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Music Degree

Associate of Arts

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A male with a microphone in a studio, a male and female on a stage, and a woman in yellow overalls with paintbrushes.
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The music curriculum is designed for the student who plans (1) to earn the bachelor of arts degree with a major in music; (2) to earn the bachelor of music education degree; (3) to earn the bachelor of music degree with a major in performance, theory-composition, or history-literature; or (4) to seek employment upon completion of the AA.

Montgomery College is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM).

Montgomery College is a community college member of the National Association of Schools of Music.

In addition to the specific course sequence outlined in this section, the following department requirements must be met:

  1. Music majors enrolled in applied music courses must also register for MUSC 150 - Applied Music Laboratory.
  2. Students receiving the AA must perform in a graduation recital.
  3. All applied music students must register each semester for MUSC 163, MUSC 166, or other ensemble, as assigned by the department.

The student normally takes 16-17 credit hours each semester, for a total of 65-66 semester hours. The actual courses taken each semester will be selected by the student in consultation with a music adviser. Courses are selected from those general subjects required for graduation (General Education foundation and distribution requirements) and those necessary for acquiring musical knowledge (music requirements).

Anyone wishing to major in music at Montgomery College must first complete an audition interview with a full-time faculty member in the Department of Music. A suggested course sequence for full-time students follows; part-time students as well as full-time students must consult an adviser from the department before registering for music classes.

Program Outcomes

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

  • Apply the fundamentals of music theory from basic notation and ear training through part writing and microanalysis to the creative process. 
  • Identify musical periods and styles from the Middle Ages to the present.
  • Demonstrate the level of proficiency in music performance/education required to perform standard audition repertoire expected in four-year music programs or for work in a variety of music-related careers.
  • Perform collaboratively in ensembles, practice self-reflective assessment and create a strategy of long-term intentional practice through applied music studies, technical studies, ensembles, and master classes in preparation for auditions.
  • Work effectively in groups, as leaders or team members, to solve problems and interact productively with a diverse group of peers.


Program Advising

Meet with your academic advisor regularly to discuss your academic plans and make sure you are on track to graduate and/or transfer.  

Transfer Opportunities

MC has a long history of successfully preparing students for transfer to four-year institutions. See all transfer agreements.

Careers

For some positions listed, a bachelor's degree or higher may be required. Use the Career and Program Explorer to see a full report for this career field. See links below chart for further guidance and/or connect with a Program Advisor to discuss career goals.

Related careers include music performance and music education. 

  • MC Student Employment Services: Speak with the Student Employment Specialist for help with resume writing, interviewing, setting up a College Central Network (CCN)new window account and other job search topics.
  • Career Coach: Explore Career Coach to learn more about this career and/or discover related majors and in-demand careers based on your current interests! Take a Career Assessment and then browse careers and job opportunities in the area.

Curriculum

Suggested Course Sequence: Music

A suggested Music course sequence for students follows.

  • All students should review the advising guide and consult an advisor.
  • Find out about related programs and course in the Fields of Study section.
  • Most courses have either assessment levels that must be met or prerequisites (courses that must be taken first). Part-time students and those who need to meet assessment levels or take prerequisite courses will take longer to complete a degree. An advisor will help make sure you are taking your courses in the right order.
  • All degree-seeking students must take a central group of General Education courses in English, mathematics, arts, behavioral and social sciences, humanities, and science. These courses are included in the suggested course sequence below.

   

Suggested Course Sequence

Students should complete the required English and Math foundation courses within the first 24 credit hours. All students should review the Program Advising Guide and consult an advisor.

First Semester

Second Semester

Third Semester

Fourth Semester

* ENGL 101/ENGL 101A, if needed for ENGL 102, or MUSC Elective.

** Behavioral and Social Science Distribution (BSSD) courses must come from different disciplines.

† If MUSC 184 is not required it may be substituted with MUSC 234 or MUSC 238 with department consent.

†† Students should consult a MUSC advisor before registering.

‡ Course must be taken four times for credit within the semester students are registered for Applied Music.

‡‡ Check with the department for the selection of the following list of courses: MUSC 161, MUSC 161C, MUSC 161D, MUSC 163, MUSC 166, MUSC 170, MUSC 172. Students can select the courses based on the instrument/voice they study and/or by audition.

AA and AS programs require one global and cultural perspectives (GCP) General Education course.


How To Apply and Register

Related Programs and Courses

General Studies Degree

Students who major in general studies explore personal, professional, and academic areas of interest within a flexible framework supporting transfer.

Workforce Development and Continuing Education

MC offers a wide variety of noncredit classes. These courses are designed to help you upgrade your skills, pursue career training, or learn something new.

 

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