SJVA Audio Production » Pathway Overview

Pathway Overview

Career Technical Education
San Jacinto Valley Academy currently offers Career Technical Education for Audio production under the Arts, Media, and Entertainment pathway AME pathways are sequential focus areas that allow students to advance their studies in a particular art form and gain pre-professional career and post-secondary preparatory experience at the high school level.

Introduction to Audio Production:
Open to students in 8th–11th grade, this course is perfect for those curious about audio production—whether you're exploring a new interest or considering a future career in the field.

Intro to Audio Production offers a hands-on survey of the many career paths in the audio industry, from live sound and studio recording to audio post-production. Students will learn foundational concepts in analog and digital audio, develop critical listening skills, and begin identifying sound frequencies. You’ll be introduced to industry-standard tools and workflows, including the basics of Pro Tools software, studio equipment, and audio plugins.

 

Throughout the course, students will engage in practical activities with physical gear, mixing exercises, core concept quizzes, and long-term creative projects—all in a fun, engaging, and professional learning environment.

Audio Production 1
Open to 9th–12th grade students who have successfully completed Introduction to Audio Production, this advanced course is designed for those serious about pursuing a career in the audio industry or with a clear interest in further developing their skills.

In Audio Production 1, students will explore focused career paths within the modern audio landscape while deepening their knowledge of industry-standard tools and techniques. You’ll gain advanced experience with Pro Tools, including production, mixing, and professional workflow strategies. Key areas of learning include MIDI composition, remixing, sound identification, and audio processing.

 

Students will also build a custom sound design library, mix audio for animation, and work through hands-on projects such as shortcut drills, processing challenges, quizzes, and long-term creative assignments—simulating real-world studio and post-production environments.

Audio Production 2
Open to 11th–12th grade students who have successfully completed Introduction to Audio Production and Audio Production 1, this advanced course is designed for those committed to pursuing a career in the arts media, and entertainment industry. It supports students in earning industry-relevant credentials and preparing for post-secondary education or entry-level professional opportunities.

Audio Production 2 takes a deep dive into professional audio engineering. Students will build on their prior knowledge by mastering Pro Tools and its advanced features, exploring professional studio workflows, and refining high-level recording, mixing, and mastering techniques.

 

The course combines theory with intensive hands-on practice. Students will complete advanced projects in multitrack recording, post-production sound design, and mastering. Assessments include quizzes, practical exams, and portfolio-worthy long-term projects that mirror real-world audio industry scenarios.

 

By the end of this course, students will be equipped to operate professional recording studios, manage complex audio projects, and confidently step into the next phase of their audio careers.

High School Credit
This course meets the College Preparatory Elective “G” requirement for the University of California (UC) and California State University (CSU) system.

College and Career Preparedness Career Connections
Audio Production 2 is articulated with Mt. San Jacinto College’s AUD 140 course. Upon successful completion of a certified exam, a live sound practical, and a final project, students are eligible to receive college credit, giving them a valuable head start in post-secondary education.

In addition to college articulation, SJVA’s Audio Production program has built a strong professional network across the San Jacinto Valley, Hemet, and Greater Los Angeles. This network serves as a launchpad for students seeking internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level positions in the audio industry after graduation.

Partner organizations include:

  • Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)
  • PropsAV
  • Ramona Bowl Amphitheatre
  • Yucaipa Music Venue
  • Inland AV Solutions
  • Fox Theatre Riverside
  • McCallum Theatre

These partnerships help students transition from classroom learning to real-world industry experience.