Overview

The Sonic Arts and Music Production programme at Portland State University offers a pioneering blend of creative inspiration and advanced music technology. Students develop a robust foundation in acoustics, musicianship, and basic music theory while specialising in contemporary production techniques. This degree is designed to provide the expressive skills and technical breadth required for success in the modern musical landscape.

Why Sonic Arts and Music Production at Portland State University?

Students benefit from access to a state-of-the-art recording studio where they can refine their skills in mastering and live interactive performance. Portland State University is recognised as a national College of Distinction, ensuring a commitment to student success and professional development. The School of Music & Theater holds the prestigious All-Steinway School designation and is fully accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music.

The curriculum emphasises real-world experience, allowing students to build vibrant portfolios through multimedia content development and composition. By working with community partners, the programme helps students establish vital professional connections before graduation. This practical approach ensures that technical knowledge is matched by entrepreneurial insight and creative thinking.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 34599 per year
National fee: USD 34599 per year
Local fee: USD 12999 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum provides a comprehensive grounding in both the technical and theoretical aspects of sound. Modules may include:

Music Technology
Acoustics
Music Theory
Keyboard Skills
Musicianship
Recording, Mixing, and Mastering
Visual Media
Live Interactive Performance
Sound Installations

Careers with Sonic Arts and Music Production

Graduates are well-prepared for diverse roles within the global music industry and commercial enterprises. Many alumni find employment as music producers, sound technicians, or media content creators. The programme also supports paths into sound design, commercial music, and independent artistry, combining production with performance or composition.

Beyond technical roles, the degree provides a strong foundation for those interested in music entrepreneurship, teaching, or arts administration. The breadth of knowledge gained also serves as an excellent springboard for further graduate study in specialised research or artistic fields. Students leave the programme ready to contribute to the growing and innovative sector of sonic arts.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Contemporary Music Theory

Audio Recording

Studio Production

Acoustics for Musicians

Music with Visual Media

Business of Music

Computer Music Composition

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-09-30 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-09-01 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-08-01 00:00:00 , National
Starting 2027-01-06 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-05 00:00:00
Starting 2027-03-31 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-03-05 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

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Credits

180 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Portland, United States

Disciplines

Music Musicology View 379 other Bachelors in Musicology in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

2.5

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

110

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

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PTE Academic

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IELTS

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

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98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

You must have a cumulative (overall) grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.5 when converted to the U.S. 4.0 grading scale.
Meet the English Language Proficiency Requirement. You may be admitted to Portland State University and an Intensive English Language Program (IELP) pathway if you do not meet PSU's English Language Proficiency Requirement. Learn more about PSU’s English language programs.

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

34599 USD / year

≈ 34599 USD / year
Out-of-State

34599 USD / year

≈ 34599 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

12999 USD / year

≈ 12999 USD / year

Living costs

Portland

United States

1271 - 2262 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 Sonic Arts and Music Production.

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

Portland

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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