Video Audio Design Associate Degree

Video Audio Design

Program Number: 102061

Your Degree: Associate Degree

Estimated Time to Complete: 60 Credits | Finish degree in 2 years

Delivery Method: Some Online/Some In Person

Area of Study: Arts, Design and Humanities

Estimated Program Cost: $12,034.45

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Program Overview
As a student in the Video Audio Design program at Madison College, you will acquire skills in:
Pre-production and Storyboarding
Video Production for Live Events
Video Editing
Production Management
Location and Studio Lighting
Post-production Color Correction.
Audio Engineering and Recording
Audio Post-production Editing.
Motion Design and 2-D Animation.
Compositing and Special Effects
If you have a strong aptitude for problem-solving, storytelling, aesthetic judgment, and an interest in art as it interacts with technology, the Video Audio Design program at Madison College is for you. Your instructors have knowledge and experience across this creative field and develop courses that combine traditional and new media technology.
Graduates of Madison College’s Video Audio Design program will participate in our bi-annual employer-attended portfolio show and enter the job market with a professional portfolio showing prospective employers the skills and capabilities acquired at Madison College.
Program Details
Students in the Video Audio Design degree program at Madison College can attend full or part-time.
Video Audio Design classes are offered at the Madison College Truax campus.
Careers
Graduates from Madison College's Video Audio Design program find work throughout several large industries, including broadcast television, state agencies, entertainment, independent production companies, health care, and education.
Prospective employers throughout Madison consider Madison College Video Audio Design graduates top candidates. Associate degree graduates are ready for a range of professional positions in the field of visual communications, including:
Multimedia Design
Interactive Design
Webpage Design
Video Production
Computer Animation
Display Design
Media Design/Production
3-D Design
Resources
Video Audio Design Student Portfolio Show
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Program Video
Program Courses

Here's a sample course sequence that shows how classes for full-time students are typically organized by semester.
Once you're admitted, your full curriculum and sequence—including any pre-requisites—is defined in your Degree Progress Report.
First Semester
10-201-102
Design Fundamentals
In this class you will be introduced to the elements and principles of design. This semester long class meets 6 hours a week, and introduces students to the design elements of line, shape, space, color, texture, color, and typography through hands on explorations and creative exercises. The supporting design principles and theories are taught, along with course materials that introduces students to Graphic Design history, and the role of Graphic Design in contemporary society.
3 credits
10-203-130
Introduction to Photography and Video
An Introduction to the common elements of the photography and videography process. The basic principles of effective composition, lighting, exposure and control of motion and focus are covered. Basics of portraiture and product photography is studied in a studio environment. Specific requirements to video content creation are addressed. Participants provide their own video-enabled DSLR camera. Please contact your program director prior to any camera purchase.
2 credits
10-206-111
Story and Pre-Production
This course explores the steps that take place before the production phase of creating a video or animation. Concept development, creating a shot list, drawing storyboards, and rendering an animatic are the main outcomes of this course. Examine which camera angles, movement, and shot composition best support the narrative.
2 credits
10-206-112
Design for Video
This course introduces students to the tools and techniques used to create video, graphics, and basic motion compositions for digital media. Building on the elements of the principles of design, students learn to design and prepare digital assets in Photoshop and Illustrator and create introductory animations in After Effects. Emphasis is placed on composition, typography, color, and storytelling within time-based media.
3 credits
10-206-148
Lighting Techniques for Video Production
Students acquire practical skills in the use of lighting for video production. Emphasis is placed on analyzing the dynamics of hard and soft light, lighting terminology, color temperature, lighting for shape and texture, and safe operation of professional lighting equipment in the studio and field. Students design and execute lighting setups for a variety of production scenarios, including single- and multi-person interviews and live event coverage.
2 credits
10-206-181
Digital Color
Explore the principles and practices of digital color management used throughout the video production workflow. Emphasis is placed on analyzing color theory, calibration, and consistency between devices from image capture through post-production to final output. Students evaluate and correct color issues caused by various lighting conditions, cameras, and displays. Exercises focus on developing a controlled color workflow and using professional color tools to achieve accurate, creative, and industry-standard results.
2 credits
Second Semester
10-206-129
Motion Design
Learn animation and movement for time-based media, with an emphasis on communication design. Students use Adobe After Effects to integrate typography, illustration, video, and audio files to create industry relevant projects. Concept development, file management, character animation, transitions, and rendering for multiple output types will be covered in detail.
2 credits
10-206-130
Video Production
This introductory course covers camera techniques, live studio recording and team productions for studio and fieldwork. Students will edit their work to produce educational, promotional, and service videos. Recommended that students own a video-enabled camera. Please contact the course instructor prior to any camera purchase.
3 credits
10-206-131
Audio Production
This is an introductory sound production course in which students will learn to create clean, consistent, and intelligible audio recordings within a project driven curriculum. Students will learn sound principles, critical listening skills, and apply digital recording, editing, and mixing techniques to industry standards.
3 credits
10-801-195
Written Communication
Develops workplace writing skills which include prewriting, drafting, revising, and editing. A variety of writing assignments are designed to help the learner analyze audience and purpose, research and organize ideas, and format and design documents based on workplace subject matter and content.
3 credits
10-804-123
Math with Business Applications
This course integrates algebraic concepts, proportions, percents, simple interest, compound interest, annuities, and basic statistics with business/consumer scenarios. It also applies math concepts to the purchasing/buying and selling processes.
3 credits
Third Semester
10-206-142
Advanced Video Production
Advanced Video Production is an advanced course in documentary, short film and motion graphics production. Building on the skills learned in Video Production, this course emphasizes advanced editing and video graphics.
3 credits
10-206-151
Advanced Audio Production
Students will gain skills in on-location and studio audio capture techniques and best practices, hardware and software interconnects and troubleshooting, audio post-production editing, sweetening, and processing, project management skills, and voice-over recording and processing.
3 credits
10-206-162
Video Project Management
Learn practices specific to operation of a small visual arts business. Course will cover areas such as initial setup, legal organization, hourly or project pricing, time management, bidding, management of subcontractors and billing. This course teaches best industry practices in these areas for both corporate work and operation of a small freelance business.
3 credits
10-206-191
Advanced Motion Design
This course builds on and expands the skillsets acquired in the introductory Motion Design course. Students will learn about adding depth through 3D objects and layers. In addition, software toolsets will be expanded based on the latest techniques that are relevant in today's job market.
3 credits
10-801-196
Oral/Interpersonal Communication
Focuses on developing effective listening techniques and verbal and nonverbal communication skills through oral presentation, group activity, and other projects. The study of self, conflict, and cultural contexts will be explored, as well as their impact on communication.
3 credits
Fourth Semester
10-206-128
Compositing and Special Effects
In this advanced post-production course, students will explore compositing through chromakeying, motion tracking, rotoscoping, masks, adjustment layers, particles, and working with practical effects. Learners will utilize After Effects and Premiere to create a wide range of projects, using previsualization techniques prior to development.
3 credits
10-206-140
Video Audio Design Portfolio
Students prepare a portfolio of their work and various business materials to apply for employment. Students are supervised and assisted in choice and number of samples and portfolio layout. Lectures are given on job interviewing and job markets. Faculty approval of a finished portfolio is required for graduation.
2 credits
10-206-194
Event Production
Production teams work to capture and produce simulated live events and concept, produce, and live-stream an original TV program. This course is the winner of multiple WI Broadcaster’s Association Student Excellence Awards. Students learn live event planning, safety protocols, equipment management, production standards, and stage terminology from industry professionals.
3 credits
10-809-199
Psychology Of Human Relations
This course explores the relationship between general psychological principles and our everyday lives. Students are given the opportunity to achieve a deepened sense of awareness of themselves and others. This understanding is applied to human relations at home and on the job.
3 credits
10-809-197
Contemporary American Society
This is an interdisciplinary course covering issues that illustrate how our traditional institutions (such as family, education, media, the workplace, the economy and government) are being changed by global political, demographic, multicultural and technological trends. By exploring contemporary issues, students expand their use of critical-thinking skills.
3 credits
Elective
3 credits
Recommended Electives:
10-206-202
Introduction to Music Production
This course introduces concepts for live events and recorded musical performances. Students will learn in a hands-on, project-based curriculum. The course covers music fundamentals and modern technology, live sound reinforcement, stage and studio technology/terminology, MIDI and loop-based composing, music arranging, multi-track recording techniques, audio editing and sweetening, mixing and mastering fundamentals, and conducting artist sessions. Music business, management, and marketing will be discussed.
3 credits
10-206-153
Audio Project Management
An introduction and review to small business and freelance practices specific to audio production. Course will review areas such as business setup, legal organization, pricing, time management, timekeeping, bidding, management of subcontractors and billing. This course will teach best industry practices in all of those areas and how to operate a small freelance business.
3 credits
10-201-157
Social Media Concepting
3 credits
How to Apply
To Apply
Earning a degree is a great way to advance your career development opportunities, so apply today!
If you are an international student and want to apply to Madison College or transfer your F-1 student visa here, check program availability and complete the International Admission Process.
Application Dates
Fall 2026
Application open
Application completion deadline is August 31, 2026
Spring 2027
Application open
Application completion deadline is January 15, 2027
Summer 2027
Application available on September 15, 2026
Application completion deadline is June 15, 2027
Fall 2027
Application available on October 15, 2026
Application completion deadline is August 31, 2027
Admission Requirements
All materials must be submitted by the application deadline.
1. Admission Application
The online application allows you to save your work as you complete it and ensures fast, secure delivery to our office.
2. Education Completion
Submit official transcripts from the institutions you attended that indicate one of the following:
High school completion (current high school seniors may submit an in-progress transcript)
GED/HSED completion
College transcript or Madison College experience showing:
Completion of an associate degree or higher, or
At least 30 credits completed with a minimum GPA of 2.0 on a 4-point scale
The credits must be completed at a single college and cannot be combined with other transcripts
Any transfer credit listed on a transcript does not count toward the 30-credit minimum
Credits completed at Madison College are evaluated and do not require a transcript
All high school and/or college transcripts are recommended to be submitted for Credit for Prior Learning evaluation.
Additional Notes
Individual courses may have prerequisites to enroll. Admission into a certificate or waiting list does not guarantee eligibility to enroll in courses. See the Curriculum section for the list of courses for the certificate.
Questions?
Contact the Enrollment Center at EnrollmentServices@madisoncollege.edu or 608.246.6210.
Get Started!
Apply to Madison College and take the first step towards your Video Audio Design career.
It's Free to Apply
Transfer Opportunities

Wisconsin Private Schools
Lakeland University
Student who earn an Associate Degree from Madison College can transfer a minimum of 60 credits and a maximum of 72 credits to Lakeland College to be applied to the requirements of the Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Sciences degree.
Out-of-State Schools
Franklin University
Franklin University will guarantee acceptance of Madison College graduates with an AA, AS, or AAS. Madison College graduates will have junior standing at Franklin University and may transfer up to 94 additional credits toward their baccalaureate degree.

Career Outcomes

After completing the Video Audio Design associate degree at Madison College, you will be able to:

Apply the principles of design and storytelling to develop media products and services.
Demonstrate proficiency in the use of media software, tools and technology.
Implement creative solutions from concept through completion.
Communicate creative rationale in formal and informal settings.
Implement project management skills to meet customer and market demands.
Apply effective and ethical business practices.

Graduate Summary

Graduate Report Summary Overview
Count Percents	2023	2024	2025
Number of Program Graduates	15	9	15
Number of Surveys Sent	15	9	15
Number of Surveys Returned	6	6	8
Percent of Surveys Returned
Available for Employment	4	6	8
Percent Available for Employment	66.7%	100.0%	100.0%
Not in Labor Market
Percent Not in Labor Market	33.3%	0.0%	0.0%

Available for Employment
Count Percents	2023	2024	2025
Graduates Employed	2	5	5
Percent of Graduates Employed	50.0%	83.3%	62.5%
Employed in Related Occupation	2	2	4
Percent Employed in Related Occupation	100.0%	40.0%	80.0%
Employed in Unrelated Occupation	0	3	1
Percent Employed in Unrelated Occupation	0.0%	60.0%	20.0%
Employed - No Response	0	0	0
Percent Employed - No Response	0.0%	0.0%	0.0%
Seeking Employment	2	1	3
Percent Seeking Employment	50.0%	16.7%	37.5%

Reaction To Training at Madison College
Count Percents	2023	2024	2025
Student satisfaction Mean (Out of 4)	3	3.5	3.6
Number of Satisfaction Responses	6	6	8
Very Satisfied (4)	0	3	5
Percent Very Satisfied	0.0%	50.0%	62.5%
Satisfied (3)	6	3	3
Percent Satisfied	100.0%	50.0%	37.5%
Unsatisfied (2)	0	0	0
Percent Unsatisfied	0.0%	0.0%	0.0%
Very Unsatisfied (1)
Percent Very Unsatisfied	0.0%	0.0%	0.0%

Primary Reason for Attending Madison College
Count Percents	2023	2024	2025
Number of Primary Reason Responses	6	6	8
Preparation for Getting a Job	5	3	3
Percent Preparation for Getting a Job	83.3%	50.0%	37.5%
Career Change	0	1	0
Percent Career Change	0.0%	16.7%	0.0%
Improvement of Existing Skills	1	0	2
Percent Improvement of Existing Skills	16.7%	0.0%	25.0%
Preparation for Further Education	0	0	1
Percent Preparation for Further Education	0.0%	0.0%	12.5%
Personal Interest	0	2	2
Percent Personal Interest	0.0%	33.3%	25.0%
Other	0	0	0
Percent Other	0.0%	0.0%	0.0%

When Employment was Obtained
Count Percents	2023	2024	2025
Number of When Employment Obtained Responses	2	5	5
Before Enrollment	0	2	0
Percent Before Enrollment	0.0%	40.0%	0.0%
While Attending the College	1	1	3
Percent While Attending the College	50.0%	20.0%	60.0%
After Training at the College	1	2	2
Percent After Training at the College	50.0%	40.0%	40.0%

Location of Employment (related and unrelated)
Count Percents	2023	2024	2025
Number of Employment Location Responses	2	5	5
In College District	2	5	5
Percent In College District	100.0%	100.0%	100.0%
In Wisconsin, Not in District	0	0	0
Percent of In Wisconsin	0.0%	0.0%	0.0%
Outside of Wisconsin	0	0	0
Percent Outside Wisconsin	0.0%	0.0%	0.0%
Employer Location Unknown	0	0	0
Percent Location Unknown	0.0%	0.0%	0.0%

Salary Trend
Salary Trend		2023	2024	2025
Full Time Employment (Related Job)	Full Time Salary Count	1	1	2
	Average Monthly Wage	$3,870	$744	$6,513
	Average Hourly Wage	$22.50	$4.33	$37.86
	Average Work Hours per Week	40.0	40.0	42.5
Part Time Employment (Related Job)	Part Time Salary Count	1	1	2
	Average Hourly Wage	$15.45	$17.00	$34.14
	Average Work Hours per Week	4.0	7.0	25.0

Graduate Employers

Graduate Employers for academic year: 2025
Employer(s)	Job Title	City*
Blank Space Media	Video/Audio Designer	Lake Mills
Self-Employed	Audio Video Designer
Self-Employed	Voice-Over Actor
Stoughton Police Dept	Media Manager/Help Desk Assistant	Stoughton