Overview

The Music and Technology programme at Carnegie Mellon University provides a rigorous interdisciplinary education designed for the next generation of music industry leaders. By integrating the resources of the School of Music, the School of Computer Science, and the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, the curriculum ensures a comprehensive understanding of both artistic and technical domains. Students engage in a collaborative environment that fosters innovation through a blend of theoretical study and practical application.

Why Music and Technology at Carnegie Mellon University?

Established in 2009, this programme is a pioneering joint project that leverages the university's world-leading expertise in technology and the arts. Students benefit from an environment where artistry and innovation share centre stage, supported by expert faculty from three distinct academic schools. The collaborative approach provides a breadth of skills that are essential for development in modern music fields, ranging from audio engineering to computer-based composition.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 67020 per year
National fee: USD 67020 per year
Local fee: USD 67020 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is designed to provide a balanced foundation across three core areas: music, electrical engineering, and computer science. Students work closely with academic advisors to tailor their course selection towards a final capstone project that demonstrates their proficiency in design, performance, or composition. Modules may include:

Programming
Electrical and Computer Engineering
Differential and Integral Calculus
Harmony
Solfège
Recording Technology
Audio Engineering
Computer Music
Music Theory

Careers with Music and Technology

Graduates are prepared for diverse professional paths within the evolving music and media industries. The programme is specifically structured for those who wish to pursue music technology as a primary career, combining musical talent with scientific and engineering proficiency. Potential career areas include professional audio engineering, electronic music production, and the development of new musical software or hardware. By mastering the technological underpinnings of sound, students are equipped to take on specialised roles in recording studios, tech firms, and creative production houses.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Electronic Devices and Analog Circuits

Structure and Design of Digital System

Computer Music

Signal and Information Processing

Music Technology

Electronic and Computer Music

Sound Recording

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-05-11 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-01 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

135

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

102

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

7.5

Prepare for Your English Test

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Pittsburgh, United States

Disciplines

Music Sound Engineering View 115 other Bachelors in Sound Engineering in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

135

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

102

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

7.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Common Application
$75 application fee*
Official high school transcript (please review our Academic Requirements)**
All required standardized testing official score reports, which includes the TOEFL or IELTS if English is not your native language
Secondary School Counselor Evaluation
Teacher Recommendation
Common Application essay
Carnegie Mellon Common Application Writing Supplement, which includes three short answer questions
All fine arts applicants to the Schools of Drama and Music are required to arrange required pre-screen, audition or portfolio review.
All fine art applications to the Schools of Architecture, Art, Design are required to submit required portfolio and creative materials.
Home schooled applicants should submit an academic portfolio/transcript consistent with their state guidelines and a list of all textbooks used.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

67020 USD / year

≈ 67020 USD / year
Out-of-State

67020 USD / year

≈ 67020 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

67020 USD / year

≈ 67020 USD / year

Living costs

Pittsburgh

United States

1148 - 1944 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Music and Technology.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Pittsburgh

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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