applications. Internships in the industry are encouraged to provide real-world experience.
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Practice Rooms
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Students in the BS in Music Engineering are permitted to use Frost practice rooms as part of their degree requirements.
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Students in the BA may only take secondary lessons (for an extra fee) if a Teaching Assistant in the relevant studio has availability to teach
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Scholarships
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Applicants to the BS in Music Engineering are eligible for merit-based scholarships that consider both academic and musical performance achievements.
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Applicants to the BS in Audio Technology are eligible for academic-based scholarships but are not considered for Frost School merit-based music scholarships.
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Additional Details:
Both the BS in Music Engineering and the BS in Audio Technology offer students robust opportunities for hands-on learning, internships, and engagement with cutting-edge audio technology. The key distinction between the two programs lies in the performance and music core aspects. The BS in Music Engineering integrates technical training with musical performance, and is for students who wish to balance both music and engineering disciplines. In contrast, the BS in Audio Technology is tailored for students who are more focused on the technical aspects of audio engineering without the need for high-level musical performance skills. Instead of performance requirements, students in Audio Technology engage with courses in musicology and live sound, offering a unique and accessible pathway into the audio industry.
Program Availability:
The BS in Audio Technology is newly approved for recruitment for the Fall 2025 admissions cycle. Interested students can apply for this innovative, interdisciplinary program, which focuses on preparing graduates for a variety of technical roles in the growing audio technology industry.
