Recording arts technology programs prepare people to produce and edit soundtracks, tapes, and CDs. Students learn to operate and take care of sound equipment. They also learn to record music, dialogue, and sound effects.

Sheryl Crow and Kid Rock, two popular rock artists, recorded a song together called "Picture." Released in 2001, The music video for the song shows them writing and recording the song together. You can see each singer sitting behind a console, adjusting the level of this, the level of that. Did you ever wonder what all those different buttons did, anyway? Wouldn't you love to get in there and experiment to see what sounds you can come up with? Programs in recording arts technology teach you about the ins and outs of the technology behind recording.

In recording arts technology programs, your courses focus on teaching you how to operate studio recording equipment. You learn about recording software, microphones, compressors, equalizers, and much more. You learn how to set up instruments, connect amplifiers, adjust sound levels, and record different elements of songs and other recordings. You also can take courses in digital editing and manipulation. Many programs require you to complete an original, creative project.

Most programs in recording arts technology are certificate or associate degree programs. Associate degrees are usually offered through community colleges or vocational schools. In addition, schools dedicated to the arts sometimes offer these programs. Typically, they take from one to two years to complete. Certificates are usually offered through professional or continuing education divisions of four-year schools. In most cases, certificates are offered for people who already have some experience in the field, or a college degree.

In addition, a few bachelor's degrees offer concentrations in recording arts technology. This is most common for multimedia or general communications programs.

With a degree in recording arts technology, you can work for small record labels or large production companies. You can work behind-the-scenes for rock and roll bands or work for an advertising company that records commercials. You can work as a technician, operating and maintaining equipment. With some experience, you can work as a manager of a project or work on postproduction for a musical act.