Program Overview

Introduction to the MA in Sound Arts and Industries

The MA in Sound Arts and Industries is a distinctive, interdisciplinary program combining sound theory and history with modern sound practice using the unique capabilities of Northwestern as a major research university in the Chicago area.

Program Overview

• Students interested in music production can take advantage of well-equipped studios and mentorship from professionals working in audio engineering, mixing and mastering, and composition.
• Those looking to break into the video game industry can learn from experienced professionals, participate in game jams, and connect with a vibrant local gaming community through networking events in Chicago.
• Students interested in film sound gain access to advanced techniques and master classes led by industry experts, collaborating with Northwestern student filmmakers on real-world projects.
• Students interested in sound design for theater productions have opportunities to collaborate with the Wirtz Center for the Performing Arts, Northwestern’s premier producing organization.
• Students focused on podcasting and audio drama explore the history of radio, documentary storytelling, editing, and production techniques while enjoying the opportunity to attend local festivals and produce work of their own, interning with producers and broadcasters.
• Professionals already established in one area of sound practice can expand into new media, diversifying their skills and creative portfolios.
• Students with a background in the sciences can deepen their skills in science communication, creating compelling podcasts and documentaries that share research and lab work with broader audiences.

Sound Arts and Industries Degree Requirements

All full-time students take 3 credits per quarter for 4 quarters.

Required Courses:

• SAI 500 Introduction to Sound Studies @ 1 credit
• SAI 501 Introduction to Sound Production @ 1 credit
• SAI 502 Introduction to Sound Science @ 1 credit
• SAI 580 Designing Careers in Sound @ 1 credit
• Summer Experience
  • SAI 581 Internship Seminar @ 1 or 2 credits depending on internship hours
  • SAI 582 Thesis @ 1 credit
• 7 Elective Courses @ 1 credit each (*6 elective courses for students with 2-credit internships) TOTAL REQUIRED: 12 credits

Additional Requirements:

• Quarterly Meeting with EPICS Career Advisor
• Spring Symposium Project
• All students are expected to maintain a B average

Courses

The five core courses of the MA in Sound Arts and Industries curriculum – in sound studies, sound production, sound science, and career development in sound – embody the innovative approach to sound that is only available at Northwestern.

Required Courses (5)

• SAI 500 – Introduction to Sound Studies (1 credit)
• SAI 501 – Introduction to Sound Production (1 credit)
• SAI 502 – Introduction to Sound Science (1 credit)
  • Sound Science Biology
  • Sound Science Acoustics
  • Sound Science Electronics
• SAI 580 – Designing Careers in Sound (1 credit)
• Summer Experience (1 or 2 credits depending on internship hours)
  • SAI 581 – Internship Seminar
  • SAI 582 – Thesis

Elective Courses (6 or 7)

To graduate, students must complete 6 or 7 elective credits (typically 6 or 7 courses).

• Sample electives:
  • Film Sound 1: Narrative
  • Film Sound 2: Experimental
  • Film Sound 3: Surround Sound
  • Art of the Podcast
  • Audio Drama
  • Documentary Radio
  • Podcast Studies*
  • Advanced Studio Production
  • Spatial Audio for Virtual Environments (Dolby)
  • Videogame Sound Design
  • Sound for Animation
  • Sound Synthesis
  • Seminar in Sound Production
  • Sonic Branding and Product Sound Design*
  • Digital Musical Instrument Design
  • Composing for the Screen 1
  • Composing for the Screen 2
  • Electronic Film Music
  • Museum Sound Design
  • Interactive Sound for Live Events
  • Open Your Ears – The Practice of Field Recording*
  • Interactive Sound Design
  • John Cage’s A Dip in the Lake*
  • Musical Media: Music Video, Film Musical, Music Videogames*
  • History and Analysis of Electroacoustic Music
  • History of the Recording Industry*
  • Archival History for Sound Artists*
  • Art of the Soundtrack*

Other Sound Arts and Industries Requirements

• Students are required to give a presentation at a Spring Symposium consisting of work completed during coursework.
• A typical MA in Sound Arts and Industries student schedule might appear as follows:
  • Fall Quarter:
    • Intro to Sound Studies [Required]
    • Intro to Sound Production [Required]
    • Elective [Required]
  • Winter Quarter:
    • Intro to Sound Science [Required]
    • Elective [Required]
    • Elective [Required]
  • Spring Quarter:
    • Seminar in Sound Production [Recommended]
    • or
    • Elective [Required]
    • Elective [Required]
    • Elective [Required]
  • Summer Quarter:
    • Internship [Required]
    • Designing Careers in Sound [Required]
    • Elective [Required]