Whether you are taking music classes for enjoyment or planning to earn a degree in music and transfer to another institution, COD offers:

• Dedicated instructors with experience in the classroom and on stage. Faculty are considered among the most respected in the Chicago area and nationally. 
• Instruction in our state-of-the-art facilities using all of the latest resources.
• Affordable courses to help you achieve success without creating overwhelming debt or draining your savings account.
• Small class sizes to ensure you receive personalized attention.

Audio Production, Certificate

The Audio Production Certificate is intended for individuals interested in professional music production. This includes careers in live sound, audio recording, radio and television production, and internet production. This certificate requires 24 credits in the courses listed below.

Music Business, A.A.S.

The Music Business degree is a curriculum designed to prepare students for careers in music industry. The degree is designed for the student interested in pursuing business opportunities involving music. This program combines elements of the traditional music curriculum with business, marketing, management, and music industry courses. This degree requires 64 credits in program requirements, program electives and general education in the courses listed below.

Music, A.F.A. Music

Academic and Career Pathways give you a roadmap to achieving your career goals. Follow a pathway based on your degree or certificate that outlines which classes you need to take and when so you graduate on time or move on to the next phase in your career.

• Audio Production, Certificate
• Music Business, Associate in Applied Science
• Music, Associate in Fine Arts

Students who complete courses in General Education Music Survey courses (Music Appreciation, Intro to American Music, Introduction to World Music, and Music Literature) will:

• Demonstrate an understanding of basic musical terminology in relation to the music studied.
• Demonstrate improved listening skills, through an awareness of the elements of music.
• Recognize the major stylistic traits of selected musical traditions, cultures, and/or historical eras.
• Demonstrate an appreciation for live musical performance through attendance at relevant musical events.

Students who complete courses in Skill development— music core curriculum: (Music Theory, Aural Skills, Class Piano, and Recording Techniques) will:

Music Core

• Use their knowledge of musical elements (such as notation, melody, harmony, form, rhythm, and compositional craft) to analyze and create musical examples and compositions.
• Demonstrate aural skills, including rhythmic, melodic, and harmonic dictation, sight singing, and solfeggio.
• Demonstrate basic keyboard skills, through the performance of scales, technical exercises, and prepared pieces.
• Demonstrate an appreciation for live musical performance through attendance at relevant musical events.

Related Professional Expertise

• Demonstrate the ability to produce recorded and mixed sound projects.
• Comprehend and negotiate contracts and engage in business planning as appropriate for musicians and administrative or managerial personnel working directly with musicians

Students who complete courses in Applied Music (Includes private lessons, group lessons, and ensembles) will:

• Demonstrate improved vocal or instrumental skills acquired during the semester through private lessons and/or participation in an ensemble.
• Perform in at least one public concert or before a faculty jury (2 credit hour students must participate, 1 credit hour students may participate)
• Demonstrate a basic knowledge of the form, style, history, aesthetic, and text (if applicable) of the repertoire being prepared.

College of DuPage partners with several four-year institutions to help students seamlessly complete a bachelor’s degree in music. Students can connect with Transfer Services for personalized guidance on transfer opportunities.

For more information about Transfer Pathways, visit the College of DuPage Catalog. The pathway outlines a typical two-year course plan for completing an AA or AS degree before transferring to a four-year program. Course requirements vary by institution, so consult your faculty or academic advisor for specific guidance.

Articulation Agreements

College of DuPage maintains transfer agreements with many colleges and universities to ensure a smooth transition toward a bachelor’s degree. These agreements often include a defined course sequence. Students should regularly meet with a faculty member or Advising Services to stay on track.

• Columbia College Chicago, AA to BA in Music Business
• Columbia College Chicago, AFA Music to Bachelor of Music, Contemporary, Urban, and Popular Music
• Elmhurst University, AA to Bachelor of Music in Music Business
• Elmhurst University, AFA-Music to Bachelor of Arts in Music
• Elmhurst University, AAS to Bachelor of Music in Music Business

Transfer Guides

Beyond articulation agreements and guaranteed admission programs, College of DuPage courses transfer to many other institutions. Transfer Guides help students select COD courses that meet prerequisites for specific majors and include details such as contact information, major requirements, general education requirements, and transfer policies.