Music Technology Frequently Asked Questions

What is music technology?

Music Technology at Ball State University is an undergraduate music degree program featuring classes on acoustics, studio maintenance, computer music, multi-track digital recording, and composition. This degree program encompasses many to all aspects of audio production, sound design and music creation. In addition, as a music major, you will be required to take traditional classes covering music theory, history, arranging and performance.

We also have many options for students to participate in a Minor Area that enhances their education. Minor studies include applied physics, computer science and digital media. This multi-disciplinary curriculum grants students many employment choices upon graduation.

How do I schedule an appointment to see the facility and/or talk to someone about the program?

We would suggest visiting Ball State during one of our many Preview days. Lean more here...

Or, you may schedule an individual visit with our School of Music office of admissions. Learn more...

How do I get into the program?

First, you must be accepted to Ball State University. Requirements for admission may be found here....
Next, you must be accepted to the School of Music. Requirements for the School of Music admission may be found here....
A link to answer some questions about auditions may be found at...
Once accepted to the School of Music, and have met with one of our Music Technology Professors for a short interview, you may declare music technology as your major area of study.

What should I take in high school to better prepare for the program?

Certainly, you should take courses that will satisfy BSU admissions criteria (4 years of english, 3 years of math, 3 years of science, and 3 years of social studies). Additionally, classes in music are important to our program (band, orchestra, choir, music theory, etc).

Do I have to be a musician if I plan to be a music technology major?

Yes. Music Technology is part of the School of Music and the College of Fine Arts. Your major area of study is music. At the completion of your studies, you will earn a Bachelor of Music degree.

Will I get a job after graduation? Will you help me get a job?

We think you will. We will provide guidance, connect you to past graduates in your area of interest, act as references, and do what we can to help you succeed. Ball State’s career center can also help to prepare or revise your resume, refine your interview skills, implement a job search strategy, network with employers, and more.

What kinds of jobs are graduates getting?

Music Technology students find employment in a variety of areas within the industry. Jobs can range from sales to consulting, recording to mastering, music writing to game audio, commercial audio, live sound, software/hardware development, teaching, and much more. Salary ranges will obviously depend on the job market at that time and the region, state, country in which the job is available.

Music Production
Studio Engineering
Sound Design
Mastering
Music Director
Music Programming
Game Audio / Music
Audio Sales & Installation
Live Sound Reinforcement

Audio Editing for TV
Audio Editing for Film
System Design
Product Specialist
Audio Restoration
Technical Support
Equipment Maintenance
Audio Equipment Manufacturing
Higher Education Faculty / Staff

How big are the classes?

Classes in the music technology area are typically between 10 and 15 students. If the class size goes much beyond 15 students we will divide the class among multiple sections.

How soon will I get into the recording studios?

This is dependent upon successful completion of prerequisite classes you must take. Your first class is acoustics. Its taught in a traditional classroom in the school of music. Starting your second semester, you will take Computer Music 1. This class is taught in our Music Technology's Media Lab (studio 9). You'll be creating and manipulating sounds in no time. Providing you successfully complete all the prerequisite classes, the first recording class begins at the start of your second year.

Will I need to buy my own computer?

Currently, it is not required for students to buy their own computer system. However, many students realize there is a great advantage to having their own laptop computer to work on. There are several computer labs on campus that are available to the students. The music technology studios are accessible 24 hours a day to music technology students, except on university holidays. Although music technology students have access to our own multi-terabyte data server, many students eventually buy their own external hard drive to use during recording classes.

If I’m buying a new computer, should I buy an Apple/Macintosh or Windows version?

All the computers in the music technology studios are Apple/Macintosh computers. There is one class that uses windows software to program electronic components but this is also done on an Apple/Macintosh running windows software.