GPS Map
Performing Musician Certificate
Program Available at:
- Cedar Valley
Catalog Year 2020-2021 You may use this pathway if you entered Dallas College on or before this date.
Degree Type Level 1 Certificate
GPA Requirement Student must earn a GPA of 2.0 or higher
TSI May be Exempt
For more information, visit the Dallas College Commercial Music webpage and your academic advisor at the Cedar Valley Campus.
This is an example course sequence for students interested in pursuing Commercial Music. It does not represent a contract, nor does it guarantee course availability. Following this pathway will help you earn a Performing Musician Level I Certificate. Courses from this certificate may apply to the related AAS degree. Students must earn at least 25% of the credit hours required for graduation through instruction by Dallas College. See catalog for official certificate requirements.
This program is designed to prepare the instrumental or vocal student for entry-level positions in the live performing market of commercial music (jazz, rock, pop, country, etc.) with enough training provided for a strong foundation to build upon. Coursework includes development of music theory written and aural skills, keyboard introduction, audio engineering and MIDI skills, and development of improvisation skills and repertoire applicable to the individual student. Courses that complete the Certificate are noted below.
Students pursuing this certificate are waived from the Texas Success Initiative (TSI) standards, but must meet course prerequisites.
SEMESTER-BY-SEMESTER MAP FOR FULL-TIME STUDENTS
All plans can be modified to fit the needs of part-time students. This is not an official degree plan. See catalog for official certificate requirements.
CERTIFICATE MINIMUM: 26 SEMESTER CREDIT HOURS
SEMESTER 1
MUSC 1313 – Commercial Music Theory I
MUSC 2314 – Improvisation Theory I
MUSB 1305 – Survey of the Music Business
MUSI 1310 – American Music This is a Core course.
COMMERCIAL MUSIC ENSEMBLE ELECTIVE*
APPLIED COMMERCIAL MUSIC ELECTIVE**
CHOOSE ONE:
- MUSP 2103 – Commercial Class Piano
- MUSP 1110 – Applied Commercial Music: Piano OR
- MUSP 1123 – Applied Commercial Music: Synthesizer
* Commercial Music Ensemble Elective courses must be selected from the following: MUSP 1142, MUSP 1150, MUSP 1151, MUSP 1153, or MUSP 2106
** Applied Commercial Music Elective must be selected from the following: MUSP 1101, MUSP 1104, MUSP 1105, MUSP 1110, MUSP 1117, MUSP 1123, MUSP 1127, MUSP 1201, MUSP 1204, MUSP 1205, MUSP 1210, MUSP 1217, MUSP 1223, MUSP 1227
SEMESTER 1 ACTION ITEMS
- Meet with your advisor to confirm academic and career goals before the end of the semester.
- Meet with a career advisor or coach to research your career options and opportunities for job shadowing.
Total Hours: 15-16
SEMESTER 2
MUSC 2141 – Forum/Recital Intended for repeatability for advanced practice.
MUSP 1391 – Special Topics in Music-General Performance (capstone)
MUSP 1242 – Small Commercial Music Ensemble
COMMERCIAL MUSIC ENSEMBLE ELECTIVE*
APPLIED COMMERCIAL MUSIC ELECTIVE**
CHOOSE ONE:
* Commercial Music Ensemble Elective courses must be selected from the following: MUSP 1142, MUSP 1150, MUSP 1151, MUSP 1153, or MUSP 2106
** Applied Commercial Music Elective must be selected from the following: MUSP 1101, MUSP 1104, MUSP 1105, MUSP 1110, MUSP 1117, MUSP 1123, MUSP 1127, MUSP 1201, MUSP 1204, MUSP 1205, MUSP 1210, MUSP 1217, MUSP 1223, MUSP 1227
SEMESTER 2 ACTION ITEMS
- Meet with your advisor to request an official program of study audit and confirm or update your academic/career path and program of study.
- Meet with a career advisor or coach for assistance in preparing for job search.
- Meet with your advisor to apply for the Performing Musician Certificate.
Total Hours: 11-12
PATHWAY TOTAL: 26-28 SEMESTER CREDIT HOURS