Sound Art
The Sound Art Master of Arts program at Columbia University is a two-year, interdisciplinary graduate degree designed for artists who aim to explore sound as a central component of their creative practice. The program provides a platform for students to critically investigate the intersections of audio, space, performance, and media, blending studio-based exploration with theoretical study. Students develop their own sonic vocabulary by working with a variety of tools and techniques, including analog electronics, field recording, spatial audio, and software-based production. The curriculum fosters artistic independence while also promoting collaboration across disciplines such as music, visual arts, and architecture.
With access to Columbia’s renowned Computer Music Center, students are immersed in a vibrant research and production environment supported by expert faculty and advanced technological resources. The program encourages experimentation and conceptual depth, allowing students to challenge conventional boundaries of art and sound. Situated in New York City, the program offers unmatched opportunities to connect with leading artists, institutions, and performance venues. Through public exhibitions, seminars, and critical discourse, students refine their practice and gain exposure to the contemporary sound art landscape. This program serves as both an incubator for new ideas and a foundation for long-term artistic careers.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Sound Art
- Degree Type: Master of Arts
- Duration: 2 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 17 January 2026
- Location: Columbia University, United States
- Field of Study: Music
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations of Sonic Practice
- Critical Listening and Aural Perception
- Sound Art Studio I
- History of Experimental Music and Audio Art
- Audio Technology and Production Techniques
Semester 2 – Spatial Exploration and Media Integration
- Sound and Space: Site-Specific Practices
- Studio II: Interactive and Media Art
- Seminar in Media Theory and Sonic Culture
- Collaborative Project Development
Semester 3 – Research and Artistic Direction
- Studio III: Advanced Sound Installation
- Audio Programming and Systems Design
- Field Recording and Sound Mapping
- Exhibition Methods and Professional Practice
Semester 4 – Thesis and Public Presentation
- Independent Thesis Project
- Critical Writing and Artistic Documentation
- Final Exhibition and Portfolio Development
- Seminar: Reflection and Peer Review
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Sound Art MA program pursue diverse careers in contemporary art, interactive media, experimental music, and installation design, working both independently and within creative teams. Many exhibit their work in museums, galleries, and sound festivals, or collaborate with professionals in film, theater, and architecture to design immersive audio environments. Others take on roles in audio production, sound research, or curatorial practice, contributing to the development and presentation of sound-based art. The program also prepares students for teaching, residency programs, and advanced academic research in sonic arts or interdisciplinary media. Columbia’s strong institutional network and its location in New York City give graduates access to valuable professional connections, public platforms, and global visibility for their artistic endeavors.
Why Choose This Program
This program is a compelling choice for artists who want to engage deeply with sound as a primary artistic material, supported by academic structure and creative freedom. Columbia University provides an intellectually rich and technically advanced environment where students can explore both the conceptual and practical dimensions of sound art. The curriculum emphasizes studio experimentation, theoretical inquiry, and public engagement, allowing for the development of a unique artistic voice. Being in New York City amplifies the experience through access to an international art scene, cutting-edge exhibitions, and interdisciplinary collaborations. For those seeking to redefine their relationship with sound and create work that resonates in both gallery and experimental contexts, this program offers a rare and meaningful foundation.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 212 854 1754
Email: admissions@columbia.edu
Address: University of Columbia, Admissions Office, New York, NY, United States
