Sound Meets Storytelling

The Sonic Arts program prepares students to be working audio professionals, such as sound designers, audio engineers, composers, and more. You’ll learn how to use industry-standard tools to create, record, and edit music, sound effects, and other audio assets that are in demand for a variety of media-based industries. Master both the technical foundations and creative problem-solving skills needed to thrive in film, television, gaming, and immersive media experiences.

close up photo of hand and sound equipment

Why Champlain College?

Beyond Theory: Innovation in Action

Our unique approach to learning puts you at the center of creating real audio for films, games, and interactive media, not just learning from textbooks.

Professional-Grade Facilities

Learn in our state-of-the-art sound studio and Mac labs with industry-standard software and hardware for recording, mixing, and sound design.

Industry Connections

Build your portfolio through internships and co-ops, plus connections with audio professionals in Burlington’s thriving creative community and beyond.

$87,000

According to Glassdoor.com, sound designers earn competitive salaries, reflecting the high demand for their specialized skills.

The Most

Champlain was named a “Most Innovative School” by U.S. News & World Report in its “America’s Best Colleges” 2024 ranking of universities in the North.

Program Highlights

  • Master industry-standard Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) and synthesis techniques
  • Create original sound for film, television, games, and immersive experiences
  • Learn both analog and digital approaches to music production and sound design
  • Develop foley techniques for creating realistic environmental sounds and effects
  • Collaborate with students from film, game design, and other creative media programs
  • Build a professional portfolio showcasing your best audio projects
  • Small classes with personalized mentorship from audio industry professionals
  • Access to professional sound studios and the latest recording equipment
Student mixing audio using professional equipment

Your Career Outlook

Where you might work…

  • Sound Designer for Film & TV
  • Audio Engineer
  • Music Producer
  • Game Audio Specialist
  • Foley Artist
  • Audio Post-Production
  • Broadcast Technician
  • Music Composer
  • Podcast Producer
  • Live Sound Engineer
  • Audio Software Developer
  • Create your own audio venture

Anthropic

Through a new partnership with Anthropic, a leader in AI safety and research, Champlain is integrating AI literacy and innovation into the student experience. You’ll learn how to think critically, work responsibly with AI, and use it to solve real-world challenges. Gain future-proof skills across every discipline and be ready for what’s next in AI and beyond.

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