is there any point wasting 20 grand on a degree in music production? seems like everyone who works in the industry for a living is self taught and is freelance, where do even apply to work for a production company?
i just wanted to know if you personally make a living off producing? or is it a hobby?
my experience:
i have three degrees. i received my bs in acoustical engineering... (minor in audio post production). from expression college in emeryville, ca
i also have a master of science, electrical engineering (msee) from goldsmith's university, london. (minor in behavioral psychology).
right now, i am finishing my phd in behavioral psychology... while taking open course-ware (online) computer science (programming) with MIT.
i am currently working as an instructor in a private medical school, teaching behavioral sciences.
i am also an engineer... and i work a lot at encore studios (paramount).
the dichotomy:
i have over $150,000 in tuition
...but i also have a fist full of credibility.
it's a lot of hard work but you can achieve great experience and rational discipline while going to school.
the only way to prove to another individual that you are disciplined is by showing them your advanced level of experience. (this matters most to the folks at the hiring end of the stick).
however some people may not agree that the institution of academia is fair or reasonable.
i'm not saying you should do it ...however, it is working for me and millions of others.
there are a lot of great schools out there right now... and if you qualify, you may be able to get a government grant... (i have had a couple).
also,
most studios prefer their interns to be attending school... but i don't think it is required.
i was an intern at EMI for 6 months and they had about 1,100 people lined up for the job (all with college degrees).
if you are looking to start in a studio... you should ask to "sit-in" on productions.
show your interest! engineers love to talk shop. go to NAMM... Join AES/Grammy University etc.
start networking NOW. that way, by the time you DO decide to attend some sort of program, you will have plenty of resources.
good luck!