How do I Choose Between Recording Engineer Schools?

In every major city, there typically is a range of different recording engineer schools available. These post-secondary educational institutions primarily are career colleges, providing the training and resources necessary to obtain a position in the recording industry. There are a number of factors to consider when choosing between these different recording engineer schools: size, cost, placement opportunities, and program length.

The first thing to consider when looking at recording engineer schools is your career plan and time line. For many people, the recording industry looks very exciting, but they have very little information on the different career options and the challenges unique to this industry. Take the time to write down your career plan, what aspect of this industry interests you, and the time and money you are able to invest in meeting this goal.

Recording engineer schools come in a range of different sizes, from very small schools with one class per year to large schools with thousands of students. The larger schools often are attached to community colleges or related programs. Think about your personal preferences and ideal learning environment. Many people thrive in a smaller class setting where instructors are able to provide more personal attention to each student.

The cost of a recording engineer program ranges from $10,000 to $35,000 US Dollars (USD) per year. It is important to note that a higher price does not necessarily translate into higher value. Take the time to review the program description in detail and compare the different options to gain a better understanding of the underlying costs and value. For example, a school that offers a guaranteed job placement may charge a higher tuition than one that does not offer a job placement program.

Being a recording engineer is a skill set that usually is best learned through practice. The opportunity to work in an actual studio is extremely valuable, both in terms of skill development and of making important contacts. Candidates who can add actual work experience to his or her resume usually have a greater chance of securing paid employment than graduates who do not.

The length of time required by the different recording engineer schools varies, based on course offerings, semesters, and the overall size of the school. Take the time to find out if the program is available year-round, or if the school closes down for the summer months. This information can be helpful when deciding between the different schools, as one school could finish much sooner than another.