The Sonic Arts & Music Production (SAMP) program at Portland State University (PSU) combines music making with modern audio technology. Whether you want to produce songs in a recording studio, compose music for video games and movies, or perform electronic music live, this degree gives you the skills you need.
Our program is built around three core values: musicianship, experimentation, and collaboration. You will learn how sound works, how to use modern studio tools, and how to create original projects with other artists.
What You Will Learn
In this major, you will build practical skills in four main areas:
- Studio Production: Learn sound recording, audio engineering, mixing, and mastering in real studios.
- Music for Media & Sound Design: Compose music for movies, games, and television. Create custom sound effects and sound art installations.
- Live Performance & Interactive Tech: Perform music live using laptops, software, and electronic instruments in our Laptop Ensemble.
- Songwriting & Electronic Music: Write original songs, create beats, synthesize sound, and produce digital tracks.
No Audition Required: You do not need to pass a performance audition or submit a secondary application to enter the Sonic Arts & Music Production program. All interested students only need to apply to PSU and select the major.
Perform in a World-Class Laptop Ensemble
PSU is home to one of the few university Laptop Ensembles in the United States. You will perform along with top schools like Princeton and Stanford. In this group, students write, play, and improvise live electronic sounds together on stage.
Real-World Projects with Film and Theater
PSU is located in downtown Portland, a city filled with music, film, and art. You will collaborate directly with students in PSU's School of Film and Theater Department. You get real experience creating movie scores, theater sound design, and media installations before you graduate.
Build a Professional Portfolio
Every production class you take helps you build a job-ready portfolio. By the time you graduate, you will have a collection of real work to show future clients and employers, including:
- Finished studio recordings and song mixes
- Original film scores and audio for media
- Live sound performance recordings
- Custom sound design projects
Accredited and Recognized Excellence
PSU music programs are fully accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM). PSU is also an official All-Steinway School.
Graduates work in music, entertainment, media, and technology. Many alumni launch successful freelance businesses, while others work for creative companies.
Popular Career Paths
- Music Production & Studio Work: Recording engineer, mixing engineer, audio mastering technician, music producer.
- Film, Gaming & Media: Video game audio designer, film composer, TV sound designer, A/V technician.
- Live Sound & Events: Live sound engineer, concert venue technician, DJ, live electronic performer.
- Music Business & Entrepreneurship: Independent studio owner, creative media consultant, freelance artist, digital content creator.
- Arts & Education: Sound art installer, community music director, audio educator.
Graduate School Pathways
If you want to teach at a college or do experimental sound research, this degree prepares you for Master of Music (M.M.) or Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.) programs in fields like:
- Music Technology & Digital Media
- Electronic Music & Sonic Arts
- Film Scoring & Composition
Next Steps: Start Your Journey at PSU
Ready to turn your passion for sound into a career? Take the next step today: apply to Portland State University or schedule a campus & School of Music & Theater Tour.