Academic Programs and Services

Music

The music curricula give students a thorough academic and applied preparation in music combined with a liberal arts background. Graduates receive the Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree. The curricula are transfer programs structured to be compatible with the first two years of music curricula leading to the Bachelor of Music degree offered at most undergraduate colleges. There is an Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree non-performance option for students seeking to transfer to a Bachelor of Arts in Music program or a Bachelor of Science in Music program. Additionally, an A.A.S. degree in Sound Recording and Music Technology is offered.

Student Learning Outcomes:

Music – Non-Performance Option
Upon completion of this program graduates will be able to:

• Demonstrate knowledge of instrumental and vocal music making so as to be able to make an informed choice of a major performing medium as required by all four-year music baccalaureate programs.
• Demonstrate basic musicianship and knowledge of the theoretical, historical, technological and practical backgrounds needed to understand how music is created, understood and performed.
• Apply knowledge in the areas listed above so as to intelligently choose areas of concentration beyond performance such as: historical research, composition/arranging, education and recording/music technology.

Music – Performance Option
Upon completion of this program graduates will be able to:

• Demonstrate sufficient command of their major performing medium and secondary areas (see below) to successfully pass an audition for a four-year music baccalaureate program.
• Demonstrate basic musicianship and knowledge of the theoretical, historical and technological backgrounds needed to understand how music is created, understood and performed.
• Apply background in the areas listed above so as to intelligently focus their musical work in additional areas beyond performance such as: historical research, composition/arranging, education and production.

Program Entry Requirements:
Students applying for admission as performance majors must meet with the music department chair as well as audition and take a music theory placement test. The audition requires evidence of proficiency as performers or composers: preparation, technical facility, expressiveness in performance or compositional arranging, musical sensitivity and familiarity with a variety of repertoire. The music theory placement test covers key signatures, major and minor scales, intervals, chords and rhythmic recognition. Applicants with deficiencies in music theory must pass a fundamental theory course, Music 100 (Music Reading), with a minimum grade of "B."

In addition to satisfying audition criteria, performance majors must qualify for English 101 and MATH 118 to take applied music. Non-performance applicants are exempt from the audition but must take the placement test. Applicants who successfully meet the requirements listed above are accepted into the music curriculum.

Program of Study and Graduation Requirements:
To qualify for the A.A. degree, a student must complete 65-69 credits, depending upon their concentration, as prescribed and attain a minimum grade point average of 2.0 ("C" average).

Download a printable degree description (PDF File) that includes a recommended course sequence grid.