If you’re considering a career as a sound engineer, you may be wondering what the best path is for getting the education and training you need. One option is to pursue a degree in sound engineering at a traditional college or university. Another option is to learn through online classes and YouTube tutorials. Both approaches have their pros and cons, and ultimately, the best option will depend on your learning style, budget, and career goals. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at both options to help you decide which one is right for you.
PROS OF GOING TO COLLEGE FOR A SOUND ENGINEERING DEGREE
One pro of going to college for a sound engineering degree is the opportunity to learn in a structured environment. College programs typically have a set curriculum, with classes ranging from recording techniques to music theory. Professors, who are often industry professionals, can offer valuable insights and guidance. Additionally, college programs often have state-of-the-art equipment and resources for students to use, giving students hands-on experience with the tools they will be using in their future careers.
Another pro of going to college is the opportunity to network with classmates and professors. These connections can be valuable when it comes time to find a job or internship. Many college programs also have connections and relationships with local music and recording studios, providing students with even more opportunities to gain practical experience.
A college degree can also be beneficial when it comes to finding a job. While it is not always necessary to have a degree to work as a sound engineer, it can give you an advantage in the job market. It shows potential employers that you have a solid foundation in the principles of sound engineering and have spent a significant amount of time studying and training in the field.
PROS OF LEARNING THROUGH ONLINE CLASSES AND YOUTUBE TUTORIALS
On the other hand, learning through online classes and YouTube tutorials offers several pros. One pro is the flexibility it provides. Students can learn at their own pace and on their own schedule, making it easier to fit education into their lives. Online classes and tutorials also tend to be more affordable than college programs, as they often do not require students to pay for tuition or relocate.
Another pro of learning through online classes and tutorials is the wide range of resources available. YouTube is a treasure trove of educational videos on a variety of topics, including sound engineering. Additionally, there are many websites and platforms that offer online courses on sound engineering, allowing students to choose the option that best fits their needs.
Online classes and tutorials can also be a good option for those who are looking to learn specific skills or techniques rather than pursuing a full degree. For example, if you are already working as a sound engineer but want to learn more about a specific software or technique, online classes and tutorials can be a quick and convenient way to do so.
CONS OF GOING TO COLLEGE FOR A SOUND ENGINEERING DEGREE
While there are many pros to going to college for a sound engineering degree, there are also several cons to consider. One con is the cost. College tuition can be expensive, and this is particularly true for specialised programs such as sound engineering. Additionally, pursuing a degree may require students to relocate, adding the cost of housing and potentially causing them to be separated from their support systems.
Another con of going to college is the time commitment. Earning a degree can take anywhere from two to four years, depending on the program. This can be a significant time investment, especially for those who are eager to begin their careers as soon as possible.
Additionally, college programs can be inflexible in terms of scheduling. Classes are typically held during the day, which can make it difficult for those who are working or have other commitments to attend. This can be a particularly significant issue for those who are older and may have more responsibilities outside of school.
CONS OF LEARNING THROUGH ONLINE CLASSES AND YOUTUBE TUTORIALS
While learning through online classes and YouTube tutorials has many pros, there are also several cons to consider. One con is the lack of structure. Without a set curriculum or professors to guide them, students must be self-motivated and disciplined to ensure they are learning the necessary material. This can be a challenge for those who need more structure in their learning environment.
Another con, a major one, is the lack of actual hands-on experience. While online classes and tutorials can provide theoretical knowledge, they may not offer the same opportunities for practical experience as a college program. This can make it more difficult for students to apply what they have learned in a real-world setting.
Additionally, the quality of online classes and tutorials can vary significantly. It is important to do your research and choose reputable sources to ensure you are getting accurate and up-to-date information.
WHICH OPTION IS RIGHT FOR YOU?
As you can see, both traditional college programs and online classes and tutorials have their pros and cons when it comes to pursuing a career as a sound engineer. Ultimately, the best option will depend on your learning style, budget, and career goals.
If you prefer a structured learning environment and are willing to invest the time and money in a college degree, a traditional college program may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you need more flexibility and are looking for a more affordable option, learning through online classes and tutorials may be the way to go.
It is also worth considering a combination of both approaches. For example, you could take online classes while also interning at a local studio to gain hands-on experience. This can be a good way to get a balance of structured learning and practical experience.
Regardless of the path you choose, it is important to do thorough research and consider all of your options before making a decision. Talk to industry professionals, read reviews of different programs and courses, and consider your long-term career goals. With careful planning and dedication, you will find the right path to becoming a successful sound engineer.