The sound studies major teaches audio technology, music recording, and critical theory. Combined with a larger liberal arts curriculum, the sound studies major redefines traditional music study (i.e., historical musicology, music theory and composition, music performance studies) by integrating it with the science of sound (i.e., music technology, music recording and editing, and acoustic research). By redefining the study of music as the study of sound, the major examines the entire listening experience and the various societal forces that inform it, including technology, physiology, religion, politics, history, and the environment. While performing musicians tend to take the spotlight, there are many careers that require music knowledge and skill. The sound studies major opens areas of job growth for students in several areas within the recording industry as well as graduate study in musicology, ethnomusicology, and media studies.