This proposal requests funding to upgrade and update critical audio production technology supporting undergraduate Audio Production and Master of Fine Arts programs in the Department of Recording Industry, serving approximately 600 students.
The Audio Production major encompasses four core areas: Sound Reinforcement, Studio Recording and Mixing, Electronic Music, and Sound for Film and Broadcasting. As hands-on, media-intensive programs preparing students for careers in live entertainment and audio production, maintaining current and reliable technology is essential to delivering a high-quality, industry-relevant education.
Requested equipment will be deployed across multiple teaching facilities including recording studios, an electronic music lab, the Chris Young Cafe classroom/venue, and post-production studios and labs. These upgrades directly support over 20 courses spanning both undergraduate and graduate curricula, including RIM 4190, 4290, 4390, 4440, 4590, 4600, 4580, 4585, 4650, 4660, 4330, 4333, 4335, 4714, and MRAT 6110, 6140, 6145, 6160, 6170, 6210, among others.
The impact is substantial: Spring 2026 enrollment in these courses alone totals 1,488 student credit hours. Outdated equipment compromises learning outcomes and fails to prepare students for professional environments where they must demonstrate proficiency with current industry-standard tools.
This investment ensures students gain practical experience with technology they will encounter in their careers, maintains the program's competitive edge in attracting top talent, and upholds the department's reputation for excellence in audio production education.
Note: If TAF committee rankings are such that this proposal cannot be funded in full, the nature of the proposed equipment is such that partial funding could still be useful and accepted.
