Frequently Asked Questions

SRA is founded and run by working audio professionals, engineers, producers and studio owners with multi-platinum credits and decades of real studio experience. Our instructors are engineers and producers actively working in the industry today. 95% of our students graduate, compared to the national average completion rate for audio engineering programs of well under 50%. Our teaching model is based on quality for the student first. We incorporate small class sizes, hands-on training with real world scenarios, individual support sessions and meaningful project work. The combination of all these things makes us pretty rare in the world of education.

SRA offers certificate programs with a specialized technical focus. Unlike degree programs that require years of generalized studies, our certificates are a modern fast track to a working career in audio. You focus entirely on your craft and complete your education in a fraction of the time.

Audio Engineering Level 1 and Level 2 are both typically offered twice yearly. Please visit seattlerecordingarts.com for the latest information on start dates. Private Instruction sessions are available on a flexible schedule and can begin immediately.

Recording Engineer, Mixing Engineer, Mastering Engineer, Music Producer, Front of House Engineer, Monitor Engineer, Post Production (film/TV/commercials), Game Audio and Sound Design, Podcast and Broadcasting, Music Publishing and Licensing, Beat Production.

By keeping our class sizes small we get to know each student personally and provide thoughtful career guidance throughout the program and beyond. As working industry professionals, our instructors bring years of real experience and are able to offer insightful, honest support. We're also happy to call on our extensive network in the PNW to make introductions and help connect graduates with meaningful opportunities as they arise.

It's important to understand that audio is a service-based, relationship-based industry. Work typically flows project to project and longevity comes to those who stay active, network and build community over time. Because we know how important this is, our Level 1 program includes dedicated business and industry training to help students understand how to both seize and create opportunity, a skill that is equally as important as technical knowledge when it comes to building long term success. In Level 2, students gain this understanding organically through real world session work with artists.

SRA is also proud to gift Grammy U memberships to our Audio Engineering Level 2 students as an additional support. Grammy U is the Recording Academy's program for emerging music professionals, providing access to high-profile industry events, networking mixers, mentorship opportunities and panels throughout the year, both locally and nationally. Membership lasts four years past graduation, giving students a valuable industry connection long after they leave the program.

Over the last five years, 95% of SRA students have completed and passed their course. Our instructors get to know each student personally and are sincerely vested in their success, helping them collectively and individually. The care and attention we provide is unprecedented compared to other schools, and it shows in our numbers.

We do not accept federal funding such as FAFSA at this time. We do accept Chapter 31 benefits for veterans. The VA process can take 2-3 months so we recommend applying early. Payment plan options are also available through our partnership with Tuition Options for students taking Audio Engineering Level 2.

SRA is an Eligible Training Provider (ETP) through Worksource Washington's Career Bridge program. Individuals who have recently received unemployment benefits may qualify for paid retraining through this program. Please contact a Worksource counselor to discuss your eligibility. More information at worksourcewa.com and careerbridge.wa.gov.