FAQ Conservatory of Recording Arts & Sciences

How will I pay for school?

There is a financial plan for everyone. Federal Financial Aid is available to those who qualify. Additionally, private funding, to include private scholarships, and private education loans from banks and other financial institutions are accepted. A no interest monthly payment plan is available for those who wish to pay personally for tuition. Students can use a combination of any or all of these options and may be eligible for other aid accepted by the school. Our Student Financial Services Department is available to assist students with the details of the student aid process. A student can call 1-888-693-8579 for a personal consultation once they have been interviewed and accepted to attend.

How long is the program?

The Master Recording Program II consists of 41 credit hours over 42 weeks which equates to approximately 11 months. The first 30 weeks (7 ½ months) are spent on campus where students must complete all ten cycles of classes. Upon class completion student will complete 280 internship hours over 12 weeks.

When do classes start?

Unlike most traditional schools who start classes twice a year, The Conservatory starts classes throughout the year. Seating is limited to twelve students therefore classes fill up far in advance. Start dates are subject to availability at the time of enrollment.

Is it possible to work while attending the Conservatory?

Yes. Classes are held Monday through Friday from 10:00am to 2:00pm or from 3:00pm to 7:00pm. Sessions are subject to availability at the time of enrollment. Having a set schedule with class being the same time everyday throughout the program easily enables students to find a job that will conform to their class schedule. It is suggested to limit work hours to 20-30 hours per week.

What is the cost of living in Arizona?

The average cost for housing ranges from $600-$750 per month depending upon size, location, amenities, etc. The Conservatory partners with Gary Hoffman from Premier Locations. He offers an apartment locating service at no cost to the student and he has worked with the Conservatory for over 10 years.

How much study time is required outside of class?

A general rule of thumb is two to four hours a day. More or less may be necessary dependent upon each student’s individual capabilities. With 24 hour access to the Conservatory, most students find it very easy to put in extra hours on campus. Let’s face it, if you’re passionate about audio and you had millions of dollars worth of equipment at your disposal, wouldn’t you be here as much as you could too?

What type of degree does the school offer?

Graduates receive a diploma for completing the Master Recording Program II and several certifications for industry standard hardware and software, including Pro Tools, Logic Pro, Reason, Waves, EAW Smaart, T.C. Electronics’ M-3000, T.C. Electronics’ System 6000, and Antares Auto Tune.

What kind of job will I qualify for?

The mission of the Conservatory is to train students for entry level positions in the audio recording and music industry.

Through extensive training on campus and experience gained during their internship many Conservatory graduates have obtained jobs working as an assistant engineer in a recording studio, mixing sound for concerts and live shows, audio post production (recording and editing sound for movies and television), design and incorporate audio into video games, and A&R work for record labels. Other opportunities include Pro Tools engineer, Studio Management, Pro-Audio Consultant, Pro-Audio Product Development, Radio/Commercial Production, Corporate Audio Technician, Sound Reinforcement Consultant, and Audio Technician.

Conservatory of Recording Arts & Sciences

Main Campus • 2300 E. Broadway Road • Tempe, AZ 85282 • Ph: 480.619.6189 • Fax: 480.829.1332
Satellite Campus • 1205 N. Fiesta Blvd. • Gilbert, AZ 85233 • Ph: 480.648.2506 • Fax: 480.633.0916

All tours are conducted at the Gilbert facility.
Toll-free: 888.693.8579