The 18 Best Music Production Schools for Massive Success

Music production schools are a dime a dozen…

However, not all of them truly equip you with the right tools, knowledge, and opportunities to thrive in the ever-evolving (super competitive) music industry. 

When you’re an aspiring music producer trying to build a successful music career, it’s key that the school you choose is worth every bit of your investment. 

That’s why we’re breaking down the 18 best music production schools in the game. 

These schools are revered across the industry for their comprehensive programs and hands-on experience, offering unparalleled resources to set you up for success. 

All of the following music production schools provide key attributes like:

• Industry-standard recording studios ✓
• Comprehensive training in audio engineering ✓
• In-depth music production techniques ✓
• Cutting-edge audio technology ✓
• Real-world music business education ✓
• Expert sound design courses ✓
• Networking opportunities with top music producers ✓
• Access to professional digital audio systems ✓
• Strong connections within the music industry ✓
• Financial aid options for those who need it ✓
• Much more that makes them the best music production schools ✓

After reading this article, you’ll have a detailed understanding of the best music production schools that offer everything an aspiring producer could need. 

With the right music production education, you’ll not only learn essential audio production techniques but also how to use modern music technology like a pro.

This way, you’ll really thrive in the music industry, music business, and audio engineering fields once you’re done with school.

Remember, it’s all about enhancing your technical skills and staying ahead in this competitive field, so choosing the right school is SUPER important.

Side note, it’s very possible to excel without a music production degree, there’s no doubt about it 一 but it might be a more strategic choice because most places require some sort of degree or certificate.

So, let’s dive in…

#1. Berklee College of Music (Boston, MA)

Berklee College of Music is one of the best music production schools globally, offering immersive programs in music production, audio engineering, and the music business. 

Students have access to professional recording studios, cutting-edge music technology, and real-world production techniques that prepare them for the music industry. 

With famous/notable alumni, including Quincy Jones and John Mayer, Berklee’s reputation for producing top-tier music producers is unmatched. 

Berklee College of Music provides extensive music production education through both undergraduate and graduate degrees 一 dealer’s choice.

If you’re looking for the best of the best, Berklee College of Music is certainly up there, there’s no doubt about it.

#2. Full Sail University (Winter Park, FL)

Full Sail University is renowned for its bachelor’s degree in music production, combining hands-on experience with industry-standard audio technology. 

It focuses on expert training in mixing, mastering, effects, and sound design 一 preparing aspiring producers for the real world of audio engineering. 

Full Sail University offers top-notch music production must-haves, like: 

• An accelerated programs
• Modern recording studios
• Knowledgeable instructors

This makes it a top destination for music production students who are really motivated and will hustle all day long.

Full Sail University is consistently ranked among the best music production schools for its innovative approach​, so certainly don’t underestimate it.

#3. NYU Steinhardt (New York, NY)

NYU Steinhardt offers a cutting-edge music production program that integrates music theory, audio engineering, and music business in a really creative way.

With its focus on audio production and music technology, you’ll receive access to industry-leading digital audio systems and recording technology. 

You have the opportunity to really get intimate when it comes to recording techniques, recording equipment, and the recording business ins and outs.

Located in New York, the program also provides extensive networking opportunities within the thriving music industry (super beneficial!).

As one of the top music production schools, NYU Steinhardt balances creative projects with technical mastery​ for guaranteed long-term success if you really go all in.

#4. Frost School of Music – University of Miami (Miami, FL)

The Frost School of Music is known for blending music theory with advanced audio engineering and music production techniques that are industry secrets.

Students benefit from access to professional-grade recording studios and music technology that prepare them for the competitive music industry. 

Its interdisciplinary approach, combining fine arts and computer science, makes it one of the best music production schools for students seeking diverse production skills. 

Frost also offers unique programs like the Bruce Hornsby Creative American Music Program​, which focuses on building students’ creativity and innovation in songwriting and performance (with an emphasis on American roots music).

#5. Musicians Institute (Los Angeles, CA)

Located in the heart of Hollywood, the Musicians Institute offers specialized training in audio engineering, music production, and electronic music production. 

With a strong emphasis on hands-on experience, students learn in world-class recording studios and develop advanced production techniques. 

The Musicians Institute also provides programs in live performance and sound design 一 making it a well-rounded choice for aspiring music producers. 

It remains one of the most respected music production schools in the country, so it’s definitely worth checking out if you live in California (or are willing to travel/relocate).

#6. Point Blank Music School (Los Angeles, CA + Online Learning)

Point Blank Music School specializes in electronic music production and offers diploma and degree programs in: 

• Music production
• Audio engineering
• Sound design

The school’s flexible programs, available both in-person and through online learning 一 make it accessible for aspiring producers worldwide. 

Known for its cutting-edge facilities and industry-relevant curriculum, Point Blank is one of the top music production schools for students focused on electronic genres. 

NOTE: You’ll also gain access to professional-grade software like Ableton Live and Logic Pro​, so you can really get ahead of the game early on.

#7. SAE Institute (Multiple Locations)

SAE Institute is a globally recognized leader in audio engineering and music production education, with campuses worldwide (anywhere you could think of, really).

So, you can choose the right SAE institute location that’s right for you.

Students like yourself will benefit from a curriculum focused on key subjects 一 recording arts, mixing, and mastering, sound design, audio engineering, etc.

SAE Institute also offers in-depth knowledge of modern recording technology, so you’ll really be covered in that aspect as well.

With an emphasis on technical skills and hands-on learning, the SAE Institute remains one of the best music production schools in the game.

And, let’s be honest, that’s not changing anytime soon. 

NOTE: It also provides flexible online learning options for students who require it​. And don’t sleep on the online learning, it’s just as on point, just minus the hands-on experience, but you’ll get that in the field so don’t worry.

#8. ICON Collective (Los Angeles, CA)

ICON Collective is known for its immersive, mentor-driven approach to music production education, focusing on sound design, audio production, and artist development. 

The school’s highly personalized instruction makes it stand out as one of the best music production schools for creative and technical growth. 

With access to professional mentors and collaborative opportunities, students are equipped to succeed in the music industry. 

ICON Collective is a top choice for those who value creative projects and mentorship​, which I’m sure most of you would appreciate.

NOTE: They also offer classes online as well.

#9. Middle Tennessee State University (Murfreesboro, TN)

Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) offers one of the country’s most respected audio engineering programs, with hands-on training in state-of-the-art recording studios. 

Located near Nashville, the heart of the music industry, the program focuses on advanced audio production and recording techniques like our other options.

MTSU’s bachelor’s degree in music production is consistently ranked among the best EVER 一 providing students with critical skills to succeed in the recording industry. 

I mean, to constantly be ranked like that, there must be something there, am I right?

NOTE: The program also emphasizes music business and entrepreneurship, so you’ll be getting an insider look right off rip, which is crazy beneficial.

#10. Drexel University (Philadelphia, PA)

Drexel University is known for its unique combination of music production and music business information (you’ll actually get a ‘music industry degree’).

It offers students a super comprehensive education that includes first-hand experience through its independent record label, Mad Dragon Records. 

The program focuses on both the creative and business aspects of the music industry 一 making it a killer choice when it comes to the best music production schools. 

Drexel’s audio production program emphasizes real-world technical skills in mixing, mastering, and sound design (really thinking outside of the box with their methods).

This school is ideal for prospective students looking to excel in both creative and entrepreneurial fields​, no doubt about it.

#11. UMass Lowell (Lowell, MA)

UMass Lowell’s Sound Recording Technology program is a standout in the music production field due to its focus on both: 

• Audio engineering
• The integration of music theory & music technology

Students like yourself can pursue a bachelor’s degree or an accelerated five-year program that combines both undergraduate and graduate degrees.

If any of you aspiring audio engineers need a lot of flexibility because, you know, life gets in the way, this one is exactly that: flexible.

It also provides access to state-of-the-art recording studios and audio production facilities 一 preparing students for the demands of the music industry. 

Graduates are well-equipped for careers in audio engineering, sound design, and other music production roles, making UMass Lowell one of the best music production schools in the entire country​.

#12. Carnegie Mellon University (Pittsburgh, PA)

Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) really shines when it comes to its unique Music and Technology program, which combines disciplines like: 

• Audio engineering
• Computer science/applied science
• Advanced music production

You’ll get hands-on experience with advanced recording technology, as well as creative projects like musical robotics and innovative sound design. 

Super cool, right?

Its interdisciplinary approach provides students with broad technical and artistic skills.

So, needless to say, it’s a top destination for aspiring music producers interested in combining technology with audio production. 

As one of the best music production schools, Carnegie Mellon University is renowned for pushing the boundaries of audio engineering and music technology.

It will provide students with some of the most beneficial knowledge around for any level music producer, including brand new producers and those with some experience under their belts.

#13. Pyramind (San Francisco, CA + Online)

Pyramind offers an intensive, industry-focused curriculum that specializes in music production, audio engineering, and sound design.

And yes, this includes both electronic and traditional music production, so that’s pretty cool (and if you’re an EDM producer, it’s perfect).

 

Located in San Francisco, Pyramind has strong ties to the local tech scene.

It offers students access to the latest audio technology and partnerships with companies like Ableton and Xfer Records (you know, the geniuses behind Serum).

Pyramind’s flagship course, “The Complete Producer,” covers everything from mixing and mastering to live performance and music business strategy. 

This makes it one of the best music production schools for students interested in both the creative and business sides of the music industry. 

Plus, its online education also lets you have a more flexible learning experience, so that’s great as well.

#14. 343 Labs (New York, NY + Online)

343 Labs is a relatively new but rapidly growing music production school that rose to power from the closure of Dubspot (both in person and online).

It offers courses in electronic music production, mixing, and audio engineering. 

Based in New York with a strong online presence, the school focuses on providing aspiring producers with access to digital audio systems, such as: 

• Ableton Live
• Logic Pro X
• FL Studio
• Pro Tools
• Etc.

These are are key in today’s music production workflows. 

343 Labs is especially known for its small class sizes and hands-on experience with recording techniques 一 making it a favorite among aspiring music producers. 

Its versatile course offerings (including weekend classes and online learning) make it a very convenient option for students of all levels​.

#15. Columbia College Chicago (Chicago, IL)

Columbia College Chicago is a top choice for students seeking an education in both audio engineering and music production. 

It offers a variety of degrees upon successful completion, from an associate’s degree to bachelor’s degrees.

This music production school stands out for its balance of fine arts and technical skills, as students can study music production while gaining experience in recording studios. 

It also plays up the business side of the music industry 一 preparing students for careers in audio production/audio engineering, music business, and sound design. 

NOTE: Columbia’s strong connections to the Chicago music industry and media world make it one of the best music production schools.

#16. California Institute of the Arts (Valencia, CA)

CalArts one of those music production schools that are famous for its creative and experimental approach to music production and sound design with programs that emphasize the integration of: 

• Music technology
• Audio engineering
• Visual media

Aspiring music producers can engage in multidisciplinary productions that combine music with other arts such as animation, theater, and film. 

The school’s state-of-the-art recording studios and partnerships with industry professionals make it a top destination for aspiring music producers.

Especially if you’re looking to really take over the music industry. 

As one of the best music production schools, CalArts is known for building and growing creativity/technical mastery​.

#17. Clive Davis Institute – NYU Tisch (New York, NY)

Part of NYU Tisch, the Clive Davis Institute is a premier destination for aspiring music producers who want to dominate in both music production and music business. 

The institute offers prospective students access to world-class recording studios, state-of-the-art audio technology, and mentorship from industry professionals. 

With a focus on audio engineering, production techniques, and entrepreneurship, students are trained to become top music producers in the ever-evolving music industry. 

NOTE: The institute is consistently ranked as one of the best music production schools for its cutting-edge curriculum and high-profile guest lecturers​. And, since there are so many music production schools, this is no small feat.

#18. Belmont University (Nashville, TN)

Belmont University’s Mike Curb College of Entertainment & Music Business offers comprehensive programs in audio engineering, music production, and music business.

Like all the other music production schools, it’s one of the absolute top picks in the entire United States (and for good reason).

Its location in Nashville, a global hub for the music industry, gives students the opportunity to get involved with numerous internship and networking perks. 

Belmont’s state-of-the-art recording technology facilities and digital audio systems ensure students receive hands-on training in audio production and sound design. 

Plus, its focus on real-world experience makes it ideal for aspiring producers looking to break into the music industry fast.

Best Music Production Schools: Final Thoughts

Music production schools can really make or break your career in the music industry. 

Especially when it comes to gaining hands-on experience in audio engineering, mastering production techniques, and networking with industry professionals.

But, it all depends on finding the right program that fits your specific goals, style/preferences and, of course, budget and location.

Any one of the music production schools we covered today will successfully arm you with the technical skills and industry connections needed to succeed. 

Plus, help you develop your unique sound, build your portfolio, and launch your career with killer confidence. 

As a special bonus, if you’re looking for the absolute Best Music Production Courses in the game, you’ve got to check out these world-renowned options. 

From beat-making and songwriting to advanced sound design, they offer absolutely everything needed to elevate your production skills to new heights. 

You’ll gain access to exclusive tools, expert mentorship, and industry insights that will push your creativity and technical abilities far beyond the competition. 

Whether you’re just starting or looking to refine your sound, these courses are created for aspiring music producers who want to really stay ahead of the curve.

So, when it comes to music production schools and choosing the right now for you, it all comes down to aligning your vision with the right resources and support because everyone is different.

But, with the proper education and dedication, your journey as a music producer is bound to take off 一 so go all in on yourself and never give up.

Until next time…