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Music Pathways
Click on each music pathway to see the recommended quarter-by-quarter classes and other recommendations.
These pathways assume:
- You will start in the fall.
- You are ready to take 100- and 200-level classes.
The first pathway also assumes you will be a full-time student.
If not, you can still complete a music pathway! You will just need to make adjustments. Talk with your advisor to customize your plan.
MUSIC, ASSOCIATE IN MUSIC (DTA/MRP) (2 YEARS) (104 CREDITS)
Follow this recommended pathway to earn the Associate in Music transfer degree and prepare for a university major in music. Or you can customize your plan even more. Talk with your advisor about adapting it for your individual goals.
Scroll to the end for course suggestions.
Quarter 1
ENGL& 101 English Composition I (5 credits)
| Description | This course helps students become more effective writers in academic and professional settings. Students learn to enter ongoing academic conversations, analyze and use secondary sources to formulate, develop, revise, and communicate ideas in writing, and shape their message to different purposes, audiences, and media. (CC) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of ENGL 95 or placement in ENGL& 101. |
| Course Attributes |
|
MUSC& 141 Music Theory I (5 credits)
| Description | An introduction to the fundamentals of music through written notationand aural skills. Students will develop and apply the fundamental elements of music composition. Topics include pitch and rhythm notation, meter, intervals, major and minor scales, triads, and melody composition. Aural skills, including sight singing and transcription (dictation) are integrated in the curriculum. No prior experience with music is required. (H) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
MUSC 160 Class Piano I (2 credits)
| Description | This course introduces fundamentals of piano technique, repertoire, and musical literacy. Scales, modes and melody will be explored alongside elementary keyboard harmony. Working at digital pianos, this course is paced both for students beginning musical studies and for musicians active in other areas but new to the keyboard. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
MUSC 150 Applied Music Instruction I (1 credits)
| Description | Private lessons in instrumental or vocal music. Open to any student atany skill level, beginning through advanced. Instructor permission required. May be repeated for credit. Cost of lessons not included in tuition fee. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 250 Applied Music Instruction II (1 credits )
| Description | Private lessons in instrumental or vocal music. Instructor permission required. May be repeated for credit. Cost of lessons not included in tuition fee. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of MUSC 150 with a minimum grade of C. |
| Course Attributes |
|
MUSC 165 Collegiate Choir (2 credits)
| Description | Study and performance of representative compositions from the Western choral tradition, from other world cultures, and from popular genres (folk, jazz). Students will explore vocal technique and basic musicianship skills. Attendance at all performances, on and off campus, is required. Open to all students. Class is repeatable for credit up to 12 credits. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 174 Chamber Music Ensemble (2 credits )
| Description | Rehearsal, study and performance of classical repertoire for small ensemble. Various ensembles will be formed based on the available personnel. Class is repeatable for credit up to 12 credits. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 175 Jazz Band (2 credits )
| Description | Rehearsal, study, and performance of jazz styles from the 'big band' era to the present, including Afro-Cuban and other Latin genres. Attendance at all performances, on and off campus, is required. Required preparation: auditions may be required if a section of the band is filled beyond capacity. Class is repeatable for credit up to 12 credits. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 184 Ensemble Performance (2 credits )
| Description | Rehearsal and performance of standard wind band or orchestral repertoire. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 186 Contemporary Music Ensemble (2 credits )
| Description | Musical rehearsal and performance in small instrumental groups, including strings, brass, woodwinds, keyboard and percussion. Skills developed will include the study of rehearsal and performance techniques, basic improvisation, and reading and interpreting musical scores, while exploring contemporary genres. Class is repeatable for credit up to 12 credits. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
Total credits this quarter: 15
Career exploration: Find your people! Attend area-of-study activities and connect with clubs related to your career goals.
Career exploration: Attend music, dance and drama performances at WCC.
Action item: Meet with your advisor to build your degree plan.
Action item: Have your transfer-in credits officially evaluated.
Quarter 2
MATH& 107 Math In Society (5 credits)
| Description | Formerly MATH 125. Exploration of mathematical concepts with emphasis on observing closely, developing critical thinking, analyzing and synthesizing techniques, improving problem solving skills, and applying concepts to new situations. Core topics are probability and statistics. Additional topics may be chosen from a variety of math areas useful inour society. Graphing calculator required. (QSR,MS) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of MATH 088 or MATH 099 with a minimum grade of C. |
| Course Attributes |
|
MUSC& 142 Music Theory II (5 credits)
| Description | A continuation of Music Theory I. Music Theory II builds on the fundamentals of music writing, aural skills and composition mastered in Music Theory I to include species counterpoint, contrapuntal embellishment, part writing and voice leading diatonic functional harmony in 18th century SATB-style, harmonic and contextual analysis, and composition. Aural skills, including sight singing and transcription (dictation) are integrated in the curriculum. (H) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of MUSC& 141 |
| Course Attributes |
|
MUSC 161 Class Piano II (2 credits)
| Description | This course continues progressive study of piano technique, repertoire, and musical literacy. A balance of classical and jazz genres will be introduced with principles of fingering, interpretation of chord symbols and the experience of performance in ensembles. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of MUSC 160 |
| Course Attributes |
|
MUSC 150 Applied Music Instruction I (1 credits)
| Description | Private lessons in instrumental or vocal music. Open to any student atany skill level, beginning through advanced. Instructor permission required. May be repeated for credit. Cost of lessons not included in tuition fee. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 250 Applied Music Instruction II (1 credits )
| Description | Private lessons in instrumental or vocal music. Instructor permission required. May be repeated for credit. Cost of lessons not included in tuition fee. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of MUSC 150 with a minimum grade of C. |
| Course Attributes |
|
MUSC 165 Collegiate Choir (2 credits)
| Description | Study and performance of representative compositions from the Western choral tradition, from other world cultures, and from popular genres (folk, jazz). Students will explore vocal technique and basic musicianship skills. Attendance at all performances, on and off campus, is required. Open to all students. Class is repeatable for credit up to 12 credits. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 174 Chamber Music Ensemble (2 credits )
| Description | Rehearsal, study and performance of classical repertoire for small ensemble. Various ensembles will be formed based on the available personnel. Class is repeatable for credit up to 12 credits. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 175 Jazz Band (2 credits )
| Description | Rehearsal, study, and performance of jazz styles from the 'big band' era to the present, including Afro-Cuban and other Latin genres. Attendance at all performances, on and off campus, is required. Required preparation: auditions may be required if a section of the band is filled beyond capacity. Class is repeatable for credit up to 12 credits. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 184 Ensemble Performance (2 credits )
| Description | Rehearsal and performance of standard wind band or orchestral repertoire. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 186 Contemporary Music Ensemble (2 credits )
| Description | Musical rehearsal and performance in small instrumental groups, including strings, brass, woodwinds, keyboard and percussion. Skills developed will include the study of rehearsal and performance techniques, basic improvisation, and reading and interpreting musical scores, while exploring contemporary genres. Class is repeatable for credit up to 12 credits. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
Total credits this quarter: 15
Career exploration: Compare the different music majors and combined majors at universities you're interested in.
Career exploration: Attend music, dance and drama performances at Western Washington University.
Action item: If you plan to major in applied music, reach out to an applied music instructor at the universities you're interested in.
Action item: If you plan to major in music education, reach out to the coordinator of music education at universities you're interested in.
Quarter 3
MUSC& 143 Music Theory III (5 credits)
| Description | A continuation of Music Theory II. Music Theory III builds on the writing, analysis and aural skills mastered in Music Theory II to includeexpanded harmonic progressions with basic chromaticism, analysis of music of the late 18th and early 19th centuries, binary, ternary and sectional variation forms. Aural skills, including sight singing and transcription (dictation) are integrated in the curriculum. (H) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of MUSC& 142 |
| Course Attributes |
|
MUSC 162 Class Piano III (2 credits)
| Description | Concepts of harmony, transposition, improvisation, and composition will be developed at the keyboard. Repertoire will be expanded with an individual portfolio of audition pieces in varied genres compiled for each student. Performance abilities will be demonstrated through interactive ensemble playing. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of MUSC 161 |
| Course Attributes |
|
MUSC 150 Applied Music Instruction I (1 credits)
| Description | Private lessons in instrumental or vocal music. Open to any student atany skill level, beginning through advanced. Instructor permission required. May be repeated for credit. Cost of lessons not included in tuition fee. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 250 Applied Music Instruction II (1 credits )
| Description | Private lessons in instrumental or vocal music. Instructor permission required. May be repeated for credit. Cost of lessons not included in tuition fee. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of MUSC 150 with a minimum grade of C. |
| Course Attributes |
|
MUSC 165 Collegiate Choir (2 credits)
| Description | Study and performance of representative compositions from the Western choral tradition, from other world cultures, and from popular genres (folk, jazz). Students will explore vocal technique and basic musicianship skills. Attendance at all performances, on and off campus, is required. Open to all students. Class is repeatable for credit up to 12 credits. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 174 Chamber Music Ensemble (2 credits )
| Description | Rehearsal, study and performance of classical repertoire for small ensemble. Various ensembles will be formed based on the available personnel. Class is repeatable for credit up to 12 credits. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 175 Jazz Band (2 credits )
| Description | Rehearsal, study, and performance of jazz styles from the 'big band' era to the present, including Afro-Cuban and other Latin genres. Attendance at all performances, on and off campus, is required. Required preparation: auditions may be required if a section of the band is filled beyond capacity. Class is repeatable for credit up to 12 credits. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 184 Ensemble Performance (2 credits )
| Description | Rehearsal and performance of standard wind band or orchestral repertoire. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 186 Contemporary Music Ensemble (2 credits )
| Description | Musical rehearsal and performance in small instrumental groups, including strings, brass, woodwinds, keyboard and percussion. Skills developed will include the study of rehearsal and performance techniques, basic improvisation, and reading and interpreting musical scores, while exploring contemporary genres. Class is repeatable for credit up to 12 credits. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
LAB SCIENCE click for list (5 credits)
Total credits this quarter: 15
Career exploration: Create a performance bio.
Career exploration: Look for a summer job or internship related to your career goals.
Action item: Check the GPA and other entrance requirements for your future major. Are you on track?
Action item: Put the dates of university music department auditions on your calendar.
Quarter 4 (Summer)
SCIENCE click for list (5 credits)
Total credits this quarter: 5
Quarter 5
MUSC& 241 Music Theory IV (5 credits)
| Description | Study of advanced theoretical concepts of western music, including extended chromatic harmony and voice leading, advanced modulation and large-scale forms. This course integrates written topics, composition, aural skills and practical keyboard applications. (H) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of MUSC& 143 with a minimum grade of C. |
| Course Attributes |
|
MUSC 150 Applied Music Instruction I (1 credits)
| Description | Private lessons in instrumental or vocal music. Open to any student atany skill level, beginning through advanced. Instructor permission required. May be repeated for credit. Cost of lessons not included in tuition fee. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 250 Applied Music Instruction II (1 credits )
| Description | Private lessons in instrumental or vocal music. Instructor permission required. May be repeated for credit. Cost of lessons not included in tuition fee. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of MUSC 150 with a minimum grade of C. |
| Course Attributes |
|
MUSC 165 Collegiate Choir (2 credits)
| Description | Study and performance of representative compositions from the Western choral tradition, from other world cultures, and from popular genres (folk, jazz). Students will explore vocal technique and basic musicianship skills. Attendance at all performances, on and off campus, is required. Open to all students. Class is repeatable for credit up to 12 credits. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 174 Chamber Music Ensemble (2 credits )
| Description | Rehearsal, study and performance of classical repertoire for small ensemble. Various ensembles will be formed based on the available personnel. Class is repeatable for credit up to 12 credits. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 175 Jazz Band (2 credits )
| Description | Rehearsal, study, and performance of jazz styles from the 'big band' era to the present, including Afro-Cuban and other Latin genres. Attendance at all performances, on and off campus, is required. Required preparation: auditions may be required if a section of the band is filled beyond capacity. Class is repeatable for credit up to 12 credits. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 184 Ensemble Performance (2 credits )
| Description | Rehearsal and performance of standard wind band or orchestral repertoire. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 186 Contemporary Music Ensemble (2 credits )
| Description | Musical rehearsal and performance in small instrumental groups, including strings, brass, woodwinds, keyboard and percussion. Skills developed will include the study of rehearsal and performance techniques, basic improvisation, and reading and interpreting musical scores, while exploring contemporary genres. Class is repeatable for credit up to 12 credits. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
HUMANITIES click for list (5 credits)
SOCIAL SCIENCE click for list (5 credits)
Total credits this quarter: 17
Course note: your humanities course must be in a subject other than music.
Career exploration: Begin preparing for your transfer audition.
Career exploration: Create a music resume.
Action item: Meet with your advisor about applying to universities. Start your transfer applications.
Action item: Apply for next year's financial aid.
Quarter 6
MUSC& 242 Music Theory V (5 credits)
| Description | Study of advanced theoretical concepts of western music, including chromatic modulations large-scale classical forms and diatonic modes, alternative scales, sets, and early 20th century formal principles. Thiscourse integrates written topics, composition, aural skills and practical keyboard applications. (H) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of MUSC& 241 with a minimum grade of C. |
| Course Attributes |
|
MUSC 150 Applied Music Instruction I (1 credits)
| Description | Private lessons in instrumental or vocal music. Open to any student atany skill level, beginning through advanced. Instructor permission required. May be repeated for credit. Cost of lessons not included in tuition fee. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 250 Applied Music Instruction II (1 credits )
| Description | Private lessons in instrumental or vocal music. Instructor permission required. May be repeated for credit. Cost of lessons not included in tuition fee. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of MUSC 150 with a minimum grade of C. |
| Course Attributes |
|
MUSC 165 Collegiate Choir (2 credits)
| Description | Study and performance of representative compositions from the Western choral tradition, from other world cultures, and from popular genres (folk, jazz). Students will explore vocal technique and basic musicianship skills. Attendance at all performances, on and off campus, is required. Open to all students. Class is repeatable for credit up to 12 credits. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 174 Chamber Music Ensemble (2 credits )
| Description | Rehearsal, study and performance of classical repertoire for small ensemble. Various ensembles will be formed based on the available personnel. Class is repeatable for credit up to 12 credits. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 175 Jazz Band (2 credits )
| Description | Rehearsal, study, and performance of jazz styles from the 'big band' era to the present, including Afro-Cuban and other Latin genres. Attendance at all performances, on and off campus, is required. Required preparation: auditions may be required if a section of the band is filled beyond capacity. Class is repeatable for credit up to 12 credits. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 184 Ensemble Performance (2 credits )
| Description | Rehearsal and performance of standard wind band or orchestral repertoire. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 186 Contemporary Music Ensemble (2 credits )
| Description | Musical rehearsal and performance in small instrumental groups, including strings, brass, woodwinds, keyboard and percussion. Skills developed will include the study of rehearsal and performance techniques, basic improvisation, and reading and interpreting musical scores, while exploring contemporary genres. Class is repeatable for credit up to 12 credits. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
SOCIAL SCIENCE click for list (5 credits)
COMPOSITION click for list (5 credits)
or ORAL COMMUNICATION click for list (5 credits)
Total credits this quarter: 18
Career exploration: Create and/or record your own music.
Career exploration: Create a promo kit.
Action item: Apply to graduate by week 3 of this quarter.
Action item: Take auditions at university music programs.
Quarter 7
MUSC& 243 Music Theory VI (5 credits)
| Description | Study of advanced theoretical concepts of western music including pitch class sets, matrices, serialism and late 20th century styles. This course integrates written topics, composition, aural skills and practical keyboard applications. (H) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of MUSC& 242 with a minimum grade of C. |
| Course Attributes |
|
MUSC 150 Applied Music Instruction I (1 credits)
| Description | Private lessons in instrumental or vocal music. Open to any student atany skill level, beginning through advanced. Instructor permission required. May be repeated for credit. Cost of lessons not included in tuition fee. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 250 Applied Music Instruction II (1 credits )
| Description | Private lessons in instrumental or vocal music. Instructor permission required. May be repeated for credit. Cost of lessons not included in tuition fee. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of MUSC 150 with a minimum grade of C. |
| Course Attributes |
|
MUSC 165 Collegiate Choir (2 credits)
| Description | Study and performance of representative compositions from the Western choral tradition, from other world cultures, and from popular genres (folk, jazz). Students will explore vocal technique and basic musicianship skills. Attendance at all performances, on and off campus, is required. Open to all students. Class is repeatable for credit up to 12 credits. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 174 Chamber Music Ensemble (2 credits )
| Description | Rehearsal, study and performance of classical repertoire for small ensemble. Various ensembles will be formed based on the available personnel. Class is repeatable for credit up to 12 credits. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 175 Jazz Band (2 credits )
| Description | Rehearsal, study, and performance of jazz styles from the 'big band' era to the present, including Afro-Cuban and other Latin genres. Attendance at all performances, on and off campus, is required. Required preparation: auditions may be required if a section of the band is filled beyond capacity. Class is repeatable for credit up to 12 credits. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 184 Ensemble Performance (2 credits )
| Description | Rehearsal and performance of standard wind band or orchestral repertoire. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 186 Contemporary Music Ensemble (2 credits )
| Description | Musical rehearsal and performance in small instrumental groups, including strings, brass, woodwinds, keyboard and percussion. Skills developed will include the study of rehearsal and performance techniques, basic improvisation, and reading and interpreting musical scores, while exploring contemporary genres. Class is repeatable for credit up to 12 credits. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
SOCIAL SCIENCE click for list (5 credits)
MATH/SCIENCE click for list (5 credits)
Total credits this quarter: 18
Action item: Attend the spring job fair.
Course Suggestions
Oral communication skills courses
- CMST& 101 Intro to communication
- CMST& 102 Intro to mass media
- CMST& 210 Interpersonal communication (recommended for students interested in music education or private teaching)
- CMST& 230 Small group communication (recommended for students interested in music education or private teaching)
- CMST 245 Intro to organizational communication
Humanities (non-MUSC) courses
- FRCH& 121 French I
or GERM& 121 German I
Recommended for students interested in vocal performance or choral education
- DRMA& 101 Acting I
Recommended for students interested in music education or performance
- IDS 140 Making musical instruments
Recommended for any music student
Social science courses
- ANTH& 206 Cultural anthropology
Recommended for any student interested in a career in the arts
- BUS& 101 Intro to business
Recommended for students interested in music entrepreneurship
- EDUC& 202 Intro to education
Recommended for students interested in music education
- PSYC& 101 General psychology
or PSYC& 210 Child development
Recommended for students interested in music education or private teaching
Science courses
Recommended for any music student
- IDS 161 Literature, science and gender (note: not a lab course)
- IDS 210 Science, economics and politics of sustainable resources (note: not a lab course)
- PHYS& 110 Physics for non-science majors
MUSIC, ASSOCIATE IN MUSIC (DTA/MRP) (3 YEARS) (104 CREDITS)
Follow this recommended pathway to earn the Associate in Music transfer degree and prepare for a university major in music. Or you can customize your plan even more. Talk with your advisor about adapting it for your individual goals.
Scroll to the end for course suggestions.
Quarter 1
ENGL& 101 English Composition I (5 credits)
| Description | This course helps students become more effective writers in academic and professional settings. Students learn to enter ongoing academic conversations, analyze and use secondary sources to formulate, develop, revise, and communicate ideas in writing, and shape their message to different purposes, audiences, and media. (CC) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of ENGL 95 or placement in ENGL& 101. |
| Course Attributes |
|
MUSC 150 Applied Music Instruction I (1 credits)
| Description | Private lessons in instrumental or vocal music. Open to any student atany skill level, beginning through advanced. Instructor permission required. May be repeated for credit. Cost of lessons not included in tuition fee. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 250 Applied Music Instruction II (1 credits )
| Description | Private lessons in instrumental or vocal music. Instructor permission required. May be repeated for credit. Cost of lessons not included in tuition fee. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of MUSC 150 with a minimum grade of C. |
| Course Attributes |
|
MUSC 165 Collegiate Choir (2 credits)
| Description | Study and performance of representative compositions from the Western choral tradition, from other world cultures, and from popular genres (folk, jazz). Students will explore vocal technique and basic musicianship skills. Attendance at all performances, on and off campus, is required. Open to all students. Class is repeatable for credit up to 12 credits. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 174 Chamber Music Ensemble (2 credits )
| Description | Rehearsal, study and performance of classical repertoire for small ensemble. Various ensembles will be formed based on the available personnel. Class is repeatable for credit up to 12 credits. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 175 Jazz Band (2 credits )
| Description | Rehearsal, study, and performance of jazz styles from the 'big band' era to the present, including Afro-Cuban and other Latin genres. Attendance at all performances, on and off campus, is required. Required preparation: auditions may be required if a section of the band is filled beyond capacity. Class is repeatable for credit up to 12 credits. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 184 Ensemble Performance (2 credits )
| Description | Rehearsal and performance of standard wind band or orchestral repertoire. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 186 Contemporary Music Ensemble (2 credits )
| Description | Musical rehearsal and performance in small instrumental groups, including strings, brass, woodwinds, keyboard and percussion. Skills developed will include the study of rehearsal and performance techniques, basic improvisation, and reading and interpreting musical scores, while exploring contemporary genres. Class is repeatable for credit up to 12 credits. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
Total credits this quarter: 8
Career exploration: Find your people! Attend area-of-study activities and connect with clubs related to your career goals.
Career exploration: Attend music, dance and drama performances at WCC.
Action item: Meet with your advisor to build your degree plan.
Action item: Have your transfer-in credits officially evaluated.
Quarter 2
MUSC 160 Class Piano I (2 credits)
| Description | This course introduces fundamentals of piano technique, repertoire, and musical literacy. Scales, modes and melody will be explored alongside elementary keyboard harmony. Working at digital pianos, this course is paced both for students beginning musical studies and for musicians active in other areas but new to the keyboard. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
MUSC 150 Applied Music Instruction I (1 credits)
| Description | Private lessons in instrumental or vocal music. Open to any student atany skill level, beginning through advanced. Instructor permission required. May be repeated for credit. Cost of lessons not included in tuition fee. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 250 Applied Music Instruction II (1 credits )
| Description | Private lessons in instrumental or vocal music. Instructor permission required. May be repeated for credit. Cost of lessons not included in tuition fee. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of MUSC 150 with a minimum grade of C. |
| Course Attributes |
|
SOCIAL SCIENCE click for list (5 credits)
Total credits this quarter: 8
Career exploration: Compare the different music majors and combined majors at universities you're interested in.
Career exploration: Attend music, dance and drama performances at Western Washington University.
Action item: If you plan to major in applied music, reach out to an applied music instructor at the universities you're interested in.
Action item: If you plan to major in music education, reach out to the coordinator of music education at universities you're interested in.
Quarter 3
MUSC& 141 Music Theory I (5 credits)
| Description | An introduction to the fundamentals of music through written notationand aural skills. Students will develop and apply the fundamental elements of music composition. Topics include pitch and rhythm notation, meter, intervals, major and minor scales, triads, and melody composition. Aural skills, including sight singing and transcription (dictation) are integrated in the curriculum. No prior experience with music is required. (H) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
MUSC 161 Class Piano II (2 credits)
| Description | This course continues progressive study of piano technique, repertoire, and musical literacy. A balance of classical and jazz genres will be introduced with principles of fingering, interpretation of chord symbols and the experience of performance in ensembles. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of MUSC 160 |
| Course Attributes |
|
MUSC 165 Collegiate Choir (2 credits)
| Description | Study and performance of representative compositions from the Western choral tradition, from other world cultures, and from popular genres (folk, jazz). Students will explore vocal technique and basic musicianship skills. Attendance at all performances, on and off campus, is required. Open to all students. Class is repeatable for credit up to 12 credits. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 174 Chamber Music Ensemble (2 credits )
| Description | Rehearsal, study and performance of classical repertoire for small ensemble. Various ensembles will be formed based on the available personnel. Class is repeatable for credit up to 12 credits. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 175 Jazz Band (2 credits )
| Description | Rehearsal, study, and performance of jazz styles from the 'big band' era to the present, including Afro-Cuban and other Latin genres. Attendance at all performances, on and off campus, is required. Required preparation: auditions may be required if a section of the band is filled beyond capacity. Class is repeatable for credit up to 12 credits. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 184 Ensemble Performance (2 credits )
| Description | Rehearsal and performance of standard wind band or orchestral repertoire. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 186 Contemporary Music Ensemble (2 credits )
| Description | Musical rehearsal and performance in small instrumental groups, including strings, brass, woodwinds, keyboard and percussion. Skills developed will include the study of rehearsal and performance techniques, basic improvisation, and reading and interpreting musical scores, while exploring contemporary genres. Class is repeatable for credit up to 12 credits. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
Total credits this quarter: 9
Career exploration: Attend music, dance and drama performances in the community.
Career exploration: Look for a summer job or internship related to your career goals.
Quarter 4
MATH& 107 Math In Society (5 credits)
| Description | Formerly MATH 125. Exploration of mathematical concepts with emphasis on observing closely, developing critical thinking, analyzing and synthesizing techniques, improving problem solving skills, and applying concepts to new situations. Core topics are probability and statistics. Additional topics may be chosen from a variety of math areas useful inour society. Graphing calculator required. (QSR,MS) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of MATH 088 or MATH 099 with a minimum grade of C. |
| Course Attributes |
|
MUSC 150 Applied Music Instruction I (1 credits)
| Description | Private lessons in instrumental or vocal music. Open to any student atany skill level, beginning through advanced. Instructor permission required. May be repeated for credit. Cost of lessons not included in tuition fee. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 250 Applied Music Instruction II (1 credits )
| Description | Private lessons in instrumental or vocal music. Instructor permission required. May be repeated for credit. Cost of lessons not included in tuition fee. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of MUSC 150 with a minimum grade of C. |
| Course Attributes |
|
MUSC 165 Collegiate Choir (2 credits)
| Description | Study and performance of representative compositions from the Western choral tradition, from other world cultures, and from popular genres (folk, jazz). Students will explore vocal technique and basic musicianship skills. Attendance at all performances, on and off campus, is required. Open to all students. Class is repeatable for credit up to 12 credits. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 174 Chamber Music Ensemble (2 credits )
| Description | Rehearsal, study and performance of classical repertoire for small ensemble. Various ensembles will be formed based on the available personnel. Class is repeatable for credit up to 12 credits. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 175 Jazz Band (2 credits )
| Description | Rehearsal, study, and performance of jazz styles from the 'big band' era to the present, including Afro-Cuban and other Latin genres. Attendance at all performances, on and off campus, is required. Required preparation: auditions may be required if a section of the band is filled beyond capacity. Class is repeatable for credit up to 12 credits. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 184 Ensemble Performance (2 credits )
| Description | Rehearsal and performance of standard wind band or orchestral repertoire. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 186 Contemporary Music Ensemble (2 credits )
| Description | Musical rehearsal and performance in small instrumental groups, including strings, brass, woodwinds, keyboard and percussion. Skills developed will include the study of rehearsal and performance techniques, basic improvisation, and reading and interpreting musical scores, while exploring contemporary genres. Class is repeatable for credit up to 12 credits. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
COMPOSITION click for list (5 credits)
or ORAL COMMUNICATION click for list (5 credits)
Total credits this quarter: 13
Career exploration: Create a performance bio.
Action item: Apply for next year's financial aid.
Quarter 5
MUSC& 142 Music Theory II (5 credits)
| Description | A continuation of Music Theory I. Music Theory II builds on the fundamentals of music writing, aural skills and composition mastered in Music Theory I to include species counterpoint, contrapuntal embellishment, part writing and voice leading diatonic functional harmony in 18th century SATB-style, harmonic and contextual analysis, and composition. Aural skills, including sight singing and transcription (dictation) are integrated in the curriculum. (H) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of MUSC& 141 |
| Course Attributes |
|
MUSC 165 Collegiate Choir (2 credits)
| Description | Study and performance of representative compositions from the Western choral tradition, from other world cultures, and from popular genres (folk, jazz). Students will explore vocal technique and basic musicianship skills. Attendance at all performances, on and off campus, is required. Open to all students. Class is repeatable for credit up to 12 credits. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 174 Chamber Music Ensemble (2 credits )
| Description | Rehearsal, study and performance of classical repertoire for small ensemble. Various ensembles will be formed based on the available personnel. Class is repeatable for credit up to 12 credits. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 175 Jazz Band (2 credits )
| Description | Rehearsal, study, and performance of jazz styles from the 'big band' era to the present, including Afro-Cuban and other Latin genres. Attendance at all performances, on and off campus, is required. Required preparation: auditions may be required if a section of the band is filled beyond capacity. Class is repeatable for credit up to 12 credits. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 184 Ensemble Performance (2 credits )
| Description | Rehearsal and performance of standard wind band or orchestral repertoire. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 186 Contemporary Music Ensemble (2 credits )
| Description | Musical rehearsal and performance in small instrumental groups, including strings, brass, woodwinds, keyboard and percussion. Skills developed will include the study of rehearsal and performance techniques, basic improvisation, and reading and interpreting musical scores, while exploring contemporary genres. Class is repeatable for credit up to 12 credits. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
HUMANITIES click for list (5 credits)
Total credits this quarter: 12
Course note: your humanities course must be in a subject other than music.
Career exploration: Create and/or record your own music.
Quarter 6
MUSC& 143 Music Theory III (5 credits)
| Description | A continuation of Music Theory II. Music Theory III builds on the writing, analysis and aural skills mastered in Music Theory II to includeexpanded harmonic progressions with basic chromaticism, analysis of music of the late 18th and early 19th centuries, binary, ternary and sectional variation forms. Aural skills, including sight singing and transcription (dictation) are integrated in the curriculum. (H) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of MUSC& 142 |
| Course Attributes |
|
MUSC 162 Class Piano III (2 credits)
| Description | Concepts of harmony, transposition, improvisation, and composition will be developed at the keyboard. Repertoire will be expanded with an individual portfolio of audition pieces in varied genres compiled for each student. Performance abilities will be demonstrated through interactive ensemble playing. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of MUSC 161 |
| Course Attributes |
|
MUSC 150 Applied Music Instruction I (1 credits)
| Description | Private lessons in instrumental or vocal music. Open to any student atany skill level, beginning through advanced. Instructor permission required. May be repeated for credit. Cost of lessons not included in tuition fee. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 250 Applied Music Instruction II (1 credits )
| Description | Private lessons in instrumental or vocal music. Instructor permission required. May be repeated for credit. Cost of lessons not included in tuition fee. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of MUSC 150 with a minimum grade of C. |
| Course Attributes |
|
LAB SCIENCE click for list (5 credits)
Total credits this quarter: 13
Course note: If you would also like to participate in a performance ensemble for no credit, sign up through Community and Continuing Education.
Career exploration: Create a music resume.
Career exploration: Look for a summer job or internship related to your career goals.
Action item: Check the GPA and other entrance requirements for your future major. Are you on track?
Action item: Put the dates of university music department auditions on your calendar.
Quarter 7
MUSC& 241 Music Theory IV (5 credits)
| Description | Study of advanced theoretical concepts of western music, including extended chromatic harmony and voice leading, advanced modulation and large-scale forms. This course integrates written topics, composition, aural skills and practical keyboard applications. (H) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of MUSC& 143 with a minimum grade of C. |
| Course Attributes |
|
MUSC 150 Applied Music Instruction I (1 credits)
| Description | Private lessons in instrumental or vocal music. Open to any student atany skill level, beginning through advanced. Instructor permission required. May be repeated for credit. Cost of lessons not included in tuition fee. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 250 Applied Music Instruction II (1 credits )
| Description | Private lessons in instrumental or vocal music. Instructor permission required. May be repeated for credit. Cost of lessons not included in tuition fee. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of MUSC 150 with a minimum grade of C. |
| Course Attributes |
|
MUSC 165 Collegiate Choir (2 credits)
| Description | Study and performance of representative compositions from the Western choral tradition, from other world cultures, and from popular genres (folk, jazz). Students will explore vocal technique and basic musicianship skills. Attendance at all performances, on and off campus, is required. Open to all students. Class is repeatable for credit up to 12 credits. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 174 Chamber Music Ensemble (2 credits )
| Description | Rehearsal, study and performance of classical repertoire for small ensemble. Various ensembles will be formed based on the available personnel. Class is repeatable for credit up to 12 credits. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 175 Jazz Band (2 credits )
| Description | Rehearsal, study, and performance of jazz styles from the 'big band' era to the present, including Afro-Cuban and other Latin genres. Attendance at all performances, on and off campus, is required. Required preparation: auditions may be required if a section of the band is filled beyond capacity. Class is repeatable for credit up to 12 credits. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 184 Ensemble Performance (2 credits )
| Description | Rehearsal and performance of standard wind band or orchestral repertoire. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 186 Contemporary Music Ensemble (2 credits )
| Description | Musical rehearsal and performance in small instrumental groups, including strings, brass, woodwinds, keyboard and percussion. Skills developed will include the study of rehearsal and performance techniques, basic improvisation, and reading and interpreting musical scores, while exploring contemporary genres. Class is repeatable for credit up to 12 credits. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
SOCIAL SCIENCE click for list (5 credits)
Total credits this quarter: 13
Career exploration: Begin preparing for your transfer audition.
Career exploration: Prepare a promo kit.
Action item: Meet with your advisor about applying to universities. Start your transfer applications.
Action item: Apply for next year's financial aid.
Quarter 8
MUSC& 242 Music Theory V (5 credits)
| Description | Study of advanced theoretical concepts of western music, including chromatic modulations large-scale classical forms and diatonic modes, alternative scales, sets, and early 20th century formal principles. Thiscourse integrates written topics, composition, aural skills and practical keyboard applications. (H) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of MUSC& 241 with a minimum grade of C. |
| Course Attributes |
|
MUSC 150 Applied Music Instruction I (1 credits)
| Description | Private lessons in instrumental or vocal music. Open to any student atany skill level, beginning through advanced. Instructor permission required. May be repeated for credit. Cost of lessons not included in tuition fee. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 250 Applied Music Instruction II (1 credits )
| Description | Private lessons in instrumental or vocal music. Instructor permission required. May be repeated for credit. Cost of lessons not included in tuition fee. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of MUSC 150 with a minimum grade of C. |
| Course Attributes |
|
MUSC 165 Collegiate Choir (2 credits)
| Description | Study and performance of representative compositions from the Western choral tradition, from other world cultures, and from popular genres (folk, jazz). Students will explore vocal technique and basic musicianship skills. Attendance at all performances, on and off campus, is required. Open to all students. Class is repeatable for credit up to 12 credits. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 174 Chamber Music Ensemble (2 credits )
| Description | Rehearsal, study and performance of classical repertoire for small ensemble. Various ensembles will be formed based on the available personnel. Class is repeatable for credit up to 12 credits. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 175 Jazz Band (2 credits )
| Description | Rehearsal, study, and performance of jazz styles from the 'big band' era to the present, including Afro-Cuban and other Latin genres. Attendance at all performances, on and off campus, is required. Required preparation: auditions may be required if a section of the band is filled beyond capacity. Class is repeatable for credit up to 12 credits. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 184 Ensemble Performance (2 credits )
| Description | Rehearsal and performance of standard wind band or orchestral repertoire. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
or MUSC 186 Contemporary Music Ensemble (2 credits )
| Description | Musical rehearsal and performance in small instrumental groups, including strings, brass, woodwinds, keyboard and percussion. Skills developed will include the study of rehearsal and performance techniques, basic improvisation, and reading and interpreting musical scores, while exploring contemporary genres. Class is repeatable for credit up to 12 credits. (LE) |
| Enrollment Requirements | None |
| Course Attributes |
|
SCIENCE click for list (5 credits)
Total credits this quarter: 13
Action item: Apply to graduate by week 3 of this quarter.
Action item: Take auditions at university music programs.
Quarter 9
MUSC& 243 Music Theory VI (5 credits)
| Description | Study of advanced theoretical concepts of western music including pitch class sets, matrices, serialism and late 20th century styles. This course integrates written topics, composition, aural skills and practical keyboard applications. (H) |
| Enrollment Requirements | Completion of MUSC& 242 with a minimum grade of C. |
| Course Attributes |
|
SOCIAL SCIENCE click for list (5 credits)
MATH/SCIENCE click for list (5 credits)
Total credits this quarter: 15
Course note: It's optional but highly recommended that you continue your individual applied music studies (not for credit this quarter).
Course note: If you would also like to participate in a performance ensemble for no credit, sign up through Community and Continuing Education.
Action item: Attend the spring job fair.
Course Suggestions
Oral communication skills courses
- CMST& 101 Intro to communication
- CMST& 102 Intro to mass media
- CMST& 210 Interpersonal communication (recommended for students interested in music education or private teaching)
- CMST& 230 Small group communication (recommended for students interested in music education or private teaching)
- CMST 245 Intro to organizational communication
Humanities (non-MUSC) courses
- FRCH& 121 French I
or GERM& 121 German I
Recommended for students interested in vocal performance or choral education
- DRMA& 101 Acting I
Recommended for students interested in music education or performance
- IDS 140 Making musical instruments
Recommended for any music student
Social science courses
- ANTH& 206 Cultural anthropology
Recommended for any student interested in a career in the arts
- BUS& 101 Intro to business
Recommended for students interested in music entrepreneurship
- EDUC& 202 Intro to education
Recommended for students interested in music education
- PSYC& 101 General psychology
or PSYC& 210 Child development
Recommended for students interested in music education or private teaching
Science courses
Recommended for any music student
- IDS 161 Literature, science and gender (note: not a lab course)
- IDS 210 Science, economics and politics of sustainable resources (note: not a lab course)
- PHYS& 110 Physics for non-science majors