Commercial Music Technology
Combining music, technology and entrepreneurship, a bachelor’s degree in Commercial Music Technology from Pennsylvania Western University provides you with the tools and experience necessary for a rewarding career in today's music and media industries.
Enrolling in PennWest’s Commercial Music Technology is the first step to unlocking excellent career opportunities for your future. Earning a CMT degree expands your skill set and increases your career opportunities whether you choose to work in Pennsylvania, across the country, or even around the world. PennWest CMT graduates have gone on to build exciting careers in some of the world’s hottest music cities after gaining their foundational skills at PennWest!
PennWest California’s four-year commercial Commercial Mmusic Technology degree fuses traditional approaches to the study music performance, music history, and theory with modern-day applications, including popular music analysis, live sound reinforcement, audio engineering and entrepreneurship.
Working under the guidance of experienced professors, you will gain proficiency in vocal performance or the instrument of your choice, you’ll learn to read, write and analyze musical scores, and you’ll acquire copious amounts of hands-on experience in audio engineering and digital music production. After all is said and done, you’ll have the skills and knowledge that you need to become a successful artist and entrepreneur in today’s competitive commercial music industry.
This program is for you if...
- You are passionate about music and seeking to blend your creative talents with cutting-edge technology.
- If you're aiming for a career in music performance, commercial music production, audio engineering, or related fields in the media industries.
- If you have an entrepreneurial spirit and are interested in learning how to manage and promote music businesses effectively.
- If you're looking for a program that not only educates but also provides substantial hands-on practicum experience, opportunities for internships in significant music cities, and the chance to earn professional certifications like Pro Tools®, this program is designed for you.
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120 Credits for BS
What You'll Study
You'll embark on a comprehensive journey that integrates music, technology, and entrepreneurship. This 120-credit curriculum skillfully blends traditional music studies including performance, history, and theory with modern applications like popular music analysis, live sound reinforcement, and audio engineering. You'll gain hands-on experience in digital music production, develop proficiency in your chosen instrument, and explore music scores analytically. Moreover, this program uniquely equips you with entrepreneurial skills, preparing you for a successful career in the evolving music and media industries. Whether aiming for a career in music performance, production, or business, this course offers the tools and real-world experience needed to succeed in today’s competitive landscape.
| Degrees, Certificates, Minors | Offered at... | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | Clarion | Edinboro | Global Online | |
| Commercial Music Technology, BS | Program Offered At This LocationIn-Person | Program Not Offered At This Location | Program Not Offered At This Location | Program Not Offered At This Location |
| Concentrations | Campuses | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | Clarion | Edinboro | Global Online | |
| Commercial Music Business | Program Offered At This LocationIn-Person | Program Not Offered At This Location | Program Not Offered At This Location | Program Not Offered At This Location |
Meet Our Faculty
Our faculty are not just instructors; they are mentors, researchers, and industry professionals committed to providing an education grounded in real-world experiences and academic excellence. From engaging classroom discussions to hands-on experiential learning, our educators are here to support and inspire you every step of the way.
How You'll Learn
This program is offered In-Person at PennWest California. An in-person degree emphasizes traditional in-person courses at one or more of our locations.
What You'll Become
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs for broadcast, sound and video technicians is projected to grow 10 percent from 2021 to 2031, faster than the average for all occupations. PennWest California's commercial music technology degree can prepare you for rewarding careers in music performance, commercial music production and engineering, radio and TV broadcasting and mixed-media production.
Career Paths
- Director of Audio/Visual Events
- Audio and Lighting Technician
- Music Center Owner and Entrepreneur
- Audio Engineer
- Audio Visual Specialist
La-Aja Hernandez
La-Aja Wiggins Hernandez ’06 won a Daytime Emmy for Outstanding Live & Direct to Tape Sound Mixing on the Price is Right in 2020.
How We'll Help You Succeed
At Pennsylvania Western University, we prioritize your success and well-being from the moment you join our community. Our comprehensive student support system is designed to meet you where you are, offering personalized guidance, academic assistance, and emotional support to ensure you can fully focus on your studies and personal growth. Whether you're a first-generation college student, returning for further education, or navigating career changes, our dedicated faculty and staff provide the encouragement and resources you need to overcome challenges and thrive. With a wide range of services from tutoring and career counseling to mental health resources, PennWest stands by your side, empowering you to achieve your academic goals and prepare for a successful future. Join us at PennWest, where you're not just a student; you're part of a supportive family committed to helping you find your place in the world.
Pro Tools®
PennWest is one of only a few recognized Academic Avid Learning Partners in the state of Pennsylvania that prepares and tests students for professional certifications of Avid software products.
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Affordable Programs
Tuition & FeesDiscover quality education that fits your budget with our affordable programs at PennWest.
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Success Coaching
Success at PennWestAchieve your academic goals with personalized guidance from our dedicated student success coaches.
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Post-Graduation Support
Life After PennWestWe're here for you even after graduation, providing support and resources to help you succeed in your career.