Considering Berklee Online for music education? Having experienced Berklee College of Music in Boston and knowing many who have taken Berklee Online courses, I can offer some insights. The online programs largely utilize the same curriculum as their on-campus counterparts and are even taught by some of the same esteemed professors. For those focused on truly learning and deepening their technical understanding of music theory and practice, Berklee Online presents a significant value proposition. Many of my peers who chose this path have expressed satisfaction with the quality of education they received for the cost.
While I haven’t personally encountered specific Bachelor’s degree prerequisites for individual courses, policies at Berklee can sometimes be nuanced. It’s always advisable to contact them directly to discuss your specific situation, as they are often willing to make exceptions. My own experience with Berklee’s curriculum was transformative; it is genuinely top-tier. Complex musical concepts became ingrained, and I still regularly refer back to my course materials for refreshers.
Of course, the immersive experience of attending Berklee in person offers unique advantages, which is why I still value my time on campus, especially before the shift towards pandemic-era online learning. However, if your primary goal is to acquire knowledge and expand your musical skillset, Berklee Online is an excellent and cost-effective choice. While you can find some Berklee textbooks independently, the structured learning environment of an online course, guided by an instructor, is incredibly beneficial. Certain musical concepts are far more easily grasped through interactive instruction than through solitary textbook study. In my experience, Berklee’s Harmony and Ear Training departments stand out as particularly strong, with exceptional professors.
