Best Music Production Degree Programs in the U.S. (2025)

Pursuing a bachelor's degree in music production provides a comprehensive understanding of musical and recording equipment.

In addition to learning the technical aspects, enrolling in one of the best music production degree programs in the U.S. enhances musical aptitude and interpersonal skills, which are critical for success in the field.

Students seeking a music production degree can develop a comprehensive skill set and gain a deeper appreciation for music, preparing them for various careers in the industry.

List of the Best Music Production Degree Programs in the U.S.

The following is a list of the best music production degree programs in the U.S. available from accredited institutions through flexible and convenient online learning.

From music theory and audio engineering to studio recording and digital principles, these programs cover all aspects of modern music production and provide hands-on training with cutting-edge tools and technologies.

1. Liberty University

Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia, provides an online Bachelor of Science degree in commercial music and music production approved by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM).

This program teaches music production and engineering audio processes and skills for successfully operating a digital audio workstation.

It requires 120 credits and part-time tuition is $455 per credit, while full-time is $390. Classes are eight weeks long, and students can transfer up to 75% of the total degree, helping them graduate sooner.

2. Virginia Wesleyan University

Virginia Wesleyan University in Virginia Beach has a Bachelor of Arts degree in music production available through distance education.

Students gain production, recording, and engineering skills and prepare for advanced music therapy and music education studies. Coursework covers subjects like music history and technology.

A total of 128 credits are needed to graduate and courses are eight weeks in length. The cost is $399 per credit hour. Military students and veterans qualify for tuition assistance.

3. Full Sail University

Full Sail University in Winter Park, Florida, offers a Bachelor of Science degree in music production through online learning costing $767 per credit. It requires 120 total credits to complete.

Coursework covers topics such as:

• digital workstation technology
• recording principles
• engineering techniques
• digital audio principles
• advanced audio production
• audio workstations

The program helps students acquire a thorough background in producing and creating music and is offered at an accelerated pace, which allows them to get their degree faster.

4. Academy of Art University

Students can earn an online Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in music production through the Academy of Art University in San Francisco, California.

It provides a comprehensive understanding of the music production process, working with the latest software, recording, and mixing techniques. Coursework also covers music theories and the art of editing.

A total of 120 credits are needed to graduate. The cost is $1,126 per unit plus applicable fees.

5. Berklee College of Music

The Berklee College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts has a Bachelor of Arts in music production degree accessible through distance learning. Tuition cost per course is $1,545 plus applicable student fees.

Topics covered in this program include:

• music foundations
• art of mixing
• vocal production
• microphone techniques
• acoustics
• critical listening

It offers an in-depth understanding of creating and producing music utilizing complex digital audio systems and helps students acquire essential analytical and professional skills to succeed in the industry.

6. The Los Angeles Film School

The Los Angeles Film School in California offers an online Bachelor of Science degree in music production that teaches artist management and helps students develop technical skills through hands-on learning.

Courses cover subjects such as:

• digital recording principles
• commercial music production
• DJ production skills
• music business management
• digital audio workstations
• music theory

The program is instructed by industry-experienced faculty and requires 120 credit hours to graduate. It takes about 38 months to complete, and tuition is $5,100 per semester.

7. Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design

The Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design in Lakewood, Colorado, provides a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree through distance education focusing on critical thinking and cultural awareness.

Subjects covered in this program include the following:

• music theory and composition
• digital production technologies
• music business and ethics
• emerging practices
• sound cultures
• music history

It requires 123 credits to complete, and the tuition is $712 per credit hour plus additional fees for books and equipment.

8. Musicians Institute

The Musicians Institute in Hollywood, California, is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music. It delivers a bachelor's degree in music, concentrating on production and songwriting.

This program includes coursework in topics such as:

• lyric writing
• studio production
• contemporary arranging
• mixing essentials
• studio recording
• music mastering

Students learn to write, record, and perform original music and must complete 180 credits. It costs $6,120 per quarter, based on an average of 15 credits a quarter for online programs.

Can I Get an Online Music Production Degree?

Yes, some of the best music production degree programs in the U.S. are available from accredited institutions through distance education. They provide individuals with the right tools, skills, and knowledge to succeed in the music industry.

Students can earn a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree in music production, while others deliver a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree through online learning.

What Can I Do With a Bachelor's Degree in Music Production?

Earning an online bachelor's degree in music production gives students a strong foundation in music theory, production techniques, and industry-standard software.

Graduates with a bachelor's degree in music production pursue jobs such as:

• music director
• music producer
• high school music teacher
• commercial musician
• music composer
• music editor
• songwriter
• music artist
• sound engineer
• music therapist

The key for students is to identify their strengths and interests and leverage them to build a successful and fulfilling music career.

How Long Does It Take To Earn an Online Music Production Degree?

There are various factors that affect the time it takes to earn the best music production degree programs in the U.S.

Generally, an online bachelor's degree in music production takes around four years and requires completion of approximately 120 credits.

The duration may differ depending on the institution offering the program, the number of credits transferred, and the credit hours needed to graduate.

Explore the Best Music Production Degree Programs Today

Whether students are looking to break into the industry or enhance their skills, this list of the best music production degree programs in the U.S. puts them on the right path to finding the ideal one that fits their needs.

These programs provide the knowledge and hands-on training needed to excel in the field of music production. Start exploring now and take the first step towards a lucrative musical career.