SAE Institute's Reputation in the Entertainment Industry
The SAE Institute is widely recognized as a reputable educational institution in the entertainment industry, particularly in fields like audio engineering, music production, and film. Founded in 1976, SAE has expanded globally and offers a range of programs in creative media.
Industry Connections
SAE often collaborates with industry professionals and organizations, providing students with valuable networking opportunities and industry insights. This collaboration ensures that students are exposed to the latest trends and practices in the entertainment industry, enhancing their learning experiences.
Hands-On Learning
The institute is renowned for its practical, hands-on approach to education. Students have access to industry-standard equipment and software, which is crucial in fields like audio and film production. This practical experience is invaluable and helps prepare students for real-world scenarios.
Alumni Success
Many SAE alumni have gone on to successful careers in various sectors of the entertainment industry. This success story contributes significantly to the institute's reputation and adds credibility to its programs. Students often benefit from the network of SAE alumni, who can offer guidance and support as they embark on their careers.
Accreditation
SAE programs are often accredited, which adds to their credibility and the value of the qualifications they offer. Accreditation ensures that the institute meets certain educational standards, giving students and employers confidence in the quality of the education provided.
Global Presence
With campuses in multiple countries, SAE has a diverse student body and a broad international perspective. This global presence is appealing in the global entertainment market, providing students with an international outlook and a wide range of global opportunities.
While opinions on educational institutions can vary, many students and industry professionals view SAE positively, especially for those looking to enter technical roles in music and film. However, it's important for prospective students to research and consider their specific goals and needs before making a decision.
A Personal Perspective
I have a post sound company that has produced a variety of content over the years, including games, commercials, shorts, and long format films and TV. I often visit food trucks that use SAE's parking lot, and until recently, I only had a passing awareness of their function.
Your proximity to the SAE Institute, right across the street from your shop, is a good sign, but it doesn't guarantee a particular reputation. In my experience, I have hired around 200-300 industry professionals over the past 20 years, and not enough of SAE's graduates have impacted my hiring and working relationships to merit significant attention.
It's important to note that this doesn't mean SAE is a bad outfit; rather, it suggests that claims of future employment made by SAE deserve careful scrutiny. This is particularly true for institutions like NY Film School and LA Film School, where I have also seen many graduates. My preference when hiring is generally from individuals who have worked their way up from a college intern or started at a creative place as a PA/runner and climbed the ladder. However, this is not a universal claim among all those who hire, and every institution has its strengths and weaknesses.