Build Your Future in Commercial Music
The Commercial Music Associate in Arts Degree will provide the student with curriculum that leads to training for those who do not plan to transfer to a four-year university or college. The emphasis is upon preparation of the performer, composer, or arranger. Upon degree completion, the student will be able to describe and execute the basic concepts of songwriting, in respect to melody, harmony and rhythm.
For additional information, visit the Fullerton College Music Department website: http://music.fullcoll.edu
Degrees & Certificates
- Apply online at fullcoll.edu
- Apply for financial aid: fafsa.ed.gov
- Take the online orientation
- Take assessment exam
- Meet with a Counselor
- Update Personal info in My Gateway
- Register for classes
- Pay fees
Michael Scott
Music Department Chair
mscott@fullcoll.edu
714.992.7285
Frequently Asked Questions
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HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
The cost is $46 per unit. Non-resident tuition: $258 per unit PLUS enrollment fees (Non-Resident Tuition includes $19.00 Capital Outlay fee per Ed Code 76141).
Costs may vary; please visit website for more information: http://admissions.fullcoll.edu/fees-refunds/.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE?
Associate degree or certificate completion depends on program unit requirements and whether student is enrolled full-time or part-time.
WHAT ARE THE JOBS AND HOW MUCH DO THEY PAY?
For information on jobs in this industry sector and their median annual salaries visit: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/.
Career opportunities:
• Composer
• Creative Director
• Film Composer
• Jingle Writer
• Music Arranger
• Music Composer
• Music Producer
• Songwriter
WHAT IS THE JOB OUTLOOK?
Employment of musicians and singers is projected to grow 6 percent from 2016 to 2026, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Growth will be attributed to increases in demand for musical performances.
Digital downloads and streaming platforms make it easier for fans to listen to recordings and view performances. Easier access to recordings gives musicians more publicity and grows interest in their work, and concertgoers may become interested in seeing them perform live. Moreover, some musicians and singers license their music for use in advertisements or for other commercial purposes, creating more exposure and revenue opportunities.
There may be some additional demand for musicians to serve as session musicians and backup artists for recordings and to go on tour. Singers may be needed to sing backup and to make recordings for commercials, films, and television.
However, employment growth will likely be limited in orchestras, opera companies, and other musical groups because they can have difficulty getting funding. Some musicians and singers work for nonprofit organizations that rely on donations, government funding, and corporate sponsorships, in addition to ticket sales, to fund their work. During economic downturns, these organizations may have trouble finding enough funding to cover their expenses.
Contact Our Department
Average Salary in this Field
$11,810 to
$72,820 Per Year
Careers in this Field
Music Producer
Songwriter
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Character Artist at MGA Entertainment
“I’ve recently become a Character Artist at MGA Entertainment and I owe it all to the Digital Arts CTE program at Fullerton College. Every single class I took helped me build a portfolio that was competitive enough to land me a job where all of my coworkers come from private colleges, and I think that’s pretty cool. Not only are the classes very useful but the professors that teach them are as well. They have endless amounts of knowledge and experience in their fields and are super eager to help their students. I am very proud and grateful to have been a part of the CTE program and I can’t wait to see where I go in the future thanks to Fullerton College.”
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