Music

Our Music Associate of Arts (AA) degree typically takes two years. You can choose one of four study options. Our certificate takes up to one year to complete.

Music education at El Camino focuses on the theory, history, production, and performance of music. You’ll receive structured, hands-on training and the support you need to succeed.

Earn a Degree that Can Lead to a Career or University Transfer

Certificates/Degrees Description: Many students want to start their career right after earning a degree; others choose to transfer and earn a bachelor’s degree and beyond. We can help you discover the best path for you.

Music Associate of Arts (AA) Degree

Customize your education based on your interests and study music on a pathway to enter a rewarding career. Explore options with classroom instruction, hands-on training, and opportunities to practice outside the classroom.

• Earn a degree in in a single subject category or in the combined general music option:
  • Voice Option
  • Instrumental Option
  • Keyboard Option
  • Commercial Music Option
  • General Music Option
• Train in a variety of solo performance media, large and small ensembles, music theory and musicianship, basic vocal, keyboard, and instrumental skills in many styles and genres.
• Take classes in music appreciation, theory and musicianship, music history, sight singing, jazz, voice, opera, piano, guitar, choir, band, orchestra, and private lessons in all performing media.
• Meet transfer requirements and continue your education at a university.

Commercial Music Certificate of Achievement

Learn the major components of the music industry and explore job opportunities.

• Learn about publishing, copyrights, and recording/production contracts.
• Analyze industry trends and develop a comprehensive business plan.
• Gain a foundation in music, electronic music studios, and digital and audio recording.

Pursue an Entry-Level Job in Music or Further Your Education

Once you graduate, you can choose to work right away, or transfer and earn a bachelor’s degree and beyond. We’re here to help you identify career options and decide on the best step after graduation.

• Work in a broad range of career positions such as musician/performer, conductor, composer, arranger, film music editor, commercial music, music educator, music technology, recording technician, and music software programmer.
• Learn from dedicated professors who are also accomplished working professionals.
• Access additional career opportunities with more education: music therapist, high school teacher, professor, and lawyer.
• Careers associated with this program have a salary range from $20,000 to $145,000 with an average salary of $69,000.

Build Your Skills and Networking Beyond the Classroom

Gain hands-on training and performance opportunities that take your studies out of the classroom.

• Take advantage of El Camino’s many performance opportunities including orchestra, concert band, jazz band, small ensembles, chorale, concert choir, community choir, and women's choir.
• Attend master classes and performances by nationally and internationally acclaimed artists at El Camino’s Center for the Arts.
• Visit the Music Commons with over 10,000 items of performance-oriented music scores, sound recordings, and videos; you can also use PC-based listening and media stations, musical equipment, and practice facilities, many with grand pianos.
• Learn in Music Department classrooms complete with audio and video technology, 14 practice rooms with pianos and sound systems, two piano labs, a large instrumental music rehearsal hall, a choral rehearsal room, and three concert venues. Musical instruments are available for student use.
• Join a club such as the ECC Society of Music and interact with fellow music students.