Sound Design for Video Games

Sound design and music in the video game industry have far surpassed the sophistication and complexity of television and film scores, with new depths of creativity, innovation and a growing fan base in popular culture. Learn how to put your creative talents to use in this exciting and diverse world of technology, and with over 300 gaming companies in the greater Seattle area and growing, music and sound design is in demand. In our newly adapted virtual course, students will train live with established, working industry professionals to learn the various techniques employed in video game audio production. We'll cover an overview of how to compose and score music suitable for game integration, sound design for atmosphere, combat, user interface (UI) and visual effects of all kinds, field recording, editing techniques, best practices, and how to implement audio using middleware and game engines. Students will graduate with an interactive game demo reel, industry insights, and valuable, hands-on project experience to take any resume to the next level.

Learn These Skills and Techniques

Audio Fundamentals, Reaper DAW, Music Composition and Scoring, Sound Design and Effects, Character Voiceovers and Dialogue, Creative Mixing, Layering and Editing, Foley and Field Recording, Middleware (Implementation Tools): Wwise and FMOD, Game Engines: Unity and Unreal, Business and Industry Skills and more.

Audio Fundamentals

Reaper DAW

Creative Mixing, Layering and Editing

Sound Design and FX Creation

Music Composition and Scoring

Field Recording and Foley

Game Engines: Unity & Unreal

Middleware: FMOD & Wwise

Industry Training

Course Structure

Classes are held twice weekly, 3 hrs/ea (weekday evenings) in a live-virtual format. Our structure includes discussion, demonstration, in-class exercises and independent project work with personalized feedback. Students also receive a replay link for each class so they can revisit any material they find helpful to watch again.

Learn with the Pros

SRA instructors are highly experienced game audio professionals who bring a wealth of knowledge and experience. As musicians, composers, sound designers and all around game audio experts, they bring a unique perspective on techniques and the industry like only the insiders can.

Quality over Quantity

By electing to keep our class sizes small (maximum 12 students) we naturally have the time and availability for Q&A and mentorship throughout every class. Students will have their work evaluated throughout the course with special segments for intensive project reviews and guidance.

Applications

SRA accepts applications on a “rolling” or first come basis, so early submissions are encouraged. The process entails an application form, a written essay, references, a recent transcript and a couple elective components such as letters of recommendation and work samples if available. The final step is an informal interview. A $75 processing fee will be due at the time of submission and all applicants will be notified in writing within 30 days if they have been accepted.

Requirements

Students who’d like to begin sound design training will need to already have experience with playing music as a prerequisite, and preferably some training in or understanding of basic music theory. We also require a passion for creativity, a sincere desire to be of service in this industry, being a team player, responsibility, dedication, a great attitude and a readiness for success. Students need to be at least 18 years of age and a high school graduate (or GED) to attend our programs.

Looking For More Information ?

If you have a question or would like to receive more information or request an information kit in the mail, we are happy to help! Just send us an email to info@seattlerecordingarts.com and one of our staff members will respond within 1 or 2 business days. Or, if you'd like to chat, give us a ring at 206-623-7272.

SRA Sound Design For Video Games Course Certificate

Our aim is to inspire lasting, meaningful careers. We believe this process is as unique as each individual and should begin on day one. Our small classes allow us to get to know every student personally, understand their passions and goals so we can provide thoughtful support throughout our program and beyond. Our instructors bring years of professional experience working in audio and are able to offer sage guidance as only the pros can. We are always happy to call on our extensive network in the northwest art, music and gaming communities to make an introduction or help connect graduates with meaningful opportunities in their field of choice.

SCHOOL PROVIDES:
-Educational Use: FMOD, Wwise, Unity and Unreal
- - - - - - - -
STUDENTS PROVIDE (or Purchase If Not Already Owned):
-A computer with adequate system requirements for running software, middleware and game engines. PC's are preferred, however Mac’s work too. No less than 16GB ram and 500GB storage is required, however more of either/both is always better.
-Course Book
-Reaper DAW
-Audio Interface
-USB Midi Controller Keyboard (3 octaves or higher)
-HD Pro Headphones
-Microphone w/ Stand and XLR Cable

Tuition: $11,500. Students will also need to independently procure (if already owned) certain audio gear items necessary for class and project work, please see the “Items You'll Need” pop-down above for a full list. The cost of the gear items is approximately $615 (if purchasing brand new), and SRA also partners with several reputable gear partners who offer special discounts to our students.

QUICK FACTS

24 Weeks

12 Seats

June 13th

July 12th

Real-time Virtual

Demo Reels

Video Game Sound Design