COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Science (BS) in Musical Audio Technology at the University of Alabama is a technically intensive and interdisciplinary program that blends music, engineering, and science to prepare students for advanced careers in audio production and technology, requiring completion of all university, college, and departmental requirements. The major area includes approximately 44–48 credit hours focused on both practical and technical expertise, with courses such as Pro Tools, introductory and advanced recording techniques, applied recording, and recital-based recording projects that develop hands-on studio and production skills. At the same time, students complete a strong engineering foundation through electrical and computer engineering courses like electric circuits, audio networks and signals, electronics, digital logic, microcomputers, and signals and systems, enabling them to understand and design complex audio systems. Supportive coursework, totaling around 49 credit hours, ensures a well-rounded academic base, including music theory, conducting, world music, and performance through secondary instrument study, piano proficiency, and ensemble participation. In addition, the program emphasizes a strong STEM background with advanced mathematics such as calculus I, II, III, differential equations, and probability, along with physics and computer science courses, which are essential for understanding sound, acoustics, and digital signal processing. Students also complete a senior-level engineering elective to deepen their specialization. This combination of artistic training and technical education allows graduates to not only operate recording and sound equipment but also design and innovate within the field of audio technology. Overall, the program prepares students for diverse careers in recording studios, live sound engineering, broadcasting, audio equipment design, film and media production, and emerging areas of digital audio technology, as well as for advanced studies in audio engineering or related disciplines.