Commercial Music
A.A. Degree Commercial Music · Laney College · 2026-2027 Catalog
The Associate in Arts Degree in Commercial Music is designed for music students whose career goals are focused on the recording industry, concert promotions, and other commercial ventures. Students will explore aspects of the music production process including: recording, marketing, and distribution.
Career Opportunities
Audio Engineer, Digital Sound Editor, Small Business Entrepreneur, Concert Promoter, Manager, Event Producer, Arranger, Songwriter.
Program Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this program a student will be able to:
- Students will employ proper audio engineering and midi techniques to produce sound recording projects.
- Students will create original music projects in line with current industry standards.
- Analyze a situation in the music industry and recommend a solution or plan for improvement.
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| Group 1: Core Courses (13 units): | 13 | |
| MUSIC-CM 1A | Beginning MIDI and Electronic Music | 3 |
| MUSIC-CM 2A | Introduction to Songwriting | 3 |
| MUSIC-CM 3A | Introduction to Live Sound Systems | 2 |
| MUSIC-CM 4A | Introduction to Music Business | 3 |
| MUSIC-CM 5A | Recording I | 2 |
| Group 2: Electives (7-9 units from the following): | 7-9 | |
| MUSIC-CM 1B | Intermediate MIDI and Electronic Music | 3 |
| MUSIC-CM 1C | Advanced MIDI and Electronic Music | 3 |
| MUSIC-CM 2B | Intermediate Songwriting | 3 |
| MUSIC-CM 2C | Advanced Songwriting | 3 |
| MUSIC-CM 3B | Intermediate Sound Systems | 2 |
| MUSIC-CM 3C | Advanced Sound Systems | 2 |
| MUSIC-CM 4B | Intermediate Music Business | 3 |
| MUSIC-CM 4C | Advanced Music Business | 3 |
| MUSIC-CM 5B | Recording II | 2 |
| MUSIC-CM 5C | Recording III | 2 |
| MUSIC-CM 460 | Work Experience in Commercial Music | 1-4 |
| MUSIC 100 | Music Fundamentals and Culture | 3 |
| MUSIC 101 | Music Theory and Culture I | 3 |
| MUSIC 105 | Classic Guitar I | 1 |
| MUSIC 117 | Voice I | 1 |
| MUSIC 130 | Elementary Piano Method I | 1 |
| MUSIC 151 | Pop Music Ensemble | 1 |
| Total Major Units: | 20-22 | |
| General Education Requirements: | 21 | |
| Elective courses to meet 60 | 0 | |
| Total Units: | 60 | |