Studio Production University of Otago

Overview

The Studio Production programme at the University of Otago provides students with a comprehensive foundation in the technical and creative aspects of modern music making. This endorsement within the Bachelor of Music degree ensures that graduates are well-prepared for the evolving demands of the global creative economy.

Students engage with a curriculum that prioritises practical experience, allowing them to master digital recording technologies and streaming platform workflows. The course is designed for those who wish to shape sound, mix tracks, and experiment with innovative production ideas in a professional setting.

Learning takes place through a series of production-based papers that offer increasing levels of autonomy as students progress.

Why Studio Production at the University of Otago?

Students benefit from the exceptional facilities at Te Korokoro o te Tūī, the university’s state-of-the-art Performing Arts building. This purpose-built hub fosters a vibrant and collaborative atmosphere where music, theatre, and performing arts students work together on diverse projects.

The facility provides access to professional-grade recording studios, rehearsal rooms, and technology-rich production spaces. Located in the heart of Dunedin’s creative community, the institution offers a unique environment where academic theory meets real-world application through modern software and hardware.

The teaching staff at the School of Performing Arts provide expert guidance, helping students refine their craft through constant feedback. This supportive network ensures that every individual can explore their potential in music production, songwriting, and electronic sound design.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: NZD 42315 per year
• National fee: NZD 8291 per year

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

Syllabus

Modules may include:

• Materials of Music
• Popular Music
• World Music
• Music Matters in Human Life
• Composition
• Music Production
• Songwriting
• Performance Studies
• Instrumental or Vocal Performance
• Music Ensemble
• Music
• Electronic Music Production
• Contemporary Composition
• Contemporary Vocal Pedagogy: How to Teach Contemporary Voice
• Film Music
• Music in Aotearoa
• Performance in Asia and the Pacific
• Research Methods and Approaches
• Music Performance Pedagogy
• Performance, Health and Well-being
• Community Project
• Creative Project
• Creative Practice
• Dissertation

Careers with Studio Production

Graduates are equipped for a wide range of roles within the international music and audio industries. Common career paths include becoming a recording engineer, studio technician, or an independent music producer working across various genres.

The skills acquired also translate well to audio-media creation for podcasts, film and television sound, and interactive media. Many alumni find success as music industry professionals in distribution, label operations, or as educators within the creative sector.

By focusing on media-aware workflows, the programme ensures that students can adapt to roles in artist development and music technology. The combination of technical skill and creative insight makes graduates highly valuable in the modern digital landscape.