Music technology emphasizes the use of computers in music and teaches recording and mixing techniques. Students in music technology degree programs use computers and electronic instruments, such as synthesizers, to compose and perform their works. Music technology degree students often have access to state-of-the-art equipment in computer, recording and mixing labs where they can produce their compositions.
Music technology programs can be taken online or on campus. Associate degree programs prepare graduates for entry-level jobs in the industry or for transfer to a bachelor's degree program in music technology. Two-year master's level programs are designed for students that want to focus on multimedia or music programming work.
The curriculum for music technology students may include such courses as physics of sound, multimedia for the web, composing with computers and audio technology for music. Students also study music theory and piano and take liberal arts courses to meet graduation requirements. Recording studio internships are often available to students during the final semester of an associate or bachelor's degree program. Graduate students in music technology become more involved in original research and advanced studies in areas such as audio signal processing.
Degrees in music technology prepare graduates for various careers. Some go on to careers in the music industry at radio stations and production companies. Other graduates design multimedia projects and develop educational software programs that teach music fundamentals to students.
Students interested in music industry jobs after graduation from a music technology degree program should ensure that an internship is part of the college curriculum, as hands-on experience is a requirement for many entry-level jobs in the music industry.