Is Full Sail University Great for Audio Engineering?

Full Sail University is renowned for its programs in audio engineering and music production, attracting numerous aspiring audio professionals every year. This article explores the key factors to consider when deciding if Full Sail University is the right fit for a career in audio engineering.

Curriculum

Full Sail offers a Bachelor of Science in Audio Production, which encompasses a wide range of audio engineering subjects, including recording techniques, mixing, mastering, and music business. This comprehensive curriculum is designed to provide hands-on experience with industry-standard equipment and software. Students have the opportunity to engage in practical learning in state-of-the-art studios and labs, making the educational experience as immersive as it is rigorous.

Facilities

The university boasts state-of-the-art studios and labs that allow students to gain practical experience in a professional environment. These facilities are equipped with the latest technology and tools used in the industry, ensuring that students are adequately prepared for their future careers.

Industry Connections

Full Sail University maintains strong ties to the entertainment industry, providing valuable networking opportunities and internship prospects. Industry professionals often offer guest lectures and workshops, giving students a firsthand look at current industry practices and trends.

Accelerated Programs

Full Sail offers accelerated degree programs, allowing students to complete their degrees in a shorter time frame compared to traditional universities. This accelerated learning experience can be particularly advantageous for those seeking quick career advancement.

Reputation

While many graduates have found success in the industry, opinions on Full Sail University can vary. Some critics point to the cost of tuition and the intensity of the programs. However, the university's reputation for producing highly skilled professionals speaks for itself. For those who are passionate about audio engineering and willing to commit to a rigorous curriculum, Full Sail University can be an excellent choice.

Career Outcomes

Researching alumni outcomes can provide valuable insights into job placement rates and the types of careers graduates have pursued. Full Sail University's graduates often find success in various roles within the audio engineering industry, ranging from sound engineers to music producers.

Personal Experience

Those considering Full Sail University should be prepared for an intense and challenging academic experience. For instance, I started a class of 194 students in the audio program and only 22 were at the graduation ceremony. The majority of students did not complete the program due to various reasons, including those who repeated units and were not able to graduate.

The schedule can be quite demanding. I encountered one of the toughest schedules: a double 9-1-9-1 class or lab during the morning, homework during the day, and then another 9-1 night class or lab. This condensed schedule was just one of two classes taken each month. Full Sail is not an easy school, making it challenging to pursue a job and education simultaneously, but the intensive curriculum is undoubtedly beneficial for those who can focus solely on audio for a couple of years.

The intensity of the program lends itself to transforming capable amateurs into genuine professionals. However, my experience after graduation differed from others. Instead of pursuing a career in audio engineering, I got a separate bachelors in a different field and used my audio engineering background as a referential bonus to secure VFX work. The skills I gained from my audio engineering program have been invaluable, but it is a niche that may not be ideal for everyone.

Conclusion

Full Sail University's audio engineering program is a rigorous and hands-on experience that can be highly beneficial for those seeking to become professional audio engineers. The combination of a comprehensive curriculum, state-of-the-art facilities, and strong industry connections makes it an attractive option for aspiring professionals. However, students must carefully consider their career goals, budget, and ability to commit to a challenging program before deciding to enroll.