Skip to Content


Music

Overview Degrees/Certificates Courses Faculty

Associate Degrees for Transfer

A.A.-T. in Music

Completion of this degree provides a basic foundation in music. Program offerings include course work in music theory and aural skills, applied instrumental and vocal instruction, and ensemble performance.

The Associate in Arts in Music for Transfer provides students with a major that fulfills the general requirements of the California State University for transfer. Students with this degree will receive priority admission with junior status to the California State University system.

The Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT) student completion requirements (as stated in SB1440 law):

(1) Completion of 60 semester units or 90 quarter units that are eligible for transfer to the California State University, including both of the following:
(A) The Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC) or the California State University General Education-Breadth Requirements (CSU GE-Breadth).
(B) A minimum of 18 semester units or 27 quarter units in a major or area of emphasis, as determined by the community college district.

(2) Obtainment of a minimum grade point average of 2.0.

ADTs also require that students must earn a “C” or better in all courses required for the major or area of emphasis. A ”P” (Pass) grade is also an acceptable grade for courses in the major if the course is taken on a Pass/No Pass basis.

Catalog Date: January 1, 2025

Degree Requirements

Course Code Course Title Units
MUFHL 400 Music Theory and Musicianship I 4
MUFHL 401 Music Theory and Musicianship II 4
MUFHL 410 Music Theory and Musicianship III 4
A minimum of 2 units from the following: 2
MUIVI 410 Applied Music (1)
A minimum of 4 units from the following: 4
MUP 325 Jazz Band (2)
MUP 335 Concert Band (1)
MUP 355 College Choir (2)
MUP 356 Advanced College Choir (2)
MUP 406 Vocal Ensemble (2)
MUP 407 Advanced Vocal Ensemble (2)
MUP 424 Commercial Music Ensemble (2)
A minimum of 4 units from the following: 4
MUFHL 411 Music Theory and Musicianship IV (4)
Total Units: 22

The Associate in Arts in Music for Transfer (AA-T) degree may be obtained by completion of 60 transferable, semester units with a minimum overall grade point average (GPA) of 2.0, including (a) a minimum grade of "C" (or "P") for each course in the major or area of emphasis described in the Required Program, and (b) either the Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC) or the California State University General Education-Breadth Requirements.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • analyze musical compositions and scores.
  • understand the elements of music: melody, rhythm, harmony, and form.
  • apply the elements of music to performance and analysis.
  • perform music at a level appropriate to the area of specialization.
  • critically analyze music performances, whether personal or performed by other musicians.

Career Information

Individuals with four-year degrees in music may be placed in the K-12 educational field, perform in professional music ensembles, direct religious or community music groups, instruct music privately, compose music for media and publishing, become music therapists, or become administrators for music organizations. Advanced degrees in music may lead to careers as educators at the college or university level, performers, music directors, or music editors and journalists.

Associate Degrees

A.A. in Commercial Music, Audio Production Emphasis

This program is designed as introductory preparation for employment in audio engineering. Courses in the theory and practice of recording techniques are offered to give students a well-rounded foundation to begin work or to pursue a four-year degree.

Catalog Date: January 1, 2025

Degree Requirements

Course Code Course Title Units
MUFHL 309 Introduction to American Popular Music 3
MUFHL 320 Exploring Music 3
MUSM 110 The Business of Music 3
MUSM 306 Live Sound Reinforcement 3
MUSM 342 Recording Studio Techniques I 3
MUSM 344 Recording Studio Techniques II 3
MUSM 350 Recording Studio Techniques III 3
MUSM 356 Pro Tools 101, Introduction to Pro Tools 1.5
MUSM 357 Pro Tools 110 Intermediate Pro Tools 1.5
MUSM 362 Mixing and Mastering Music Projects 3
MUSM 366 Pro Tools 201, Advanced Pro Tools 1.5
MUSM 367 Audio for Video Post Production 3
A minimum of 5.5 units from the following: 5.5
MUFHL 305 Music Appreciation (3)
MUFHL 310 Survey of Music History and Literature (Greek Antiquity to 1750) (3)
   or MUFHL 481 Survey of Music History and Literature (Greek Antiquity to 1750) - Honors (3)
MUFHL 311 Survey of Music History and Literature (1750 to the present) (3)
   or MUFHL 482 Survey of Music History and Literature (1750 to the present) - Honors (3)
MUFHL 315 Jazz History (3)
MUIVI 345 Beginning Piano I (1 - 2)
MUSM 115 Business Development and Marketing for Musicians and Entertainment Entrepreneurs (3)
MUSM 330 Introduction to MIDI: Musical Instrument Digital Interface (2.5)
MUSM 331 Intermediate MIDI: Musical Instrument Digital Interface (2.5)
MUSM 361 Advanced Studio Sessions (3)
Total Units: 37

The Commercial Music, Audio Production Emphasis Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree may be obtained by completion of the required program, plus the local SCC General Education Requirement, plus sufficient electives to meet a 60-unit total. See SCC graduation requirements.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • operate music recording equipment using various music recording workflows.
  • describe the processes involved in recording music groups in the semi-professional or home recording studio.
  • display skills needed to conduct a professional music recording session.
  • properly use the equipment found in recording studios to achieve successful outcomes to a variety of activities common to the music recording workflow.
  • successfully complete projects in music mixing and audio post-production using both analog and digital platforms.

Career Information

The Commercial Music, Audio Production A.A. Degree program provides students with training toward career paths as audio engineers in professional recording studios and multi-media, post-production audio specialists in corporate audio-visual departments and owner/engineers of smaller demo production studios.


A.A. in Commercial Music, Music Business Management Emphasis

This program is designed to prepare students for entry level positions in the music industry in the areas of artist management, music publishing, talent agencies, concert promotion, and music distribution and retail. It also prepares students to effectively manage and organize self-produced music projects.

Catalog Date: January 1, 2025

Degree Requirements

Course Code Course Title Units
BUS 300 Introduction to Business 3
MGMT 304 Principles of Management 3
MUFHL 309 Introduction to American Popular Music 3
MUSM 110 The Business of Music 3
MUSM 115 Business Development and Marketing for Musicians and Entertainment Entrepreneurs 3
MUSM 116 Legal Aspects Of The Music Industry 3
A minimum of 12 units from the following: 12
Select at least one course from each group.
Business Management
ACCT 101 Fundamentals of College Accounting (3)
CISA 305 Beginning Word Processing (2)
CISA 340 Presentation Graphics (2)
MGMT 308 Personnel and Human Resources Management (3)
TA 440 Arts Management (3)
Communication Skills
COMM 321 Interpersonal Communication (3)
COMM 331 Group Discussion (3)
COMM 361 The Communication Experience (3)
MGMT 372 Human Relations and Organizational Behavior (3)
PSYC 358 Principles of Interpersonal Relations (3)
Retail Marketing
MKT 300 Principles of Marketing (3)
MKT 310 Selling Professionally (3)
MKT 314 Advertising (3)
Total Units: 30

The Commercial Music, Music Business Management Emphasis Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree may be obtained by completion of the required program, plus the local SCC General Education Requirement, plus sufficient electives to meet a 60-unit total. See SCC graduation requirements.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • understand the structure and recent history of the U.S. music industry.
  • demonstrate an understanding of key music industry concepts including copyright, music publishing, ownership and licensing of works, First Use, Fair Use, and Public Domain.
  • demonstrate knowledge of legal, accounting, and managerial practices including recording artist agreements, recoupment, royalties, advances, licensing, artist management, and representation.
  • enumerate, explain, and objectively evaluate methods of music promotion including publicity, distribution, touring, downloads, licensing, and "do-it-yourself" techniques.
  • create outlines, schedules, budgets, and promotional materials used in music management, marketing, and business relations.
  • analyze and interpret the effects of technology on legal, artistic, and financial aspects of the music industry.

Career Information

Artist management and representation, independent recording labels, music publishing and licensing, music legal services, music publicity and public relations, concert promotion, music retail and distribution; self-management, artist-owned recording labels, and "do-it-yourself" music pursuits.


A.A. in Commercial Music, Performance Emphasis

This program is designed to prepare students to perform in the styles of popular music most often heard on radio, television, and in live concert venues.

Catalog Date: January 1, 2025

Degree Requirements

Course Code Course Title Units
MUFHL 309 Introduction to American Popular Music 3
MUFHL 320 Exploring Music 3
MUFHL 400 Music Theory and Musicianship I 4
MUFHL 401 Music Theory and Musicianship II 4
MUIVI 345 Beginning Piano I 1 -2
MUIVI 380 Improvisation Workshop I 2
MUIVI 410 Applied Music 1
MUSM 110 The Business of Music 3
MUSM 330 Introduction to MIDI: Musical Instrument Digital Interface 2.5
MUSM 331 Intermediate MIDI: Musical Instrument Digital Interface 2.5
MUSM 342 Recording Studio Techniques I 3
A minimum of 1 unit from the following: 1
MUP 325 Jazz Band (2)
MUP 335 Concert Band (1)
MUP 340 Symphonic Band (2)
MUP 355 College Choir (2)
MUP 406 Vocal Ensemble (2)
MUP 424 Commercial Music Ensemble (2)
A minimum of 5 units from the following: 5
MUFHL 310 Survey of Music History and Literature (Greek Antiquity to 1750) (3)
MUFHL 311 Survey of Music History and Literature (1750 to the present) (3)
MUFHL 321 Basic Musicianship (3)
MUFHL 330 World Music (3)
MUFHL 410 Music Theory and Musicianship III (4)
MUFHL 411 Music Theory and Musicianship IV (4)
MUFHL 430 Commercial Harmony and Arranging I (2)
MUFHL 431 Commercial Harmony and Arranging II (2)
MUIVI 315 Beginning Voice (1 - 2)
MUIVI 325 Intermediate Voice (2)
MUIVI 330 Advanced Voice (2)
MUIVI 335 Mentorship & Vocal Repertoire (2)
MUIVI 355 Intermediate Piano I (1 - 2)
MUIVI 356 Intermediate Piano II (1 - 2)
MUIVI 365 Popular Piano Styles I (1)
MUSM 320 Contemporary Songwriting (3)
MUSM 321 Contemporary Songwriting (3)
MUSM 344 Recording Studio Techniques II (3)
MUSM 350 Recording Studio Techniques III (3)
Total Units: 35 - 36

The Commercial Music, Performance Emphasis Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree may be obtained by completion of the required program, plus the local SCC General Education Requirement, plus sufficient electives to meet a 60-unit total. See SCC graduation requirements.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • demonstrate performance ability on a chosen instrument(s).
  • demonstrate knowledge of contemporary musical styles.
  • demonstrate basic knowledge of the audio recording process.
  • participate in an audio recording session as a performer.
  • demonstrate basic improvisational techniques.
  • design and implement a practice routine for maintaining and improving performance skills.

Career Information

This program is for the student interested in being a performer of various styles of popular music, both live and recorded.


A.A. in Commercial Music, Songwriting/Arranging Emphasis

This program is designed to prepare students for free-lance employment in song-publishing, submission of songs to major recording artists, composition of jingles for advertising agencies, arranging music for schools and churches, and song demo production using MIDI techniques.

Catalog Date: January 1, 2025

Degree Requirements

Course Code Course Title Units
MUFHL 309 Introduction to American Popular Music 3
MUFHL 320 Exploring Music 3
MUFHL 400 Music Theory and Musicianship I 4
MUFHL 401 Music Theory and Musicianship II 4
MUIVI 345 Beginning Piano I 1 -2
MUSM 110 The Business of Music 3
MUSM 320 Contemporary Songwriting 3
MUSM 321 Contemporary Songwriting 3
MUSM 330 Introduction to MIDI: Musical Instrument Digital Interface 2.5
MUSM 331 Intermediate MIDI: Musical Instrument Digital Interface 2.5
MUSM 342 Recording Studio Techniques I 3
A minimum of 5 units from the following: 5
ENGCW 400 Creative Writing (3)
ENGLT 303 Introduction to the Short Story (3)
MUFHL 305 Music Appreciation (3)
MUFHL 310 Survey of Music History and Literature (Greek Antiquity to 1750) (3)
MUFHL 311 Survey of Music History and Literature (1750 to the present) (3)
MUFHL 315 Jazz History (3)
MUFHL 321 Basic Musicianship (3)
MUFHL 330 World Music (3)
MUFHL 410 Music Theory and Musicianship III (4)
MUFHL 411 Music Theory and Musicianship IV (4)
MUFHL 430 Commercial Harmony and Arranging I (2)
MUFHL 431 Commercial Harmony and Arranging II (2)
MUP 424 Commercial Music Ensemble (2)
MUSM 344 Recording Studio Techniques II (3)
MUSM 350 Recording Studio Techniques III (3)
Total Units: 37 - 38

The Commercial Music, Songwriting/Arranging Emphasis Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree may be obtained by completion of the required program, plus the local SCC General Education Requirement, plus sufficient electives to meet a 60-unit total. See SCC graduation requirements.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • compose music and words for songs found in contemporary commercial styles.
  • create arrangements of songs for small ensembles.
  • record basic audio and MIDI tracks for demo purposes.
  • demonstrate basic knowledge concerning music contracts, copyrights, and royalties.

Career Information

This program is for the student who is interested in being a freelance songwriter and arranger for commercial groups, advertising, schools, and churches.


A.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies: Arts and Humanities

The Interdisciplinary Studies degree is designed for students who seek a greater understanding of disciplines within the arts and humanities. This program is a good choice for students planning on transferring to the California State University or the University of California. The student will be able to satisfy general education requirements and focus on transferable course work that relates to a specific major and/or individual interest.

It is highly recommended that students consult a counselor to determine the classes within each area that will best prepare them for their intended transfer major.

Catalog Date: January 1, 2025

Degree Requirements

Course Code Course Title Units
A minimum of 18 units from the following: 181
ARABIC 401 Elementary Arabic (5)
ARABIC 402 Elementary Arabic (5)
ART 300 Drawing and Composition I (3)
ART 301 Digital Drawing and Composition (3)
ART 302 Drawing and Composition II (3)
ART 304 Figure Drawing I (3)
ART 305 Figure Drawing II (3)
ART 307 Rendering (3)
ART 310 Pen and Ink Drawing (3)
ART 312 Portrait Drawing (3)
ART 320 Design: Fundamentals (3)
ART 322 Design: Image and Content (3)
ART 323 Design: Color Theory (3)
ART 324 Collage and Assemblage (3)
ART 330 Mural Painting (3)
ART 332 Oil Painting (3)
ART 333 Intermediate Oil Painting (3)
ART 334 Acrylic Painting (3)
ART 335 Acrylic Painting: Abstract (3)
ART 336 Watercolor Painting (3)
ART 337 Intermediate Watercolor Painting (3)
ART 361 Printmaking: Survey (3)
ART 362 Printmaking: Intaglio (3)
ART 363 Printmaking: Screen Printing (3)
ART 364 Printmaking: Relief (3)
ART 366 Printmaking: Lithography (3)
ART 367 Book Arts (3)
ART 370 Three Dimensional Design (3)
ART 372 Sculpture (3)
ART 373 Intermediate Sculpture (3)
ART 374 Sculpture Lab (1 - 2)
ART 375 Figure Sculpture (3)
ART 380 Techniques in Metal Design (3)
ART 381 Intermediate Techniques in Metal Design (3)
ART 384 Metal Design: Emphasis In Casting (3)
ART 385 Metal Arts Lab (1 - 2)
ART 390 Ceramics (3)
ART 391 Intermediate Ceramics (3)
ART 392 Ceramic Lab (1 - 2)
ART 394 Wheel Thrown Ceramics, Beginning (3)
ART 395 Wheel Thrown Ceramics, Intermediate (3)
ART 396 Wheel Thrown Ceramics, Advanced (3)
ART 400 Clay Sculpture (3)
ART 404 Intermediate Clay Sculpture (3)
ART 440 Artists' Materials and Techniques (3)
ART 443 Art Gallery Operations (3)
ART 445 Art Gallery Operations (3)
ART 446 Portfolio Preparation (3)
ART 494 Topics in Art (0.5 - 4)
ART 495 Independent Studies in Art (1 - 3)
ARTH 300 Art Appreciation (3)
ARTH 304 Ancient Art (3)
ARTH 306 Medieval Art (3)
ARTH 307 Italian Renaissance Art (3)
ARTH 308 Renaissance Tradition in Art (3)
ARTH 310 Modern Art (3)
ARTH 312 Women in Art (3)
ARTH 313 History of Western Architecture: Prehistoric to Renaissance (3)
ARTH 314 History of Western Architecture: Renaissance to Modern (3)
ARTH 318 History of American Art (3)
ARTH 320 Multicultural Art in America (3)
ARTH 324 Art of the Americas (3)
ARTH 325 Native American Art History (3)
ARTH 328 Survey of African Art (3)
ARTH 332 Asian Art (3)
ARTH 334 International Contemporary Art (3)
ARTH 410 Early 20th Century Art (3)
ARTH 484 Ancient Art-Honors (3)
ARTH 486 Medieval Art-Honors (3)
ARTH 487 Renaissance Art-Honors (3)
ARTH 488 Modern Art--Honors (3)
ARTH 494 Topics in Art History (0.5 - 4)
ARTH 495 Independent Studies in Art History (1 - 3)
ARTH 499 Experimental Offering in Art History (0.5 - 4)
CANT 401 Elementary Cantonese (4)
CANT 402 Elementary Cantonese (4)
CANT 411 Intermediate Cantonese (4)
CANT 412 Intermediate Cantonese (4)
COMM 305 Oral Interpretation (3)
DEAF 310 American Sign Language I (4)
DEAF 312 American Sign Language II (4)
DEAF 314 American Sign Language III (4)
DEAF 316 American Sign Language IV (4)
ENGCW 400 Creative Writing (3)
ENGCW 410 Fiction Writing Workshop (3)
ENGCW 420 Poetry Writing Workshop (3)
ENGCW 430 Creative Non-Fiction Writing Workshop (3)
ENGLT 301 Introduction to Literature in Hip-Hop Culture (3)
ENGLT 303 Introduction to the Short Story (3)
ENGLT 310 English Literature I (3)
ENGLT 311 English Literature II (3)
ENGLT 317 The English Bible as Literature (3)
ENGLT 320 American Literature I (3)
ENGLT 321 American Literature II (3)
ENGLT 327 Literature of California (3)
ENGLT 328 Literature and The Environment (3)
ENGLT 331 African-American Literature (1730-1930) (3)
ENGLT 332 African-American Literature (1930-Present) (3)
ENGLT 334 Asian-American Literature (3)
ENGLT 335 Latino, Mexican-American, and Chicano Literature (3)
ENGLT 345 Mythologies of the World (3)
ENGLT 360 Women in Literature (3)
ENGLT 365 Introduction to Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender Literature (3)
ENGLT 370 Children and Literature (3)
ENGLT 380 Introduction to Shakespeare (3)
ENGLT 392 Science Fiction and Fantasy (3)
ENGLT 400 Introduction to Film (3)
ENGLT 401 Women in Film and Literature (3)
ENGLT 403 Film Adaptations (3)
ENGLT 404 Documentary Film Studies (3)
ENGLT 480 World Literature: Antiquity to the Early Modern World - Honors (3)
ENGLT 481 World Literature: Seventeenth Century to Present - Honors (3)
ENGLT 494 Topics in Literature (3)
ENGLT 495 Independent Studies in Literature (1 - 3)
ENGLT 499 Experimental Offering in Literature (0.5 - 4)
ENGWR 301 College Composition and Literature (3)
ENGWR 303 Argumentative Writing and Critical Thinking Through Literature (4)
FREN 401 Elementary French (4)
FREN 402 Elementary French (4)
FREN 411 Intermediate French (4)
FREN 412 Intermediate French (4)
GREEK 401 Elementary Modern Standard Greek (4)
GREEK 402 Elementary Modern Standard Greek (4)
HIST 300 History of Europe and the Mediterranean to 1500 (3)
HIST 302 History of Europe Since 1500 (3)
HIST 307 History of World Civilizations to 1500 (3)
HIST 308 History of World Civilizations, 1500 to Present (3)
HUM 300 Classical Humanities (3)
HUM 310 Modern Humanities (3)
HUM 332 American Humanities (3)
HUM 352 Religious Themes in Western Art, Literature and Music (3)
ITAL 401 Elementary Italian (4)
ITAL 402 Elementary Italian (4)
JAPAN 401 Elementary Japanese (4)
JAPAN 402 Elementary Japanese (4)
JAPAN 411 Intermediate Japanese (4)
JAPAN 412 Intermediate Japanese (4)
KOREAN 401 Elementary Korean (4)
KOREAN 402 Elementary Korean (4)
MAND 401 Elementary Mandarin (4)
MAND 402 Elementary Mandarin (4)
MAND 411 Intermediate Mandarin (4)
MAND 412 Intermediate Mandarin (4)
MUFHL 305 Music Appreciation (3)
MUFHL 309 Introduction to American Popular Music (3)
MUFHL 310 Survey of Music History and Literature (Greek Antiquity to 1750) (3)
MUFHL 315 Jazz History (3)
MUFHL 330 World Music (3)
MUIVI 315 Beginning Voice (1 - 2)
MUIVI 325 Intermediate Voice (2)
MUIVI 330 Advanced Voice (2)
MUIVI 345 Beginning Piano I (1 - 2)
MUIVI 346 Beginning Piano II (1 - 2)
MUIVI 355 Intermediate Piano I (1 - 2)
MUIVI 356 Intermediate Piano II (1 - 2)
MUIVI 357 Advanced Piano I (1 - 2)
MUIVI 358 Advanced Piano II (1 - 2)
MUIVI 371 Intermediate Guitar (2)
MUIVI 372 Advanced Guitar (2)
MUIVI 373 Popular Electric Bass Styles I (1)
MUIVI 374 Popular Electric Bass Styles II (1)
MUIVI 375 Popular Electric Guitar Styles I (1)
MUIVI 377 Popular Electric Guitar Styles II (1)
MUIVI 380 Improvisation Workshop I (2)
MUIVI 381 Improvisation Workshop II (2)
MUIVI 382 Improvisation Workshop III (2)
MUIVI 452 World Drumming (1)
MUIVI 454 Indian Classical Fusion Improvisation (1)
MUP 325 Jazz Band (2)
MUP 335 Concert Band (1)
MUP 355 College Choir (2)
PHIL 300 Introduction to Philosophy (3)
PHIL 306 Environmental Philosophy (3)
PHIL 310 Introduction to Ethics (3)
PHIL 330 History of Classical Philosophy (3)
PHIL 331 History of Modern Philosophy (3)
PHIL 338 Contemporary Philosophy (3)
PHIL 352 Introduction to World Religions (3)
PHIL 368 Law, Justice, and Punishment (3)
PRSIAN 401 Elementary Persian (4)
PRSIAN 402 Elementary Persian (4)
PNJABI 401 Elementary Punjabi (4)
PNJABI 402 Elementary Punjabi (4)
RUSS 401 Elementary Russian (4)
RUSS 402 Elementary Russian (4)
RUSS 411 Intermediate Russian (4)
RUSS 412 Intermediate Russian (4)
SPAN 401 Elementary Spanish I (4)
SPAN 402 Elementary Spanish II (4)
SPAN 411 Intermediate Spanish (4)
SPAN 412 Intermediate Spanish (4)
TA 300 Introduction to the Theatre (3)
TA 302 History and Theory of the Theatre I (3)
TA 303 History and Theory of the Theatre II (3)
TA 308 Diversity in American Theatre (3)
TA 342 Introduction to Acting (3)
TA 350 Theory and Techniques of Acting I (3)
TA 351 Theory and Techniques of Acting II (3)
TAFILM 300 Introduction to Film (3)
TAFILM 302 History of Film (3)
TAFILM 303 History of Film: 1880's through 1950's (3)
TAFILM 304 History of Film: 1950's to Present (3)
TAFILM 320 Cinema Genres (3)
TAFILM 330 Film Making (3)
TAFILM 360 Screenwriting (3)
TGLG 401 Elementary Tagalog (4)
TGLG 402 Elementary Tagalog (4)
VIET 401 Elementary Vietnamese (4)
VIET 402 Elementary Vietnamese (4)
Total Units: 18

1Select courses from at least three areas.

The Interdisciplinary Studies: Arts and Humanities Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree may be obtained by completion of the required program, plus the local SCC General Education Requirement, plus sufficient electives to meet a 60-unit total. See SCC graduation requirements.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • evaluate and interpret the ways in which people throughout the ages in different cultures have responded to themselves and the world around them in artistic and cultural creation and expression.

Career Information

Students who complete this degree pattern can find career opportunities in the growing film and entertainment industries; in education; in the design and fabrication industries, and as an independent contractor concentrating in the area of their study.


A.A. in Music, General

The A.A. degree in music degree provides the foundation for future performers, composers, conductors, educators, writers and researchers, and music therapists. Students will specialize in and receive training in applied music with a choice of either a General, Instrumental, or Vocal focus. Students who plan to transfer to a four-year college or university are advised to complete this course of study.

Catalog Date: January 1, 2025

Degree Requirements

Course Code Course Title Units
MUFHL 310 Survey of Music History and Literature (Greek Antiquity to 1750) (3) 3
   or MUFHL 481 Survey of Music History and Literature (Greek Antiquity to 1750) - Honors (3)
MUFHL 311 Survey of Music History and Literature (1750 to the present) (3) 3
   or MUFHL 482 Survey of Music History and Literature (1750 to the present) - Honors (3)
MUFHL 400 Music Theory and Musicianship I 4
MUFHL 401 Music Theory and Musicianship II 4
MUFHL 410 Music Theory and Musicianship III 4
MUFHL 411 Music Theory and Musicianship IV 4
MUIVI 345 Beginning Piano I 1 -2
MUIVI 346 Beginning Piano II 1 -2
Subtotal Units: 24 - 26
General
Course Code Course Title Units
A minimum of 4 units from the following: 4
MUIVI 315 Beginning Voice (1 - 2)
MUIVI 325 Intermediate Voice (2)
MUIVI 330 Advanced Voice (2)
MUIVI 335 Mentorship & Vocal Repertoire (2)
MUIVI 355 Intermediate Piano I (1 - 2)
MUIVI 356 Intermediate Piano II (1 - 2)
MUIVI 357 Advanced Piano I (1 - 2)
MUIVI 358 Advanced Piano II (1 - 2)
MUIVI 370 Beginning Guitar (2)
MUIVI 371 Intermediate Guitar (2)
MUIVI 410 Applied Music (1)
A minimum of 8 units from the following: 81
MUP 325 Jazz Band (2)
MUP 335 Concert Band (1)
MUP 355 College Choir (2)
MUP 356 Advanced College Choir (2)
MUP 406 Vocal Ensemble (2)
MUP 407 Advanced Vocal Ensemble (2)
MUP 424 Commercial Music Ensemble (2)
General Units: 12
Total Units: 36 - 38
Instrumentalists & Composers
Course Code Course Title Units
A minimum of 4 units from the following: 4
MUIVI 410 Applied Music (1)
A minimum of 8 units from the following: 82
MUP 325 Jazz Band (2)
MUP 335 Concert Band (1)
MUP 355 College Choir (2)
MUP 356 Advanced College Choir (2)
MUP 406 Vocal Ensemble (2)
MUP 407 Advanced Vocal Ensemble (2)
MUP 424 Commercial Music Ensemble (2)
Instrumentalists & Composers Units: 12
Total Units: 36 - 38
Vocalists
Course Code Course Title Units
MUIVI 315 Beginning Voice 1 -2
MUIVI 325 Intermediate Voice 2
MUIVI 330 Advanced Voice 2
MUIVI 335 Mentorship & Vocal Repertoire 2
A minimum of 4 units from the following: 4
MUIVI 410 Applied Music (1)
A minimum of 8 units from the following: 83
MUP 355 College Choir (2)
MUP 356 Advanced College Choir (2)
MUP 406 Vocal Ensemble (2)
MUP 407 Advanced Vocal Ensemble (2)
MUP 424 Commercial Music Ensemble (2)
Vocalists Units: 19 - 20
Total Units: 43 - 46

1NOTE: All music majors are required to enroll in at least one music performance course each semester they are enrolled.

2NOTE: All music majors are required to enroll in at least one music performance course each semester they are enrolled.

3NOTE: All music majors are required to enroll in at least one music performance course each semester they are enrolled.

The Music, General Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree may be obtained by completion of the required program, plus the local SCC General Education Requirement, plus sufficient electives to meet a 60-unit total. See SCC graduation requirements.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • demonstrate performance ability on a chosen instrument.
  • analyze musical scores and compositions.
  • critique personal music performances and those of other musicians.
  • analyze the elements of music (rhythm, melody, harmony, and form).
  • create derivative or original music at a level appropriate to the area of specialization.
  • compare and contrast the characteristics of various musical cultures and historical periods from the origin of music history to the present.

Career Information

The Music degree prepares students for careers in music performance, education, composition, conducting, retail music industry, music publishing, and music therapy. The degree also prepares students for further study at a four-year institution.

Certificates of Achievement

Commercial Music, Audio Production Emphasis Certificate

This program is designed as introductory preparation for employment in audio engineering. Courses in the theory and practice of recording techniques are offered to give students a well-rounded foundation to begin work and/or to pursue a four-year degree.

Catalog Date: January 1, 2025

Certificate Requirements

Course Code Course Title Units
MUFHL 309 Introduction to American Popular Music 3
MUFHL 320 Exploring Music 3
MUSM 110 The Business of Music 3
MUSM 306 Live Sound Reinforcement 3
MUSM 342 Recording Studio Techniques I 3
MUSM 344 Recording Studio Techniques II 3
MUSM 350 Recording Studio Techniques III 3
MUSM 356 Pro Tools 101, Introduction to Pro Tools 1.5
MUSM 357 Pro Tools 110 Intermediate Pro Tools 1.5
MUSM 362 Mixing and Mastering Music Projects 3
MUSM 366 Pro Tools 201, Advanced Pro Tools 1.5
MUSM 367 Audio for Video Post Production 3
A minimum of 5.5 units from the following: 5.5
MUFHL 305 Music Appreciation (3)
MUFHL 310 Survey of Music History and Literature (Greek Antiquity to 1750) (3)
   or MUFHL 481 Survey of Music History and Literature (Greek Antiquity to 1750) - Honors (3)
MUFHL 311 Survey of Music History and Literature (1750 to the present) (3)
   or MUFHL 482 Survey of Music History and Literature (1750 to the present) - Honors (3)
MUFHL 315 Jazz History (3)
MUIVI 345 Beginning Piano I (1 - 2)
MUSM 115 Business Development and Marketing for Musicians and Entertainment Entrepreneurs (3)
MUSM 330 Introduction to MIDI: Musical Instrument Digital Interface (2.5)
MUSM 331 Intermediate MIDI: Musical Instrument Digital Interface (2.5)
MUSM 361 Advanced Studio Sessions (3)
Total Units: 37

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • operate music recording equipment using various music recording workflows.
  • describe the processes involved in recording music groups in the semi-professional or home recording studio.
  • display skills needed to conduct a professional music recording session.
  • properly use the equipment found in recording studios to achieve successful outcomes to a variety of activities common to the music recording workflow.
  • successfully complete projects in music mixing and audio post-production using both analog and digital platforms.

Career Information

The Commercial Music, Audio Production Certificate program provides students with training toward career paths as audio engineers in professional recording studios, multi-media, and post-production audio specialists in corporate audio-visual departments and as owner/engineers in smaller demo production studios.


Commercial Music, Music Business Management Emphasis Certificate

This program is designed to prepare students for entry level positions in the music industry in the areas of artist management, music publishing, talent agencies, concert promotion, and music distribution and retail; it also prepares students to effectively manage and organize self-produced music projects.

Catalog Date: January 1, 2025

Certificate Requirements

Course Code Course Title Units
BUS 300 Introduction to Business 3
MGMT 304 Principles of Management 3
MUFHL 309 Introduction to American Popular Music 3
MUSM 110 The Business of Music 3
MUSM 115 Business Development and Marketing for Musicians and Entertainment Entrepreneurs 3
MUSM 116 Legal Aspects Of The Music Industry 3
A minimum of 12 units from the following: 12
Select at least one course from each group.
Business Management
ACCT 101 Fundamentals of College Accounting (3)
CISA 305 Beginning Word Processing (2)
CISA 340 Presentation Graphics (2)
MGMT 308 Personnel and Human Resources Management (3)
TA 440 Arts Management (3)
Communication Skills
COMM 321 Interpersonal Communication (3)
COMM 331 Group Discussion (3)
COMM 361 The Communication Experience (3)
MGMT 372 Human Relations and Organizational Behavior (3)
PSYC 358 Principles of Interpersonal Relations (3)
Retail Marketing
MKT 300 Principles of Marketing (3)
MKT 310 Selling Professionally (3)
MKT 314 Advertising (3)
Total Units: 30

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • understand the structure and recent history of the U.S. music industry.
  • demonstrate an understanding of key music industry concepts including copyright, music publishing, ownership and licensing of works, First Use, Fair Use, and Public Domain.
  • demonstrate knowledge of legal, accounting, and managerial practices including recording artist agreements, recoupment, royalties, advances, licensing, artist management, and representation.
  • enumerate, explain, and objectively evaluate methods of music promotion including publicity, distribution, touring, downloads, licensing, and "do-it-yourself" techniques.
  • create outlines, schedules, budgets, and promotional materials used in music management, marketing, and business relations.
  • analyze and interpret the effects of technology on legal, artistic, and financial aspects of the music industry.

Career Information

Artist management and representation, independent recording labels, music publishing and licensing, music legal services, music publicity and public relations, concert promotion, music retail and distribution; self-management, artist-owned recording labels, and "do-it-yourself" music pursuits.


Commercial Music, Performance Emphasis Certificate

This program is designed to prepare students to perform in the styles of popular music most often heard on radio, television, and in live concert venues.

Catalog Date: January 1, 2025

Certificate Requirements

Course Code Course Title Units
MUFHL 309 Introduction to American Popular Music 3
MUFHL 320 Exploring Music 3
MUFHL 400 Music Theory and Musicianship I 4
MUFHL 401 Music Theory and Musicianship II 4
MUIVI 345 Beginning Piano I 1 -2
MUIVI 380 Improvisation Workshop I 2
MUIVI 410 Applied Music 1
MUSM 110 The Business of Music 3
MUSM 330 Introduction to MIDI: Musical Instrument Digital Interface 2.5
MUSM 331 Intermediate MIDI: Musical Instrument Digital Interface 2.5
MUSM 342 Recording Studio Techniques I 3
A minimum of 1 unit from the following: 1
MUP 325 Jazz Band (2)
MUP 335 Concert Band (1)
MUP 340 Symphonic Band (2)
MUP 355 College Choir (2)
MUP 406 Vocal Ensemble (2)
MUP 424 Commercial Music Ensemble (2)
A minimum of 5 units from the following: 5
MUFHL 310 Survey of Music History and Literature (Greek Antiquity to 1750) (3)
MUFHL 311 Survey of Music History and Literature (1750 to the present) (3)
MUFHL 321 Basic Musicianship (3)
MUFHL 330 World Music (3)
MUFHL 410 Music Theory and Musicianship III (4)
MUFHL 411 Music Theory and Musicianship IV (4)
MUFHL 430 Commercial Harmony and Arranging I (2)
MUFHL 431 Commercial Harmony and Arranging II (2)
MUIVI 315 Beginning Voice (1 - 2)
MUIVI 325 Intermediate Voice (2)
MUIVI 330 Advanced Voice (2)
MUIVI 335 Mentorship & Vocal Repertoire (2)
MUIVI 355 Intermediate Piano I (1 - 2)
MUIVI 356 Intermediate Piano II (1 - 2)
MUIVI 365 Popular Piano Styles I (1)
MUSM 320 Contemporary Songwriting (3)
MUSM 321 Contemporary Songwriting (3)
MUSM 344 Recording Studio Techniques II (3)
MUSM 350 Recording Studio Techniques III (3)
Total Units: 35 - 36

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • demonstrate performance ability on a chosen instrument(s).
  • demonstrate knowledge of contemporary musical styles.
  • demonstrate basic knowledge of the audio recording process.
  • participate in an audio recording session as a performer.
  • demonstrate basic improvisational techniques.
  • design and implement a practice routine for maintaining and improving performance skills.

Career Information

This program is for the student who is interested in being a performer of various styles of popular music, both live and recorded.


Commercial Music, Songwriting/Arranging Emphasis Certificate

This program is designed to prepare students for free-lance employment in song-publishing, submission of songs to major recording artists, composition of jingles for advertising agencies, arranging music for schools and churches, and song demo production using MIDI techniques.

Catalog Date: January 1, 2025

Certificate Requirements

Course Code Course Title Units
MUFHL 309 Introduction to American Popular Music 3
MUFHL 320 Exploring Music 3
MUFHL 400 Music Theory and Musicianship I 4
MUFHL 401 Music Theory and Musicianship II 4
MUIVI 345 Beginning Piano I 1 -2
MUSM 110 The Business of Music 3
MUSM 320 Contemporary Songwriting 3
MUSM 321 Contemporary Songwriting 3
MUSM 330 Introduction to MIDI: Musical Instrument Digital Interface 2.5
MUSM 331 Intermediate MIDI: Musical Instrument Digital Interface 2.5
MUSM 342 Recording Studio Techniques I 3
A minimum of 5 units from the following: 5
ENGCW 400 Creative Writing (3)
ENGLT 303 Introduction to the Short Story (3)
MUFHL 305 Music Appreciation (3)
MUFHL 310 Survey of Music History and Literature (Greek Antiquity to 1750) (3)
MUFHL 311 Survey of Music History and Literature (1750 to the present) (3)
MUFHL 315 Jazz History (3)
MUFHL 321 Basic Musicianship (3)
MUFHL 330 World Music (3)
MUFHL 410 Music Theory and Musicianship III (4)
MUFHL 411 Music Theory and Musicianship IV (4)
MUFHL 430 Commercial Harmony and Arranging I (2)
MUFHL 431 Commercial Harmony and Arranging II (2)
MUP 424 Commercial Music Ensemble (2)
MUSM 344 Recording Studio Techniques II (3)
MUSM 350 Recording Studio Techniques III (3)
Total Units: 37 - 38

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • compose music and words for contemporary commercial styles songs.
  • create arrangements of songs for small ensembles.
  • record basic audio and MIDI tracks for demo purposes.
  • demonstrate basic knowledge concerning music contracts, copyrights, and royalties.

Career Information

This program is for the student who is interested in being a freelance songwriter and arranger for commercial groups, advertising, schools, and churches.