Below we have listed what we believe to be the best audio production programs in Illinois. Occasionally we will add/subtract audio schools from neighboring areas. (If we like them enough)
For those of you who aren’t in Illinois and are unable to travel, don’t forget that you still have other options. There are many high quality online schools available.
If you have questions about any of the schools, hit the “request info” button and they’ll help you out.
Illinois Audio Engineering Schools
The Art Institutes
Programs:
- Audio Production (BS)
Your creativity is a big part of who you are and where you’re going. To take it, and your future, as far as you want, you need an education that’s focused on developing your talents and putting you on the path toward the creative career that stirs your imagination.
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Vatterott College
Programs:
- Recording Engineering & Producing
- Recording Engineering & Producing with Management
- Entertainment & Media Business with Management
- And more…
Vatterott College is dedicated to providing students opportunities to gain the hands-on skills necessary to achieve their educational goals.
Parkland College
2400 West Bradley Avenue Champaign, IL 61821 United States Tel: +1 217 351 8155
Students enrolled at Parkland College in their Theatre Arts entertainment technology AS program will learn the basics of the entertainment industry. You will study various types of production, including stage and play, and can choose 3 electives including introduction to recording studio, intermediate recording, and industrial control devices.
This program I designed for you to learn the basics and transfer to a 4 year college for your Bachelor program. You can choose to either participate in their degree program or a certificate of completion program. [*]
Future Media Concepts
200 S. Michigan Avenue, Suite 910 Chicago, IL 60604 United States Tel: 312.566.0400
Future media Concepts is unique in that students can specifically choose which classes to take and that their classes are very short, 2-6 days long, depending on the course. As a student you will have the opportunity to learn the basics of music, Avid ProTools, Apple Logic Pro, and Adobe Audition.
The great thing about FMC is that you don’t have to take classes that aren’t aimed at your profession, everything you learn will directly relate to the audio industry. The upside to taking classes in short 2-6 days sessions is that you get the information you need and can expand your knowledge in your own time without having to spend years in school. [*]
Tribeca Flashpoint Media Arts Academy
28 North Clark Street Chicago, IL 60602 United States Tel: 312-332-0707
The Associate of Applied Science, Recording arts program at Tribeca Flashpoint Media Arts Academy is a one of a kind program that can help you get a leg up on the competition.
Their curriculum is centered on helping you obtain the knowledge needed to work in the audio industry as a recording professional. The classes are hands-on and aimed at making sure the skills students are learning can be used in a variety of career paths including live event engineering, sound design for visual media, and in-studio recording and mixing.
Even the general education classes include a curriculum that is aimed at learning more about the media industry. [*]
Working as an Audio Engineer in Illinois
Although Illinois isn’t exactly known for being a major player on the music scene, don’t be fooled. There is a rich music history tied to Chicago and that area of the country.
Looking ahead, compared to surrounding states, Illinois has a better than average outlook as far as audio jobs are concerned. On top of that, the average audio engineer salary is pretty good. It isn’t as high as California or New York, but the cost of living is less.
Summary
There is a lot to like about Illinois. For those looking to enroll in school there, you’ll find a handful of high quality options. Consider the schools we’ve listed above and remember that a solid education is the foundation for your entire career.
Don’t be afraid to travel, or pursue the less conventional route of learning online while interning and improving your skills at home.
All that matters is you find that makes you comfortable and gets you the information you need to be successful.
Keep your eyes on the prize, and stay hungry.
