Audio Engineering Technology, BA/BS

Curriculum

The AET program is designed to study, investigate, and contribute to the art, science, and practical application of audio engineering. Graduates of the program are prepared to seek careers in the application, installation, manufacturing, operation, and maintenance of audio and music recording, reproduction, processing, and reinforcement systems. Students of the AET program complete the B.S. or B.A. degree with a major in audio engineering technology and a minor in a career-related discipline.

• BELL core requirements: 53 hours
• Major requirements: 50 hours
• Minor requirements: 18 hours
• General electives: 7 hours

 See all program requirements

Courses You'll Take

• MBU 1110. Survey of Music Business
  This course is a general overview and a study of the major functional areas of the music business. Attention is given to the theoretical foundations and practical application of current business practices in the music industry including supporting organizations and the revenue flow from music consumer to creator.
• AET 1380 Survey of Audio Engineering Technology
  This course provides an overview of the field of audio engineering technology. Attention is given to foundational concepts, terminology and the use of audio technology in art, entertainment, science and engineering.
• AET 1450 Critical Listening for Audio Production
  The study and practice of ear training as it relates to the identification, manipulation and perception of sound. This course provides a concentrated in-depth study utilizing exercises designed to develop specific listening skills in audio production.
• AET 2050 Basic Training: Use of the DAW
  An introduction to the study of digital audio through the use of Digital Audio Workstation. Study will include foundational concepts in digital theory, computer operating systems, file formats, file management and basic audio processing using both the Mac and PC platform.
• AET 2090 Audio Recording I
  A study of recording technology including the technical and operational features of each component of a recording studio. Topics include signal flow and processing, microphone application, studio acoustics and session procedures. Emphasis is placed on developing logistical and auditory skills.
• AET 2370 DAW Music Production
  This course is an introductory study of the role of the producer and the use of music production techniques required to create recordings of commercial songs using the digital audio workstation.
• AET 2410 Audio Processing Techniques
  The study of systems used to process signals for creating audio effects. Temporal, spectral and dynamics effect are covered. This course provides a concentrated, in-depth study of the implementation and use of systems involved in audio production.
• AET 2560 Sound Reinforcement I
  A study of equipment, systems concepts, design and acoustical problems involved in concert and live performance sound reinforcement. Practicum and live event hours required.
• AET 2600 Concert & Event Lighting Design
  This course is a practicum-based study of the conceptual development and execution of concert and live event lighting design.
• AET 3000 Audio Engineering Internship
  This formal career education assignment enables students to intern at business organizations related to audio engineering technology for a selected period of time. Departmental approval of their internship assignment is required prior to beginning the internship.
• AET 3190 Audio Recording II
  A study utilizing the multi-studio complex including analog-digital hybrid systems, advanced microphone and signal processing techniques, gain structure, automated mixing operations, session procedures and the roles of the lead and assistant recording engineer. The application of auditory skills is emphasized.
• AET 3220 Computer Programming for Audio Engineering
  An introduction to computer programming, algorithm development and digital signal processing for audio engineering.
• AET 3260 Audio Electronics and Maintenance I
  This course is an introduction to basic electronic circuitry as related to the function, troubleshooting, maintenance and repair of electronic components. (Lab hours required).
• AET 3370 Master Production
  This course is an advanced study of the role of the producer and the use of music production techniques required to create a master recording. Lab hours required.
• AET 3560 Sound Reinforcement II
  An advanced study of sound reinforcement as applied to live sound engineering performed in multiple venues. Emphasis is placed on knowledge and application of theory, tools and techniques used to manage sound in professional concert situations. Practicum and live event hours are required.
• AET 3570 Tour Production
  A practicum based study of tour-support personnel and their responsibilities including pre-production planning, technical coordination, transportation logistics and the associated contracts and organizational paperwork. Special emphasis is placed on the role of the “Production” and “Tour” manager. Lab hours required.
• AET 3790 Recording Workshop
  This course is an intensive study of microphone design and recording techniques used in the studio environment. Course of study includes a research project in microphone technology and application. Lab hours required.
• AET 4015 AET Senior Capstone
  This course is a culminating experience in the major, which also addresses the goals for the Senior Capstone as defined in the course description for BEL 4015. These goals include reflection on the students’ whole educational experiences and on their transition from the university setting to post-graduation.
• AET 4120 Audio Mastering
  The study and practice of audio processing related to the replication and distribution of audio-based product(s) such as audio / video disk manufacturing and digital file transfers. This course provides concentrated in-depth study and practice designed to develop skills utilized in the final stage of audio preparation before mass distribution.
• AET 4210 Restoration and Forensic Audio
  This course provides an exploration of audio analysis, enhancement, restoration and retrieval for archival purposes and services rendered to law enforcement agencies.
• AET 4220 Audio Software Development
  A study of the design of audio software using various programming languages. This course provides an overview of developing software as stand-alone applications, DAW plug-ins (VST/AU) and mobile apps (iOS/Android). Students will design software for audio effects processors or virtual instruments.
• AET 4230 Auditory Perception and Hearing Science
  This course is a study of auditory perception, psychoacoustics and hearing science as it relates to audio engineering, sound recording and music production.
• AET 4260 Audio Electronics and Maintenance II
  An analysis of advanced troubleshooting, repair and modification of recording studio components related areas of electronic circuitry. A continuation of AET 3260. (Lab hours required)
• AET 4380 Business & Audio
  A study of the various roles of the contemporary audio engineer. Topics include business and personal tax laws, facility operations, professional organizations, responsibilities in client relationships and opportunities in developing audio-related fields.
• AET 4400 Sound Design for Picture
  This course is an introductory study of the use of sound for picture and the application of audio and studio technology and the study and application of network audio in audio post-production facilities. Post-production techniques of dialogue replacement, music editing, Foley, sound effects spotting and surround mixing are used. Practicum and project sessions hours are required.
• AET 4480 Master Mixing Techniques
  This course explores the practical application of master mixing techniques used in modern production.
• AET 4500 Sound Systems Engineering
  A theory and practicum-based study of live sound systems engineering. Students receive lecture and hands-on based experience with tools used by professional system techs to design, implement, test and optimize small and large format sound systems.
• AET 4510 RF Theory & Applications
  Theory and practical application of Radio Frequency systems including wireless microphones and In-Ear Monitor systems. Coursework will cover setup, frequency coordination and antenna distribution and combining systems.
• AET 4580 Location Recording for Live Performance
  This course is an investigation of “on-location” recording employing practices commonly associated with capturing live music performances of classical, jazz and orchestral ensembles.

Students benefit the greatest by including extra-curricular activities along with their coursework. Be sure to investigate student organizations including the Belmont Student section of the International Audio Engineering Society (AES), the Belmont Student Chapter of Audio Loudspeaker and Technologies International (ALTI) and the Belmont Showcase Series.

Belmont’s Study Abroad and Belmont USA programs provide the opportunity to studio audio while spending a semester in New York or Los Angeles, or while on a summer Study Abroad trip.

The Audio Engineering Technology program is accredited by the Engineering Technology Accreditation Commission of ABET, http://www.abet.org/.