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Associate of Arts Degree
Music: Composition, Performance, and Improvisation for Contemporary Music Practices

The Associate of Arts Degree in Music: Composition, Performance, and Improvisation for Contemporary Music Practices is a two-year program designed to prepare students for the continued study of music and/or future professional employment in the field of music. Students entering the program with the intent to perform and/ or compose will gain valuable experience and performance skills performing in, and composing for our various choirs and our unique multi-instrument ensembles. The various levels of study in vocal, instrumental, theory, musicianship, keyboard skills, music technology, and composition will supply students with the necessary abilities to excel in those areas when they complete the music program at Rio Hondo College.

Please contact the Student Success Team for this program if you have any questions.

Apply Now!


Sample Education Plan

This sample education plan for the 2024-2025 catalog year represents one possible pathway through the program. Each university (UC, CSU, private, and others) has their own transfer requirements; please see a counselor to create an education plan that is customized to meet your needs. Additional course descriptions may be found in the College Catalog.
Select sample path/map:
CourseUnitsTypically Offered
1st Semester
MUST 101 - Introduction to Music TechnologyM3.0
MUST 101 - Introduction to Music Technology (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to read college-level texts.
Transfers to:CSU

This course is designed for the student who wants to learn the terminology, equipment, techniques, and concepts of music technology. Focus will be on principles and practices of sound, digital audio, synthesis, Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI), MIDI sequencing, notation software, and audio recording utilizing hardware and software platforms. Lab activities will place an emphasis on the operation and components of the typical MIDI and digital audio lab (hardware and software). Students will complete independent projects demonstrating hands-on knowledge.

MUS 103 - Music Theory IM3.0
MUS 103 - Music Theory I (3.0 units)

Corequisite:MUS 106
Advisory:It is advised that students be able to read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

Through guided composition and analysis, this course incorporates the following concepts: rhythm and meter; basic properties of sound; intervals; diatonic scales and triads; diatonic chords, basic cadential formulas and phrase structure; dominant seventh; figured bass symbols; and non-harmonic tones. Development of skills in handwritten notation is expected.

MUS 106 - Musicianship IM1.0
MUS 106 - Musicianship I (1.0 units)

Corequisite: MUS 103
Advisory:It is advised that students be able to read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is designed for students who want to develop beginning aural recognition, sight-singing, and dictation skills. It is recommended for all instrumentalists, singers, and composers, and required for all music majors.

Select One: MUS 116 / MUS 120 / MUS 216 / MUS 234 M1.0†
Notes:
Choose a performance group from the following list and it must be taken four times in four different semesters.

MUS 116 - Diverse Instruments Ensemble (1.0 units)

Advisory:MUS 101
Prerequisite:Successful audition with instructor approval required prior to enrollment to demonstrate proficiency of entry skills.

Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is designed for electric instrumental students, acoustic instrumental students, and vocal students who are at a beginning or intermediate level. Students perform together in one ensemble. The content is arranged for the instrumental and vocal makeup of the class and includes a diversity of styles such as popular, jazz, and contemporary classical music. Improvisation is introduced at a beginning and intermediate level appropriate to the style.

MUS 120 - Concert Choir (1.0 units)

Prerequiste:Successful audition with instructor approval required prior to enrollment to demonstrate proficiency of entry skills.
Advisory:This course is designed for students who seek the skills needed to study, rehearse, and perform literature within a large vocal ensemble. Participation in public performance is required. The repertoire includes a diversity of selections including classical choral literature, world music, popular and contemporary music. Previous choral experience is not required. This course may be taken for credit up to four times for a total of 4 units.

MUS 216 - Industrial Orchestra (2.0 units)

Prerequisite:Successful audition with instructor approval required prior to enrollment to demonstrate proficiency of entry skills.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is designed for advanced electric instrumental students, acoustic instrumental students, and vocal students to broaden their abilities to perform and improvise in an ensemble as well as record in the studio. The ensemble content is arranged for the instrumental and vocal makeup of the class, and includes a range of styles that include contemporary classical, popular, film and video game music, and electroacoustic music. Río Hondo College composition students may also arrange and compose for this performance group. This course may be taken for credit up to four times for a total of 8 units.

MUS 234 - Advanced Chamber Singers (2.0 units)

Prerequisite:Successful audition with instructor approval required prior to enrollment to demonstrate proficiency of entry skills.
Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is designed for students with advanced skills in rehearsing and performing choral music. A wide variety of music selected from different musical periods and styles will be selected for study and performance. This course may be taken up to four (4) times for a total of eight (8) units.

MUS 181 - Applied MusicM0.5
MUS 181 - Applied Music (0.5 units)

Prerequisite:Enrollment requires an audition
Corequisite:MUS 116 or MUS 120 or MUS 216 or MUS 234
Advisory: It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is for students interested in receiving individual instruction in voice, piano, guitar, band, or orchestral instruments with an assigned instructor. Emphasis is placed on study at the beginning level of technique and repertoire. Each week, the course includes one recital class and one individual lesson. Performance for a faculty jury is required at the end of the semester. This course may be taken for credit up to 4 times for a total of 2 units.

ENGL 101 - College Composition and Research (RHC GE 1b and 8a)GE3.5
ENGL 101 - College Composition and Research (3.5 units)

Prerequisite:Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or eligibility for college composition.
Transfers to:UC, CSU

This composition course enables students to generate logical, coherent essays that incorporate sources necessary for academic and professional success. Students become proficient in researching, evaluating, and incorporating sources, and in learning critical reading and thinking skills through expository and persuasive reading selections before applying these skills to creating original documented essays. The writing workshop component of the course is designed to assist students with improving and refining their writing and language skills: Students complete writing workshop activities that enhance their ability to compose logical, well-supported arguments that exhibit grammatical fluency and correct citation styles. Students meet with composition instructors through individual or small group conferences that address students’ specific writing concerns. This course is designed for students who wish to fulfill the General Education requirement for Written Communication.

RHC GE 3 - Physical EducationGE1.0

Select one: KINA or DANC activity course.
Students who have completed a Fire, Police, Wildland Fire, or Corrections Academy from an accredited institution are automatically waived from this requirement, as are students with a DD214 on file. Exemption may be granted to those students physically unable to complete this requirement. Exemption forms are available in Student Health & Psychological Services.

Total Semester Units:13.0† 
2nd Semester
MUS 104 - Music Theory IIM3.0
MUS 104 - Music Theory II (3.0 units)

Prerequisite:MUS 103
Corequisite:MUS 107
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course incorporates the concepts from Music Theory I. In addition, through guided composition and analysis, the course includes an introduction to two-part counterpoint; voice leading involving four-part chorale writing; diatonic harmony; and an introduction to secondary/applied chords and modulation.

MUS 107 - Musicianship IIM1.0
MUS 107 - Musicianship II (1.0 units)

Prerequisite: MUS 106
Corequisite: MUS 104
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is designed for students who want to develop the rhythmic, melodic, and harmonic materials of MUS 104 (Music Theory II) through ear training, sight singing, analysis, and dictation. This course is required for all music majors.

MUS 145 - Piano IM1.0
MUS 145 - Piano I (1.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is part of the music core, and intended for music majors. Course material includes basic technique and notation, major and minor five finger patterns, major scales, sight reading, and basic chord progressions as they are encountered in beginning piano music.

Select one: MUS 116 / MUS 120 / MUS 216 / MUS 234 M1.0†
Notes:
Choose a performance group from the following list and it must be taken four times in four different semesters.

MUS 116 - Diverse Instruments Ensemble (1.0 units)

Advisory:MUS 101
Prerequisite:Successful audition with instructor approval required prior to enrollment to demonstrate proficiency of entry skills.

Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is designed for electric instrumental students, acoustic instrumental students, and vocal students who are at a beginning or intermediate level. Students perform together in one ensemble. The content is arranged for the instrumental and vocal makeup of the class and includes a diversity of styles such as popular, jazz, and contemporary classical music. Improvisation is introduced at a beginning and intermediate level appropriate to the style.

MUS 120 - Concert Choir (1.0 units)

Prerequiste:Successful audition with instructor approval required prior to enrollment to demonstrate proficiency of entry skills.
Advisory:This course is designed for students who seek the skills needed to study, rehearse, and perform literature within a large vocal ensemble. Participation in public performance is required. The repertoire includes a diversity of selections including classical choral literature, world music, popular and contemporary music. Previous choral experience is not required. This course may be taken for credit up to four times for a total of 4 units.

MUS 216 - Industrial Orchestra (2.0 units)

Prerequisite:Successful audition with instructor approval required prior to enrollment to demonstrate proficiency of entry skills.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is designed for advanced electric instrumental students, acoustic instrumental students, and vocal students to broaden their abilities to perform and improvise in an ensemble as well as record in the studio. The ensemble content is arranged for the instrumental and vocal makeup of the class, and includes a range of styles that include contemporary classical, popular, film and video game music, and electroacoustic music. Río Hondo College composition students may also arrange and compose for this performance group. This course may be taken for credit up to four times for a total of 8 units.

MUS 234 - Advanced Chamber Singers (2.0 units)

Prerequisite:Successful audition with instructor approval required prior to enrollment to demonstrate proficiency of entry skills.
Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is designed for students with advanced skills in rehearsing and performing choral music. A wide variety of music selected from different musical periods and styles will be selected for study and performance. This course may be taken up to four (4) times for a total of eight (8) units.

MUS 181 - Applied MusicM0.5
MUS 181 - Applied Music (0.5 units)

Prerequisite:Enrollment requires an audition
Corequisite:MUS 116 or MUS 120 or MUS 216 or MUS 234
Advisory: It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is for students interested in receiving individual instruction in voice, piano, guitar, band, or orchestral instruments with an assigned instructor. Emphasis is placed on study at the beginning level of technique and repertoire. Each week, the course includes one recital class and one individual lesson. Performance for a faculty jury is required at the end of the semester. This course may be taken for credit up to 4 times for a total of 2 units.

Select one: MATH 150 / FIN 101 (RHC GE 2)GE3.0
Notes:
While the above course(s) are recommended, students may take any of the following courses to fulfill this requirement:  FIN 101, MATH 060, MATH 073, MATH 130/H, MATH 140, MATH 150, MATH 160, MATH 170, MATH 175, MATH 180, MATH 190/H, PSY 190.

MATH 150 - Survey of Mathematics (3.0 units)

Prerequisite:Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or completion of an intermediate algebra course.
Transfers to: CSU, UC

In this course students will learn to read and understand quantitative information, solve practical problems, and make sound decisions using numbers. Topics include consumer applications, logic, probability, statistics, algebra, and geometry. This course is for students who need a quantitative reasoning course for graduation or transfer.

FIN 101 - Introduction to Financial Planning (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to read college-level texts.
Prerequisite:Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or completion of an elementary algebra course.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course provides an overview of the fundamentals of financial planning, and is designed to provide students with tools needed to achieve their personal financial goals. Students learn to make informed decisions related to spending, saving, borrowing, and investing by applying quantitative reasoning concepts. Course topics include the financial planning process, budgeting, cash flow, debt consolidation, investing, and retirement planning.

RHC GE 4 - American InstitutionsGE3.0

Note: All honors courses have a prerequisite.

Select one:
POLS 110, 110H;
HIST 143, 143H, 144, 144H, 156, 157, 158, 159, 159H, 170

Total Semester Units:12.5† 
Summer 1
RHC GE 5 - Natural Science with LabGE4.0

Note: All honors courses have a prerequisite.

Select one Natural Science with Lab:
ANTH 101, 101H & 101L;
ASTR 110, 110H & 112, 137;
BIOL 101, 105 & 105L, 111 & 111L, 112, 120 & 120L;
BIOT 100;
CHEM 110, 120, 130;
GEOG 101 & 101L;
GEOL 150 & 151, 152 & 152L;
PHY 120, 150, 160, 211, 212, 213

RHC GE 7a - Fine ArtsGE3.0

Note: All honors courses have a prerequisite.

Select one:
ARCH 103
ART 101, 104, 105, 105H, 106, 106H, 107, 108, 109, 110, 112, 113, 115, 117, 120, 130, 135, 140;
DANC 179, 179H, 199, 199H;
GDSN 110:
MUS 101, 129, 130, 131, 132, 133, 135, 136;
MUST 151, 152;
PHTO 110, 130;
THTR 101, 105, 105H, 110, 150

Total Semester Units:7.0 
3rd Semester
MUS 105 - Music Theory IIIM3.0
MUS 105 - Music Theory III (3.0 units)

Prerequisite:MUS 104
Corequisite:MUS 156
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course incorporates the concepts learned in MUS 104 (Music Theory II). In addition, through writing and analysis, the course introduces students to chromatic harmony, secondary/applied chords, modulation, borrowed chords, and Neapolitan and augmented-sixth chords.

MUS 156 - Musicianship IIIM1.0
MUS 156 - Musicianship III (1.0 units)

Prerequisite:MUS 107
Corequisite: MUS 105
Transfers to:UC, CSU

This course is designed for the student who wants to develop the rhythmic, melodic, and harmonic materials of MUS 105 (Music Theory III) through ear training, sight singing analysis and dictation. This course is required of all music majors.

MUS 146 - Piano IIM1.0
MUS 146 - Piano II (1.0 units)

Prerequisite: MUS 145
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is part of the music core, and is intended for music majors. Course material includes piano technique, major scales and arpeggios, sight reading, chord progressions, harmonization, and transposition skills as encountered in upper-beginning/early intermediate piano music.

Select one: MUS 116 / MUS 120 / MUS 216 / MUS 234 M1.0†
Notes:
Choose a performance group from the following list and it must be taken four times in four different semesters.

MUS 116 - Diverse Instruments Ensemble (1.0 units)

Advisory:MUS 101
Prerequisite:Successful audition with instructor approval required prior to enrollment to demonstrate proficiency of entry skills.

Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is designed for electric instrumental students, acoustic instrumental students, and vocal students who are at a beginning or intermediate level. Students perform together in one ensemble. The content is arranged for the instrumental and vocal makeup of the class and includes a diversity of styles such as popular, jazz, and contemporary classical music. Improvisation is introduced at a beginning and intermediate level appropriate to the style.

MUS 120 - Concert Choir (1.0 units)

Prerequiste:Successful audition with instructor approval required prior to enrollment to demonstrate proficiency of entry skills.
Advisory:This course is designed for students who seek the skills needed to study, rehearse, and perform literature within a large vocal ensemble. Participation in public performance is required. The repertoire includes a diversity of selections including classical choral literature, world music, popular and contemporary music. Previous choral experience is not required. This course may be taken for credit up to four times for a total of 4 units.

MUS 216 - Industrial Orchestra (2.0 units)

Prerequisite:Successful audition with instructor approval required prior to enrollment to demonstrate proficiency of entry skills.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is designed for advanced electric instrumental students, acoustic instrumental students, and vocal students to broaden their abilities to perform and improvise in an ensemble as well as record in the studio. The ensemble content is arranged for the instrumental and vocal makeup of the class, and includes a range of styles that include contemporary classical, popular, film and video game music, and electroacoustic music. Río Hondo College composition students may also arrange and compose for this performance group. This course may be taken for credit up to four times for a total of 8 units.

MUS 234 - Advanced Chamber Singers (2.0 units)

Prerequisite:Successful audition with instructor approval required prior to enrollment to demonstrate proficiency of entry skills.
Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is designed for students with advanced skills in rehearsing and performing choral music. A wide variety of music selected from different musical periods and styles will be selected for study and performance. This course may be taken up to four (4) times for a total of eight (8) units.

MUS 181 - Applied MusicM0.5
MUS 181 - Applied Music (0.5 units)

Prerequisite:Enrollment requires an audition
Corequisite:MUS 116 or MUS 120 or MUS 216 or MUS 234
Advisory: It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is for students interested in receiving individual instruction in voice, piano, guitar, band, or orchestral instruments with an assigned instructor. Emphasis is placed on study at the beginning level of technique and repertoire. Each week, the course includes one recital class and one individual lesson. Performance for a faculty jury is required at the end of the semester. This course may be taken for credit up to 4 times for a total of 2 units.

RHC GE 8b - Communication/Analytical ThinkingGE3.0†

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
† some classes may have higher units.

Select one:
CIT 101, 125, 135;
ENGL 125, 201, 201H;
FIN 101;
GIS 120;
MATH 130, 130H, 140, 150, 160, 170, 175, 180, 190, 190H, 191, 250, 251, 260, 270;
PHIL 110, 110H, 112, 112H, 115;
PSY 190;
SPCH 100, 100H, 101, 101H, 120, 140;
READ 101;
VOCB 101

RHC GE 6 - Social and Behavioral ScienceGE3.0

Note: All honors courses have a prerequisite.

Select one:
AJ 101
ANTH 102, 102H, 103, 104, 110, 115, 125;
CD 106, 208;
CHST 101, 146, 148, 148H, 150;
ECON 101, 101H, 102, 102H, 106, 135;
EGSS 110, 120, 130;
GEOG 102, 103;
HIST 101, 102, 122, 131, 143, 143H, 144, 144H, 156, 157, 158, 159, 159H, 167, 170;
HUM 110, 111, 125, 125H, 130;
KIN 170, 190, 195
MSCM 103, 128;
PHIL 128, 128H, 135;
POLS 110, 110H, 115, 125, 128, 128H, 130, 135,140,150;
PSY 101, 101H, 112, 114, 180, 200;
SOC 101, 101H, 102, 105, 110, 114, 116, 120, 127, 130;
SPCH 150

RHC GE 3 - Physical EducationGE1.0

Select one: KINA or DANC activity course.
Students who have completed a Fire, Police, Wildland Fire, or Corrections Academy from an accredited institution are automatically waived from this requirement, as are students with a DD214 on file. Exemption may be granted to those students physically unable to complete this requirement. Exemption forms are available in Student Health & Psychological Services.

Total Semester Units:13.5† 
4th Semester
MUS 206 - Music Theory IVM3.0
MUS 206 - Music Theory IV (3.0 units)

Prerequisite: MUS 105
Corequisite: MUS 157
Transfers to:UC, CSU

This course is designed for students who want an introduction to the materials and the major trends and movements of the 20th- and 21st centuries. Students gain techniques for motivic and harmonic analysis, improvisation, and listening strategies for addressing this repertoire, and will both compose and perform as a class following the models of masterworks of the last 100 years.

MUS 157 - Musicianship IVM1.0
MUS 157 - Musicianship IV (1.0 units)

Prerequisite: MUS 156
Corequisite: MUS 206
Transfers to:UC, CSU

This course is designed for students who want to develop the rhythmic, melodic, and harmonic materials of MUS 105 (Music Theory III) through ear training, sight singing, analysis, and dictation. This course is required for all music majors.

MUS 147 - Piano IIIM1.0
MUS 147 - Piano III (1.0 units)

Prerequisite: MUS 146
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is part of the music core, and is intended for music majors. Course material includes piano technique, all major and minor scales and arpeggios, sight reading, expanded chord progressions, harmonization, and transposition skills as encountered in intermediate piano music.

Select one: MUS 116 / MUS 120 / MUS 216 / MUS 234 M1.0†
Notes:
Choose a performance group from the following list and it must be taken four times in four different semesters.

MUS 116 - Diverse Instruments Ensemble (1.0 units)

Advisory:MUS 101
Prerequisite:Successful audition with instructor approval required prior to enrollment to demonstrate proficiency of entry skills.

Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is designed for electric instrumental students, acoustic instrumental students, and vocal students who are at a beginning or intermediate level. Students perform together in one ensemble. The content is arranged for the instrumental and vocal makeup of the class and includes a diversity of styles such as popular, jazz, and contemporary classical music. Improvisation is introduced at a beginning and intermediate level appropriate to the style.

MUS 120 - Concert Choir (1.0 units)

Prerequiste:Successful audition with instructor approval required prior to enrollment to demonstrate proficiency of entry skills.
Advisory:This course is designed for students who seek the skills needed to study, rehearse, and perform literature within a large vocal ensemble. Participation in public performance is required. The repertoire includes a diversity of selections including classical choral literature, world music, popular and contemporary music. Previous choral experience is not required. This course may be taken for credit up to four times for a total of 4 units.

MUS 216 - Industrial Orchestra (2.0 units)

Prerequisite:Successful audition with instructor approval required prior to enrollment to demonstrate proficiency of entry skills.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is designed for advanced electric instrumental students, acoustic instrumental students, and vocal students to broaden their abilities to perform and improvise in an ensemble as well as record in the studio. The ensemble content is arranged for the instrumental and vocal makeup of the class, and includes a range of styles that include contemporary classical, popular, film and video game music, and electroacoustic music. Río Hondo College composition students may also arrange and compose for this performance group. This course may be taken for credit up to four times for a total of 8 units.

MUS 234 - Advanced Chamber Singers (2.0 units)

Prerequisite:Successful audition with instructor approval required prior to enrollment to demonstrate proficiency of entry skills.
Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is designed for students with advanced skills in rehearsing and performing choral music. A wide variety of music selected from different musical periods and styles will be selected for study and performance. This course may be taken up to four (4) times for a total of eight (8) units.

Select one: MUS 130 / MUS 131 M3.0
MUS 130 - Music History and Literature Before 1750 (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college level-texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is for students who seek an introduction to the major composers and musical movements from antiquity to the 1700s. The course focuses on learning, reasoning, and writing about the music of these periods with the goal of understanding their social, political, and cultural contexts. In addition, these periods will be compared to contemporary culture and its social, political, and cultural framework.

MUS 131 - Music History and Literature After 1750 (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college level-texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is for students who seek an introduction to the major composers and musical movements from 1750 to the present. The course focuses on learning, reasoning, and writing about the music of these periods with the goal of understanding their social, political, and cultural contexts. In addition, these periods will be compared to contemporary culture and its social, political, and cultural framework.

MUS 181 - Applied MusicM0.5
MUS 181 - Applied Music (0.5 units)

Prerequisite:Enrollment requires an audition
Corequisite:MUS 116 or MUS 120 or MUS 216 or MUS 234
Advisory: It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is for students interested in receiving individual instruction in voice, piano, guitar, band, or orchestral instruments with an assigned instructor. Emphasis is placed on study at the beginning level of technique and repertoire. Each week, the course includes one recital class and one individual lesson. Performance for a faculty jury is required at the end of the semester. This course may be taken for credit up to 4 times for a total of 2 units.

RHC GE 7b - HumanitiesGE3.0†

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
† some classes may have higher units. 

Select one:
ANTH 104;
ASL 101, 124, 201, 202;
CHIN 101, 102;
CHST 101, 146, 148, 148H, 150;
EGSS 130;
ENGL 126, 131;
FR 101, 102, 201, 202;
HIST 101, 102, 122, 131, 143, 143H, 144, 144H, 156, 157, 158, 159, 159H, 167, 170;
HUM 110, 111, 125, 125H, 130, 140, 145;
JAPN 101, 102;
KIN 199
LIT 102, 102H, 112A, 112AH, 112B, 112BH, 114, 114H, 117, 117H, 130, 130H,140, 140H, 141, 141H, 142, 142H, 144A, 144AH, 144B, 144BH, 145, 145H, 146A, 146AH, 146B, 146BH, 147, 147H, 148, 148H, 149, 149H;
MSCM 128;
PHIL 101, 101H, 102, 120, 122, 124, 126, 128, 128H, 135, 140;
POLS 128, 128H, 150;
SPAN 101, 101S, 102, 102S, 201, 201H, 202;
SPCH 130, 132

ElectiveEL3.0

Select any course that is numbered 40 or above. Please see a counselor to discuss course options.

Total Semester Units:15.5† 
Total Units for Music: Composition, Performance, and Improvisation for Contemporary Music Practices AA program 61.5† 
Notes:
AP exams and courses taken outside of Rio Hondo College may fulfill general education and/or major requirements. Please check with a counselor.
Legend:
Some classes may have higher units
M Major course; course may also meet a general education requirement
GEGeneral Education course
ELElective Course
CourseUnitsTypically Offered
1st Semester
MUST 101 - Introduction to Music TechnologyM3.0
MUST 101 - Introduction to Music Technology (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to read college-level texts.
Transfers to:CSU

This course is designed for the student who wants to learn the terminology, equipment, techniques, and concepts of music technology. Focus will be on principles and practices of sound, digital audio, synthesis, Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI), MIDI sequencing, notation software, and audio recording utilizing hardware and software platforms. Lab activities will place an emphasis on the operation and components of the typical MIDI and digital audio lab (hardware and software). Students will complete independent projects demonstrating hands-on knowledge.

MUS 103 - Music Theory IM3.0
MUS 103 - Music Theory I (3.0 units)

Corequisite:MUS 106
Advisory:It is advised that students be able to read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

Through guided composition and analysis, this course incorporates the following concepts: rhythm and meter; basic properties of sound; intervals; diatonic scales and triads; diatonic chords, basic cadential formulas and phrase structure; dominant seventh; figured bass symbols; and non-harmonic tones. Development of skills in handwritten notation is expected.

MUS 106 - Musicianship IM1.0
MUS 106 - Musicianship I (1.0 units)

Corequisite: MUS 103
Advisory:It is advised that students be able to read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is designed for students who want to develop beginning aural recognition, sight-singing, and dictation skills. It is recommended for all instrumentalists, singers, and composers, and required for all music majors.

Select one: MUS 116 / MUS 120 / MUS 216 / MUS 234 M1.0†
Notes:
Choose a performance group from the following list and it must be taken four times in four different semesters.

MUS 116 - Diverse Instruments Ensemble (1.0 units)

Advisory:MUS 101
Prerequisite:Successful audition with instructor approval required prior to enrollment to demonstrate proficiency of entry skills.

Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is designed for electric instrumental students, acoustic instrumental students, and vocal students who are at a beginning or intermediate level. Students perform together in one ensemble. The content is arranged for the instrumental and vocal makeup of the class and includes a diversity of styles such as popular, jazz, and contemporary classical music. Improvisation is introduced at a beginning and intermediate level appropriate to the style.

MUS 120 - Concert Choir (1.0 units)

Prerequiste:Successful audition with instructor approval required prior to enrollment to demonstrate proficiency of entry skills.
Advisory:This course is designed for students who seek the skills needed to study, rehearse, and perform literature within a large vocal ensemble. Participation in public performance is required. The repertoire includes a diversity of selections including classical choral literature, world music, popular and contemporary music. Previous choral experience is not required. This course may be taken for credit up to four times for a total of 4 units.

MUS 216 - Industrial Orchestra (2.0 units)

Prerequisite:Successful audition with instructor approval required prior to enrollment to demonstrate proficiency of entry skills.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is designed for advanced electric instrumental students, acoustic instrumental students, and vocal students to broaden their abilities to perform and improvise in an ensemble as well as record in the studio. The ensemble content is arranged for the instrumental and vocal makeup of the class, and includes a range of styles that include contemporary classical, popular, film and video game music, and electroacoustic music. Río Hondo College composition students may also arrange and compose for this performance group. This course may be taken for credit up to four times for a total of 8 units.

MUS 234 - Advanced Chamber Singers (2.0 units)

Prerequisite:Successful audition with instructor approval required prior to enrollment to demonstrate proficiency of entry skills.
Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is designed for students with advanced skills in rehearsing and performing choral music. A wide variety of music selected from different musical periods and styles will be selected for study and performance. This course may be taken up to four (4) times for a total of eight (8) units.

MUS 181 - Applied MusicM0.5
MUS 181 - Applied Music (0.5 units)

Prerequisite:Enrollment requires an audition
Corequisite:MUS 116 or MUS 120 or MUS 216 or MUS 234
Advisory: It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is for students interested in receiving individual instruction in voice, piano, guitar, band, or orchestral instruments with an assigned instructor. Emphasis is placed on study at the beginning level of technique and repertoire. Each week, the course includes one recital class and one individual lesson. Performance for a faculty jury is required at the end of the semester. This course may be taken for credit up to 4 times for a total of 2 units.

ENGL 101 - College Composition and Research (CSU GE A2)GE3.5
ENGL 101 - College Composition and Research (3.5 units)

Prerequisite:Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or eligibility for college composition.
Transfers to:UC, CSU

This composition course enables students to generate logical, coherent essays that incorporate sources necessary for academic and professional success. Students become proficient in researching, evaluating, and incorporating sources, and in learning critical reading and thinking skills through expository and persuasive reading selections before applying these skills to creating original documented essays. The writing workshop component of the course is designed to assist students with improving and refining their writing and language skills: Students complete writing workshop activities that enhance their ability to compose logical, well-supported arguments that exhibit grammatical fluency and correct citation styles. Students meet with composition instructors through individual or small group conferences that address students’ specific writing concerns. This course is designed for students who wish to fulfill the General Education requirement for Written Communication.

Total Semester Units:12.0† 
2nd Semester
MUS 104 - Music Theory IIM3.0
MUS 104 - Music Theory II (3.0 units)

Prerequisite:MUS 103
Corequisite:MUS 107
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course incorporates the concepts from Music Theory I. In addition, through guided composition and analysis, the course includes an introduction to two-part counterpoint; voice leading involving four-part chorale writing; diatonic harmony; and an introduction to secondary/applied chords and modulation.

MUS 107 - Musicianship IIM1.0
MUS 107 - Musicianship II (1.0 units)

Prerequisite: MUS 106
Corequisite: MUS 104
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is designed for students who want to develop the rhythmic, melodic, and harmonic materials of MUS 104 (Music Theory II) through ear training, sight singing, analysis, and dictation. This course is required for all music majors.

MUS 145 - Piano IM1.0
MUS 145 - Piano I (1.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is part of the music core, and intended for music majors. Course material includes basic technique and notation, major and minor five finger patterns, major scales, sight reading, and basic chord progressions as they are encountered in beginning piano music.

Select one: MUS 116 / MUS 120 / MUS 216 / MUS 234 M1.0†
Notes:
Choose a performance group from the following list and it must be taken four times in four different semesters.

MUS 116 - Diverse Instruments Ensemble (1.0 units)

Advisory:MUS 101
Prerequisite:Successful audition with instructor approval required prior to enrollment to demonstrate proficiency of entry skills.

Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is designed for electric instrumental students, acoustic instrumental students, and vocal students who are at a beginning or intermediate level. Students perform together in one ensemble. The content is arranged for the instrumental and vocal makeup of the class and includes a diversity of styles such as popular, jazz, and contemporary classical music. Improvisation is introduced at a beginning and intermediate level appropriate to the style.

MUS 120 - Concert Choir (1.0 units)

Prerequiste:Successful audition with instructor approval required prior to enrollment to demonstrate proficiency of entry skills.
Advisory:This course is designed for students who seek the skills needed to study, rehearse, and perform literature within a large vocal ensemble. Participation in public performance is required. The repertoire includes a diversity of selections including classical choral literature, world music, popular and contemporary music. Previous choral experience is not required. This course may be taken for credit up to four times for a total of 4 units.

MUS 216 - Industrial Orchestra (2.0 units)

Prerequisite:Successful audition with instructor approval required prior to enrollment to demonstrate proficiency of entry skills.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is designed for advanced electric instrumental students, acoustic instrumental students, and vocal students to broaden their abilities to perform and improvise in an ensemble as well as record in the studio. The ensemble content is arranged for the instrumental and vocal makeup of the class, and includes a range of styles that include contemporary classical, popular, film and video game music, and electroacoustic music. Río Hondo College composition students may also arrange and compose for this performance group. This course may be taken for credit up to four times for a total of 8 units.

MUS 234 - Advanced Chamber Singers (2.0 units)

Prerequisite:Successful audition with instructor approval required prior to enrollment to demonstrate proficiency of entry skills.
Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is designed for students with advanced skills in rehearsing and performing choral music. A wide variety of music selected from different musical periods and styles will be selected for study and performance. This course may be taken up to four (4) times for a total of eight (8) units.

Select one: MUS 130 / MUS 131 M3.0
MUS 130 - Music History and Literature Before 1750 (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college level-texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is for students who seek an introduction to the major composers and musical movements from antiquity to the 1700s. The course focuses on learning, reasoning, and writing about the music of these periods with the goal of understanding their social, political, and cultural contexts. In addition, these periods will be compared to contemporary culture and its social, political, and cultural framework.

MUS 131 - Music History and Literature After 1750 (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college level-texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is for students who seek an introduction to the major composers and musical movements from 1750 to the present. The course focuses on learning, reasoning, and writing about the music of these periods with the goal of understanding their social, political, and cultural contexts. In addition, these periods will be compared to contemporary culture and its social, political, and cultural framework.

MUS 181 - Applied MusicM0.5
MUS 181 - Applied Music (0.5 units)

Prerequisite:Enrollment requires an audition
Corequisite:MUS 116 or MUS 120 or MUS 216 or MUS 234
Advisory: It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is for students interested in receiving individual instruction in voice, piano, guitar, band, or orchestral instruments with an assigned instructor. Emphasis is placed on study at the beginning level of technique and repertoire. Each week, the course includes one recital class and one individual lesson. Performance for a faculty jury is required at the end of the semester. This course may be taken for credit up to 4 times for a total of 2 units.

Select one: MATH 150 / FIN 101 (CSU GE B4)GE3.0
Notes:
While the above course(s) are recommended, students may take any of the following courses to fulfill this requirement:  FIN 101, MATH 130/H, MATH 140, MATH 150, MATH 160, MATH 170, MATH 175, MATH 180, MATH 190/H, PSY 190.

MATH 150 - Survey of Mathematics (3.0 units)

Prerequisite:Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or completion of an intermediate algebra course.
Transfers to: CSU, UC

In this course students will learn to read and understand quantitative information, solve practical problems, and make sound decisions using numbers. Topics include consumer applications, logic, probability, statistics, algebra, and geometry. This course is for students who need a quantitative reasoning course for graduation or transfer.

FIN 101 - Introduction to Financial Planning (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to read college-level texts.
Prerequisite:Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or completion of an elementary algebra course.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course provides an overview of the fundamentals of financial planning, and is designed to provide students with tools needed to achieve their personal financial goals. Students learn to make informed decisions related to spending, saving, borrowing, and investing by applying quantitative reasoning concepts. Course topics include the financial planning process, budgeting, cash flow, debt consolidation, investing, and retirement planning.

Total Semester Units:12.5† 
Summer 1
CSU GE B1 - Physical SciencesGE3.0†

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
† some classes may have higher units. 
All labs or courses with labs are indicated by an '*'.

Select one:
ASTR 110, 110H, 112*, 137*
CHEM 110*, 120*,130*, 140*, 230*, 231*
GEOG 101, 101L*
GEOL 150, 151*, 152, 152L*
PHY 120*, 150*, 160*, 211*, 212*, 213*
CHEM 110*, 120*,130*, 140*, 230*, 231*
GEOG 101, 101L*
GEOL 150,151*
PHY 120*, 150*, 160*, 211*, 212*, 213*

CSU GE B3 - Lab ScienceGE1.0

Select one if lab has not been completed in CSU B1 or B2.
All labs or courses with labs are indicated by an '*'

Total Semester Units:4.0† 
3rd Semester
MUS 105 - Music Theory IIIM3.0
MUS 105 - Music Theory III (3.0 units)

Prerequisite:MUS 104
Corequisite:MUS 156
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course incorporates the concepts learned in MUS 104 (Music Theory II). In addition, through writing and analysis, the course introduces students to chromatic harmony, secondary/applied chords, modulation, borrowed chords, and Neapolitan and augmented-sixth chords.

MUS 156 - Musicianship IIIM1.0
MUS 156 - Musicianship III (1.0 units)

Prerequisite:MUS 107
Corequisite: MUS 105
Transfers to:UC, CSU

This course is designed for the student who wants to develop the rhythmic, melodic, and harmonic materials of MUS 105 (Music Theory III) through ear training, sight singing analysis and dictation. This course is required of all music majors.

MUS 146 - Piano IIM1.0
MUS 146 - Piano II (1.0 units)

Prerequisite: MUS 145
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is part of the music core, and is intended for music majors. Course material includes piano technique, major scales and arpeggios, sight reading, chord progressions, harmonization, and transposition skills as encountered in upper-beginning/early intermediate piano music.

Select one: MUS 116 / MUS 120 / MUS 216 / MUS 234 M1.0†
Notes:
Choose a performance group from the following list and it must be taken four times in four different semesters.

MUS 116 - Diverse Instruments Ensemble (1.0 units)

Advisory:MUS 101
Prerequisite:Successful audition with instructor approval required prior to enrollment to demonstrate proficiency of entry skills.

Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is designed for electric instrumental students, acoustic instrumental students, and vocal students who are at a beginning or intermediate level. Students perform together in one ensemble. The content is arranged for the instrumental and vocal makeup of the class and includes a diversity of styles such as popular, jazz, and contemporary classical music. Improvisation is introduced at a beginning and intermediate level appropriate to the style.

MUS 120 - Concert Choir (1.0 units)

Prerequiste:Successful audition with instructor approval required prior to enrollment to demonstrate proficiency of entry skills.
Advisory:This course is designed for students who seek the skills needed to study, rehearse, and perform literature within a large vocal ensemble. Participation in public performance is required. The repertoire includes a diversity of selections including classical choral literature, world music, popular and contemporary music. Previous choral experience is not required. This course may be taken for credit up to four times for a total of 4 units.

MUS 216 - Industrial Orchestra (2.0 units)

Prerequisite:Successful audition with instructor approval required prior to enrollment to demonstrate proficiency of entry skills.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is designed for advanced electric instrumental students, acoustic instrumental students, and vocal students to broaden their abilities to perform and improvise in an ensemble as well as record in the studio. The ensemble content is arranged for the instrumental and vocal makeup of the class, and includes a range of styles that include contemporary classical, popular, film and video game music, and electroacoustic music. Río Hondo College composition students may also arrange and compose for this performance group. This course may be taken for credit up to four times for a total of 8 units.

MUS 234 - Advanced Chamber Singers (2.0 units)

Prerequisite:Successful audition with instructor approval required prior to enrollment to demonstrate proficiency of entry skills.
Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is designed for students with advanced skills in rehearsing and performing choral music. A wide variety of music selected from different musical periods and styles will be selected for study and performance. This course may be taken up to four (4) times for a total of eight (8) units.

MUS 181 - Applied MusicM0.5
MUS 181 - Applied Music (0.5 units)

Prerequisite:Enrollment requires an audition
Corequisite:MUS 116 or MUS 120 or MUS 216 or MUS 234
Advisory: It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is for students interested in receiving individual instruction in voice, piano, guitar, band, or orchestral instruments with an assigned instructor. Emphasis is placed on study at the beginning level of technique and repertoire. Each week, the course includes one recital class and one individual lesson. Performance for a faculty jury is required at the end of the semester. This course may be taken for credit up to 4 times for a total of 2 units.

US HISTORY (CSU GE D)GE3.0

Note: All honors courses have a prerequisite.

All CSU campuses have a graduation requirement in American Institutions. Students may choose one of the following US History courses to partially fulfill this requirement: HIST 143, 143H, 144, 144H, 156, 157, 158, 159, 159H, 170.

CSU GE A3 - Critical ThinkingGE3.0†

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
† some classes may have higher units. 

Select one:
ENGL 201, 201H; PHIL 110, 110H, 112, 112H, 115; READ 101; SPCH 140

Total Semester Units:12.5† 
4th Semester
MUS 181 - Applied MusicM0.5
MUS 181 - Applied Music (0.5 units)

Prerequisite:Enrollment requires an audition
Corequisite:MUS 116 or MUS 120 or MUS 216 or MUS 234
Advisory: It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is for students interested in receiving individual instruction in voice, piano, guitar, band, or orchestral instruments with an assigned instructor. Emphasis is placed on study at the beginning level of technique and repertoire. Each week, the course includes one recital class and one individual lesson. Performance for a faculty jury is required at the end of the semester. This course may be taken for credit up to 4 times for a total of 2 units.

MUS 157 - Musicianship IVM1.0
MUS 157 - Musicianship IV (1.0 units)

Prerequisite: MUS 156
Corequisite: MUS 206
Transfers to:UC, CSU

This course is designed for students who want to develop the rhythmic, melodic, and harmonic materials of MUS 105 (Music Theory III) through ear training, sight singing, analysis, and dictation. This course is required for all music majors.

MUS 206 - Music Theory IVM3.0
MUS 206 - Music Theory IV (3.0 units)

Prerequisite: MUS 105
Corequisite: MUS 157
Transfers to:UC, CSU

This course is designed for students who want an introduction to the materials and the major trends and movements of the 20th- and 21st centuries. Students gain techniques for motivic and harmonic analysis, improvisation, and listening strategies for addressing this repertoire, and will both compose and perform as a class following the models of masterworks of the last 100 years.

CSU GE B2 - Biological SciencesGE3.0†

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
† some classes may have higher units. 
All labs or courses with labs are indicated by an '*'.

Select one:
ANTH 101, 101H, 101L*
BIOL 101*, 105, 105L*, 111, 111L*, 112*, 120, 120L*, 200*, 201*, 206, 222*, 226*
BIOT 100*; PSY 210, 210H
BIOL 101*, 105, 105L*, 111, 111L*, 112*, 120, 120L*, 200*, 201*, 206, 222*, 226*
BIOT 100; PSY 210, 210H

CSU GE A1 - Oral CommunicationGE3.0

Note: All honors courses have a prerequisite.

Select one: SPCH 100, 101, 101H, 120, 140

CSU GE C1 - ArtsGE3.0†

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
† some classes may have higher units.

Select one:
ARCH 103
ART 101, 104, 105, 105H, 106, 106H, 107, 108, 109, 110, 112, 113, 115, 117, 120, 121, 130, 135, 140
DANC 179, 179H, 199, 199H
GDSN 110
MUS 101, 129, 130, 131, 132, 133, 135, 136
MUST 151, 152
PHTO 110, 130
THTR 101, 105, 105H, 110, 150

Select one: POLS 110 / POLS 110H (CSU GE D)GE3.0
POLS 110 - Government of the United States (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC (*credit limit), CSU
(*Students will receive credit for only one of the following courses: POLS 110 or POLS 110H)

This course surveys and analyzes the origins, principles, institutions, policies, and politics of U.S. National and California State Governments, including their constitutions. Emphasis is placed on the rights and responsibilities of citizens, and an understanding of the political processes and issues involved in the workings of government. This course fulfills the American Institutions requirement for the Associate Degree. It also is suitable for students wishing to expand their knowledge of local, state and national governments.

POLS 110H - Government of the United States Honors (3.0 units)

Prerequisite: ENGL 101
Advisory:It is advised that students be able to read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC (*credit limit), CSU
(*Students will receive credit for only one of the following courses: POLS 110 or POLS 110H)

This course surveys and analyzes the origins, principles, institutions, policies, and politics of U.S. National and California State Governments, including their constitutions. Emphasis is placed on the rights and responsibilities of citizens, and an understanding of the political processes and issues involved in the workings of government. This course fulfills the American Institutions requirement for the Associate Degree. It also is suitable for students wishing to expand their knowledge of local, state and national governments. This course is intended for students eligible for the Honors Program.

Total Semester Units:16.5† 
5th Semester
Select one: MUS 116 / MUS 120 / MUS 216 / MUS 234 M1.0†
Notes:
Choose a performance group from the following list and it must be taken four times in four different semesters.

MUS 116 - Diverse Instruments Ensemble (1.0 units)

Advisory:MUS 101
Prerequisite:Successful audition with instructor approval required prior to enrollment to demonstrate proficiency of entry skills.

Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is designed for electric instrumental students, acoustic instrumental students, and vocal students who are at a beginning or intermediate level. Students perform together in one ensemble. The content is arranged for the instrumental and vocal makeup of the class and includes a diversity of styles such as popular, jazz, and contemporary classical music. Improvisation is introduced at a beginning and intermediate level appropriate to the style.

MUS 120 - Concert Choir (1.0 units)

Prerequiste:Successful audition with instructor approval required prior to enrollment to demonstrate proficiency of entry skills.
Advisory:This course is designed for students who seek the skills needed to study, rehearse, and perform literature within a large vocal ensemble. Participation in public performance is required. The repertoire includes a diversity of selections including classical choral literature, world music, popular and contemporary music. Previous choral experience is not required. This course may be taken for credit up to four times for a total of 4 units.

MUS 216 - Industrial Orchestra (2.0 units)

Prerequisite:Successful audition with instructor approval required prior to enrollment to demonstrate proficiency of entry skills.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is designed for advanced electric instrumental students, acoustic instrumental students, and vocal students to broaden their abilities to perform and improvise in an ensemble as well as record in the studio. The ensemble content is arranged for the instrumental and vocal makeup of the class, and includes a range of styles that include contemporary classical, popular, film and video game music, and electroacoustic music. Río Hondo College composition students may also arrange and compose for this performance group. This course may be taken for credit up to four times for a total of 8 units.

MUS 234 - Advanced Chamber Singers (2.0 units)

Prerequisite:Successful audition with instructor approval required prior to enrollment to demonstrate proficiency of entry skills.
Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is designed for students with advanced skills in rehearsing and performing choral music. A wide variety of music selected from different musical periods and styles will be selected for study and performance. This course may be taken up to four (4) times for a total of eight (8) units.

CSU GE C1 or C2 - Arts or HumanitiesGE3.0†

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
† some classes may have higher units.

Arts
Select one:
ARCH 103
ART 101, 104, 105, 105H, 106, 106H, 107, 108, 109, 110, 112, 113, 115, 117, 120, 121, 130, 135, 140
DANC 179, 179H, 199, 199H
GDSN 110
MUS 101, 129, 130, 131, 132, 133, 135, 136
MUST 151, 152
PHTO 110, 130
THTR 101, 105, 105H, 110, 150

Humanities
Select one:
ANTH 104
ASL 101, 124, 201, 202
CHIN 101, 102
CHST 101, 146, 148, 148H, 150
EGSS 130
ENGL 126, 131
FR 101, 102, 201, 202
HIST 101, 102, 122,131, 143, 143H, 144, 144H, 156, 157, 158, 159, 159H, 167, 170
HUM 110, 111, 125, 125H, 130, 140, 145
JAPN 101, 102
LIT 102, 102H, 112A, 112AH, 112B, 112BH, 114,114H, 117,117H, 130, 130H, 140, 140H, 141, 141H, 142, 142H,144A, 144AH, 144B, 144BH, 145, 145H, 146A, 146AH, 146B, 146BH, 147, 147H, 148, 148H, 149, 149H
PHIL 101, 101H, 102, 120, 122, 124, 126, 128, 128H, 135, 140
POLS 128, 128H, 150
SPAN 101, 101S, 102, 102S, 201, 201H, 202
SPCH 130, 132

CSU GE C2 - HumanitiesGE3.0†

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
† some classes may have higher units.

Select one:  
ANTH 104
ASL 101, 124, 201, 202
CHIN 101, 102
CHST 101, 146, 148, 148H, 150
EGSS 130
ENGL 126, 131
FR 101, 102, 201, 202
HIST 101, 102, 122,131, 143, 143H, 144, 144H, 156, 157, 158, 159, 159H, 167, 170
HUM 110, 111, 125, 125H, 130, 140, 145
JAPN 101, 102
LIT 102, 102H, 112A, 112AH, 112B, 112BH, 114,114H, 117,117H, 130, 130H, 140, 140H, 141, 141H, 142, 142H, 144A, 144AH, 144B, 144BH, 145, 145H, 146A, 146AH, 146B, 146BH, 147, 147H, 148, 148H, 149, 149H
PHIL 101, 101H, 102, 120, 122, 124, 126, 128, 128H, 135, 140
POLS 128, 128H, 150
SPAN 101, 101S, 102, 102S, 201, 201H, 202
SPCH 130, 132

CSU GE F - Ethnic StudiesGE3.0

Notes:
Students who started at Rio Hondo College beginning in Fall 2021 or later and returning students who have not maintained continuous enrollment will be required to complete a course in Area F. Students who started at Rio Hondo College prior to Fall 2021 and have maintained continuous enrollment will not be required to complete a course in Area F (instead, they will complete 9 units from at least two disciplines in Area D). Please see a counselor for details.

Select one:
CHST 101
EGSS 110

CSU GE E - Lifelong Learning/Self DevelopmentGE3.0

Select one:
ANTH 110
HUSR 123
CD 106
EGSS 130
KIN 159 (F'21), 170 (F'21), 190 (F'21), 191, 192, 196
COUN 101 (F’11), 104, 151 (F’98)
NUTR 110
DD 214 (see counselor for details)
PHIL 122
PSY 112, 121
EDEV 101 (F’15), 151
SOC 105, 110

Total Semester Units:13.0† 
Total Units for Music: Composition, Performance, and Improvisation for Contemporary Music Practices AA program (Transfer to CSU)70.5† 
Notes:
AP exams and courses taken outside of Rio Hondo College may fulfill general education and/or major requirements. Please check with a counselor.
Legend:
Some classes may have higher units
M Major course; course may also meet a general education requirement
GEGeneral Education course
ELElective Course
CourseUnitsTypically Offered
1st Semester
MUST 101 - Introduction to Music TechnologyM3.0
MUST 101 - Introduction to Music Technology (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to read college-level texts.
Transfers to:CSU

This course is designed for the student who wants to learn the terminology, equipment, techniques, and concepts of music technology. Focus will be on principles and practices of sound, digital audio, synthesis, Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI), MIDI sequencing, notation software, and audio recording utilizing hardware and software platforms. Lab activities will place an emphasis on the operation and components of the typical MIDI and digital audio lab (hardware and software). Students will complete independent projects demonstrating hands-on knowledge.

MUS 103 - Music Theory IM3.0
MUS 103 - Music Theory I (3.0 units)

Corequisite:MUS 106
Advisory:It is advised that students be able to read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

Through guided composition and analysis, this course incorporates the following concepts: rhythm and meter; basic properties of sound; intervals; diatonic scales and triads; diatonic chords, basic cadential formulas and phrase structure; dominant seventh; figured bass symbols; and non-harmonic tones. Development of skills in handwritten notation is expected.

MUS 106 - Musicianship IM1.0
MUS 106 - Musicianship I (1.0 units)

Corequisite: MUS 103
Advisory:It is advised that students be able to read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is designed for students who want to develop beginning aural recognition, sight-singing, and dictation skills. It is recommended for all instrumentalists, singers, and composers, and required for all music majors.

Select one: MUS 116 / MUS 120 / MUS 216 / MUS 234 M1.0†
Notes:
Choose a performance group from the following list and it must be taken four times in four different semesters.

MUS 116 - Diverse Instruments Ensemble (1.0 units)

Advisory:MUS 101
Prerequisite:Successful audition with instructor approval required prior to enrollment to demonstrate proficiency of entry skills.

Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is designed for electric instrumental students, acoustic instrumental students, and vocal students who are at a beginning or intermediate level. Students perform together in one ensemble. The content is arranged for the instrumental and vocal makeup of the class and includes a diversity of styles such as popular, jazz, and contemporary classical music. Improvisation is introduced at a beginning and intermediate level appropriate to the style.

MUS 120 - Concert Choir (1.0 units)

Prerequiste:Successful audition with instructor approval required prior to enrollment to demonstrate proficiency of entry skills.
Advisory:This course is designed for students who seek the skills needed to study, rehearse, and perform literature within a large vocal ensemble. Participation in public performance is required. The repertoire includes a diversity of selections including classical choral literature, world music, popular and contemporary music. Previous choral experience is not required. This course may be taken for credit up to four times for a total of 4 units.

MUS 216 - Industrial Orchestra (2.0 units)

Prerequisite:Successful audition with instructor approval required prior to enrollment to demonstrate proficiency of entry skills.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is designed for advanced electric instrumental students, acoustic instrumental students, and vocal students to broaden their abilities to perform and improvise in an ensemble as well as record in the studio. The ensemble content is arranged for the instrumental and vocal makeup of the class, and includes a range of styles that include contemporary classical, popular, film and video game music, and electroacoustic music. Río Hondo College composition students may also arrange and compose for this performance group. This course may be taken for credit up to four times for a total of 8 units.

MUS 234 - Advanced Chamber Singers (2.0 units)

Prerequisite:Successful audition with instructor approval required prior to enrollment to demonstrate proficiency of entry skills.
Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is designed for students with advanced skills in rehearsing and performing choral music. A wide variety of music selected from different musical periods and styles will be selected for study and performance. This course may be taken up to four (4) times for a total of eight (8) units.

ENGL 101 - College Composition and Research (IGETC 1A)GE3.5
ENGL 101 - College Composition and Research (3.5 units)

Prerequisite:Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or eligibility for college composition.
Transfers to:UC, CSU

This composition course enables students to generate logical, coherent essays that incorporate sources necessary for academic and professional success. Students become proficient in researching, evaluating, and incorporating sources, and in learning critical reading and thinking skills through expository and persuasive reading selections before applying these skills to creating original documented essays. The writing workshop component of the course is designed to assist students with improving and refining their writing and language skills: Students complete writing workshop activities that enhance their ability to compose logical, well-supported arguments that exhibit grammatical fluency and correct citation styles. Students meet with composition instructors through individual or small group conferences that address students’ specific writing concerns. This course is designed for students who wish to fulfill the General Education requirement for Written Communication.

IGETC 4 - Social and Behavioral SciencesGE3.0

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
A total of 6 units required in Social and Behavioral Sciences from 2 different disciplines.

 Select one:
AJ 101
ANTH 102, 102H, 103, 110, 115, 125
CD 106, 208
CHST 101, 146, 148, 148H, 150
ECON 101, 101H, 102, 102H, 106, 135
EGSS 110, 120, 130
GEOG 102, 103
HIST 101, 102, 122, 131, 143, 143H, 144, 144H, 156, 157, 158,159, 159H, 167, 170
HUM 110, 111, 125, 125H, 130
MSCM 128
PHIL 128, 128H, 135
POLS 110, 110H, 115, 125, 128, 128H, 130,135, 140, 150
PSY 101, 101H, 112, 114, 200
SOC 101, 101H, 102, 105, 110, 114, 116, 120, 127, 130
SPCH 150

Total Semester Units:14.5† 
2nd Semester
MUS 104 - Music Theory IIM3.0
MUS 104 - Music Theory II (3.0 units)

Prerequisite:MUS 103
Corequisite:MUS 107
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course incorporates the concepts from Music Theory I. In addition, through guided composition and analysis, the course includes an introduction to two-part counterpoint; voice leading involving four-part chorale writing; diatonic harmony; and an introduction to secondary/applied chords and modulation.

MUS 107 - Musicianship IIM1.0
MUS 107 - Musicianship II (1.0 units)

Prerequisite: MUS 106
Corequisite: MUS 104
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is designed for students who want to develop the rhythmic, melodic, and harmonic materials of MUS 104 (Music Theory II) through ear training, sight singing, analysis, and dictation. This course is required for all music majors.

MUS 145 - Piano IM1.0
MUS 145 - Piano I (1.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is part of the music core, and intended for music majors. Course material includes basic technique and notation, major and minor five finger patterns, major scales, sight reading, and basic chord progressions as they are encountered in beginning piano music.

Select one: MUS 116 / MUS 120 / MUS 216 / MUS 234 M1.0†
Notes:
Choose a performance group from the following list and it must be taken four times in four different semesters.

MUS 116 - Diverse Instruments Ensemble (1.0 units)

Advisory:MUS 101
Prerequisite:Successful audition with instructor approval required prior to enrollment to demonstrate proficiency of entry skills.

Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is designed for electric instrumental students, acoustic instrumental students, and vocal students who are at a beginning or intermediate level. Students perform together in one ensemble. The content is arranged for the instrumental and vocal makeup of the class and includes a diversity of styles such as popular, jazz, and contemporary classical music. Improvisation is introduced at a beginning and intermediate level appropriate to the style.

MUS 120 - Concert Choir (1.0 units)

Prerequiste:Successful audition with instructor approval required prior to enrollment to demonstrate proficiency of entry skills.
Advisory:This course is designed for students who seek the skills needed to study, rehearse, and perform literature within a large vocal ensemble. Participation in public performance is required. The repertoire includes a diversity of selections including classical choral literature, world music, popular and contemporary music. Previous choral experience is not required. This course may be taken for credit up to four times for a total of 4 units.

MUS 216 - Industrial Orchestra (2.0 units)

Prerequisite:Successful audition with instructor approval required prior to enrollment to demonstrate proficiency of entry skills.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is designed for advanced electric instrumental students, acoustic instrumental students, and vocal students to broaden their abilities to perform and improvise in an ensemble as well as record in the studio. The ensemble content is arranged for the instrumental and vocal makeup of the class, and includes a range of styles that include contemporary classical, popular, film and video game music, and electroacoustic music. Río Hondo College composition students may also arrange and compose for this performance group. This course may be taken for credit up to four times for a total of 8 units.

MUS 234 - Advanced Chamber Singers (2.0 units)

Prerequisite:Successful audition with instructor approval required prior to enrollment to demonstrate proficiency of entry skills.
Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is designed for students with advanced skills in rehearsing and performing choral music. A wide variety of music selected from different musical periods and styles will be selected for study and performance. This course may be taken up to four (4) times for a total of eight (8) units.

MUS 181 - Applied MusicM0.5
MUS 181 - Applied Music (0.5 units)

Prerequisite:Enrollment requires an audition
Corequisite:MUS 116 or MUS 120 or MUS 216 or MUS 234
Advisory: It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is for students interested in receiving individual instruction in voice, piano, guitar, band, or orchestral instruments with an assigned instructor. Emphasis is placed on study at the beginning level of technique and repertoire. Each week, the course includes one recital class and one individual lesson. Performance for a faculty jury is required at the end of the semester. This course may be taken for credit up to 4 times for a total of 2 units.

MATH 150 - Survey of Mathematics (IGETC 2A)GE3.0
Notes:
While the above course(s) are recommended, students may take any of the following courses to fulfill this requirement:  MATH 130/H, MATH 150, MATH 160, MATH 170, MATH 180, MATH190/H, PSY 190.

MATH 150 - Survey of Mathematics (3.0 units)

Prerequisite:Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or completion of an intermediate algebra course.
Transfers to: CSU, UC

In this course students will learn to read and understand quantitative information, solve practical problems, and make sound decisions using numbers. Topics include consumer applications, logic, probability, statistics, algebra, and geometry. This course is for students who need a quantitative reasoning course for graduation or transfer.

IGETC 5A - Physical SciencesGE3.0†

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
† some classes may have higher units.
All labs or courses with labs are indicated by an '*'.

Select one:
ASTR 110, 110H, 112*, 137*
GEOG 101, 101L*
GEOL 150, 151*, 152, 152L*
CHEM 110*, 120*, 130*, 140*, 230*, 231*
PHY 120*, 150*, 160*, 211*, 212*, 213*

IGETC 5C - Lab ScienceGE1.0

Select one if lab has not been completed in IGETC 5A or 5B.
All labs or courses with labs are indicated by an '*':
ANTH 101L*;
ASTR 112*;
BIOL 101*, 105L*, 111L*, 120L*, 200*, 201*, 222*, 226*;
CHEM 110*, 120*, 130*, 140*, 230*, 231*;
GEOG 101L*;
GEOL 151*;
PHY 120*,150*, 160*, 211*, 212*, 213*

Total Semester Units:13.5† 
3rd Semester
MUS 105 - Music Theory IIIM3.0
MUS 105 - Music Theory III (3.0 units)

Prerequisite:MUS 104
Corequisite:MUS 156
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course incorporates the concepts learned in MUS 104 (Music Theory II). In addition, through writing and analysis, the course introduces students to chromatic harmony, secondary/applied chords, modulation, borrowed chords, and Neapolitan and augmented-sixth chords.

MUS 156 - Musicianship IIIM1.0
MUS 156 - Musicianship III (1.0 units)

Prerequisite:MUS 107
Corequisite: MUS 105
Transfers to:UC, CSU

This course is designed for the student who wants to develop the rhythmic, melodic, and harmonic materials of MUS 105 (Music Theory III) through ear training, sight singing analysis and dictation. This course is required of all music majors.

MUS 146 - Piano IIM1.0
MUS 146 - Piano II (1.0 units)

Prerequisite: MUS 145
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is part of the music core, and is intended for music majors. Course material includes piano technique, major scales and arpeggios, sight reading, chord progressions, harmonization, and transposition skills as encountered in upper-beginning/early intermediate piano music.

Select one: MUS 116 / MUS 120 / MUS 216 / MUS 234 M1.0†
Notes:
Choose a performance group from the following list and it must be taken four times in four different semesters.

MUS 116 - Diverse Instruments Ensemble (1.0 units)

Advisory:MUS 101
Prerequisite:Successful audition with instructor approval required prior to enrollment to demonstrate proficiency of entry skills.

Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is designed for electric instrumental students, acoustic instrumental students, and vocal students who are at a beginning or intermediate level. Students perform together in one ensemble. The content is arranged for the instrumental and vocal makeup of the class and includes a diversity of styles such as popular, jazz, and contemporary classical music. Improvisation is introduced at a beginning and intermediate level appropriate to the style.

MUS 120 - Concert Choir (1.0 units)

Prerequiste:Successful audition with instructor approval required prior to enrollment to demonstrate proficiency of entry skills.
Advisory:This course is designed for students who seek the skills needed to study, rehearse, and perform literature within a large vocal ensemble. Participation in public performance is required. The repertoire includes a diversity of selections including classical choral literature, world music, popular and contemporary music. Previous choral experience is not required. This course may be taken for credit up to four times for a total of 4 units.

MUS 216 - Industrial Orchestra (2.0 units)

Prerequisite:Successful audition with instructor approval required prior to enrollment to demonstrate proficiency of entry skills.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is designed for advanced electric instrumental students, acoustic instrumental students, and vocal students to broaden their abilities to perform and improvise in an ensemble as well as record in the studio. The ensemble content is arranged for the instrumental and vocal makeup of the class, and includes a range of styles that include contemporary classical, popular, film and video game music, and electroacoustic music. Río Hondo College composition students may also arrange and compose for this performance group. This course may be taken for credit up to four times for a total of 8 units.

MUS 234 - Advanced Chamber Singers (2.0 units)

Prerequisite:Successful audition with instructor approval required prior to enrollment to demonstrate proficiency of entry skills.
Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is designed for students with advanced skills in rehearsing and performing choral music. A wide variety of music selected from different musical periods and styles will be selected for study and performance. This course may be taken up to four (4) times for a total of eight (8) units.

MUS 181 - Applied MusicM0.5
MUS 181 - Applied Music (0.5 units)

Prerequisite:Enrollment requires an audition
Corequisite:MUS 116 or MUS 120 or MUS 216 or MUS 234
Advisory: It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is for students interested in receiving individual instruction in voice, piano, guitar, band, or orchestral instruments with an assigned instructor. Emphasis is placed on study at the beginning level of technique and repertoire. Each week, the course includes one recital class and one individual lesson. Performance for a faculty jury is required at the end of the semester. This course may be taken for credit up to 4 times for a total of 2 units.

IGETC 1B - Critical Thinking and CompositionGE3.0†

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
† some classes may have higher units.

Select one:
ENGL 201, 201H
PHIL 110, 110H

IGETC 3A or 3B - Arts or HumanitiesGE3.0†

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
† some classes may have higher units.

Arts
Select one:
ARCH 103
ARTS: ART 104, 105, 105H, 106, 106H, 107, 108, 109, 110, 112, 113, 115, 117
DANC 179, 179H, 199, 199H
GDSN 110
MUS 129, 130, 131, 132, 133, 135, 136
MUST 151, 152
THTR 101, 105, 105H

Humanities
Select one:
ANTH 104
ASL 124, 201
CHIN 102
CHST 101, 146, 148, 148H
ENGL126
FR 102, 201, 202
HIST 101, 102, 122, 131, 143, 143H, 144, 144H, 156, 157, 158, 159, 159H, 167, 170
HUM 110, 111, 125, 125H, 130, 140, 145
JAPN 102
LIT 102, 102H, 112A, 112AH, 112B, 112BH, 114, 114H, 117, 117H, 130, 130H, 140, 140H, 141, 141H, 142, 142H, 144A, 144AH, 144B, 144BH, 145, 145H, 146A,146AH, 146B, 146BH, 147, 147H, 148, 148H, 149, 149H
PHIL 101, 101H, 102, 120, 122, 124, 126, 128, 128H, 135, 140
POLS 128, 128H;
SPAN 102, 201, 201H, 202

Total Semester Units:12.5† 
4th Semester
Select one: MUS 130 / MUS 131 M3.0
MUS 130 - Music History and Literature Before 1750 (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college level-texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is for students who seek an introduction to the major composers and musical movements from antiquity to the 1700s. The course focuses on learning, reasoning, and writing about the music of these periods with the goal of understanding their social, political, and cultural contexts. In addition, these periods will be compared to contemporary culture and its social, political, and cultural framework.

MUS 131 - Music History and Literature After 1750 (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college level-texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is for students who seek an introduction to the major composers and musical movements from 1750 to the present. The course focuses on learning, reasoning, and writing about the music of these periods with the goal of understanding their social, political, and cultural contexts. In addition, these periods will be compared to contemporary culture and its social, political, and cultural framework.

MUS 181 - Applied MusicM0.5
MUS 181 - Applied Music (0.5 units)

Prerequisite:Enrollment requires an audition
Corequisite:MUS 116 or MUS 120 or MUS 216 or MUS 234
Advisory: It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is for students interested in receiving individual instruction in voice, piano, guitar, band, or orchestral instruments with an assigned instructor. Emphasis is placed on study at the beginning level of technique and repertoire. Each week, the course includes one recital class and one individual lesson. Performance for a faculty jury is required at the end of the semester. This course may be taken for credit up to 4 times for a total of 2 units.

MUS 206 - Music Theory IVM3.0
MUS 206 - Music Theory IV (3.0 units)

Prerequisite: MUS 105
Corequisite: MUS 157
Transfers to:UC, CSU

This course is designed for students who want an introduction to the materials and the major trends and movements of the 20th- and 21st centuries. Students gain techniques for motivic and harmonic analysis, improvisation, and listening strategies for addressing this repertoire, and will both compose and perform as a class following the models of masterworks of the last 100 years.

MUS 157 - Musicianship IVM1.0
MUS 157 - Musicianship IV (1.0 units)

Prerequisite: MUS 156
Corequisite: MUS 206
Transfers to:UC, CSU

This course is designed for students who want to develop the rhythmic, melodic, and harmonic materials of MUS 105 (Music Theory III) through ear training, sight singing, analysis, and dictation. This course is required for all music majors.

IGETC 5B - Biological SciencesGE3.0†

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
† some classes may have higher units.
All labs or courses with labs are indicated by an '*':

Select one:
ANTH 101, 101H, 101L*; BIOL 101*, 105, 105L*, 111, 111L*, 120, 120L*, 200*, 201*, 206, 222*, 226*;
PSY 210, 210H.

IGETC 1C - Oral Communication (CSU Only)GE3.0

Note: All honors courses have a prerequisite.

Select one:
SPCH 100, 101, 101H, 120, 140

Select one: POLS 110 / POLS 110H (IGETC 4)GE3.0
POLS 110 - Government of the United States (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC (*credit limit), CSU
(*Students will receive credit for only one of the following courses: POLS 110 or POLS 110H)

This course surveys and analyzes the origins, principles, institutions, policies, and politics of U.S. National and California State Governments, including their constitutions. Emphasis is placed on the rights and responsibilities of citizens, and an understanding of the political processes and issues involved in the workings of government. This course fulfills the American Institutions requirement for the Associate Degree. It also is suitable for students wishing to expand their knowledge of local, state and national governments.

POLS 110H - Government of the United States Honors (3.0 units)

Prerequisite: ENGL 101
Advisory:It is advised that students be able to read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC (*credit limit), CSU
(*Students will receive credit for only one of the following courses: POLS 110 or POLS 110H)

This course surveys and analyzes the origins, principles, institutions, policies, and politics of U.S. National and California State Governments, including their constitutions. Emphasis is placed on the rights and responsibilities of citizens, and an understanding of the political processes and issues involved in the workings of government. This course fulfills the American Institutions requirement for the Associate Degree. It also is suitable for students wishing to expand their knowledge of local, state and national governments. This course is intended for students eligible for the Honors Program.

IGETC 7 - Ethnic StudiesGE3.0

Notes:
Students who started at Rio Hondo College beginning in Fall 2023 or later will be required to complete a course in Area 7. Students who started at Rio Hondo College prior to Fall 2023 and have maintained continuous enrollment will not be required to complete a course in Area 7 (instead, they will complete 9 units from at least two disciplines in Area 4). Please see a counselor for details.

Select one:
CHST 101
EGSS 110

Total Semester Units:19.5† 
5th Semester
MUS 181 - Applied MusicM0.5
MUS 181 - Applied Music (0.5 units)

Prerequisite:Enrollment requires an audition
Corequisite:MUS 116 or MUS 120 or MUS 216 or MUS 234
Advisory: It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is for students interested in receiving individual instruction in voice, piano, guitar, band, or orchestral instruments with an assigned instructor. Emphasis is placed on study at the beginning level of technique and repertoire. Each week, the course includes one recital class and one individual lesson. Performance for a faculty jury is required at the end of the semester. This course may be taken for credit up to 4 times for a total of 2 units.

Select one: MUS 116 / MUS 120 / MUS 216 / MUS 234 M1.0†
Notes:
Choose a performance group from the following list and it must be taken four times in four different semesters.

MUS 116 - Diverse Instruments Ensemble (1.0 units)

Advisory:MUS 101
Prerequisite:Successful audition with instructor approval required prior to enrollment to demonstrate proficiency of entry skills.

Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is designed for electric instrumental students, acoustic instrumental students, and vocal students who are at a beginning or intermediate level. Students perform together in one ensemble. The content is arranged for the instrumental and vocal makeup of the class and includes a diversity of styles such as popular, jazz, and contemporary classical music. Improvisation is introduced at a beginning and intermediate level appropriate to the style.

MUS 120 - Concert Choir (1.0 units)

Prerequiste:Successful audition with instructor approval required prior to enrollment to demonstrate proficiency of entry skills.
Advisory:This course is designed for students who seek the skills needed to study, rehearse, and perform literature within a large vocal ensemble. Participation in public performance is required. The repertoire includes a diversity of selections including classical choral literature, world music, popular and contemporary music. Previous choral experience is not required. This course may be taken for credit up to four times for a total of 4 units.

MUS 216 - Industrial Orchestra (2.0 units)

Prerequisite:Successful audition with instructor approval required prior to enrollment to demonstrate proficiency of entry skills.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is designed for advanced electric instrumental students, acoustic instrumental students, and vocal students to broaden their abilities to perform and improvise in an ensemble as well as record in the studio. The ensemble content is arranged for the instrumental and vocal makeup of the class, and includes a range of styles that include contemporary classical, popular, film and video game music, and electroacoustic music. Río Hondo College composition students may also arrange and compose for this performance group. This course may be taken for credit up to four times for a total of 8 units.

MUS 234 - Advanced Chamber Singers (2.0 units)

Prerequisite:Successful audition with instructor approval required prior to enrollment to demonstrate proficiency of entry skills.
Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is designed for students with advanced skills in rehearsing and performing choral music. A wide variety of music selected from different musical periods and styles will be selected for study and performance. This course may be taken up to four (4) times for a total of eight (8) units.

IGETC 6 - Foreign Language (UC ONLY)GE4.5

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
Courses in this area that also appear in IGETC 3B Humanities may be counted toward both areas.

Proficiency equivalent to two years of high school study in the same language or select one:
ASL 101, 102, 201;
CHIN 101, 102;
FR 101, 102, 201, 202;
JAPN 101, 102;
SPAN 101, 101S, 102, 102S, 201, 201H, 202
There are additional ways to satisfy the Language Other than English Requirement. Please see a counselor for advisement.

IGETC 3B - HumanitiesGE3.0†

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
† some classes may have higher units.

Select one:
ANTH 104
ASL 124, 201
CHIN 102
CHST 101, 146, 148, 148H
ENGL126
FR 102, 201, 202
HIST 101, 102, 122, 131, 143, 143H, 144, 144H, 156, 157, 158, 159, 159H, 167, 170
HUM 110, 111, 125, 125H, 130, 140, 145
JAPN 102
LIT 102, 102H, 112A, 112AH, 112B, 112BH, 114, 114H, 117, 117H, 130, 130H, 140, 140H, 141, 141H, 142, 142H, 144A, 144AH, 144B, 144BH, 145, 145H, 146A,146AH, 146B, 146BH, 147, 147H, 148, 148H, 149, 149H
PHIL 101, 101H, 102, 120, 122, 124, 126, 128, 128H, 135, 140
POLS 128, 128H;
SPAN 102, 201, 201H, 202

US HISTORY (IGETC 4)GE3.0

Note: All honors courses have a prerequisite.

All CSU campuses have a graduation requirement in American Institutions. Students may choose one of the following US History courses to partially fulfill this requirement: HIST 143, 143H, 144, 144H, 156, 157, 158, 159, 159H, 170.

IGETC 3A - ArtsGE3.0†

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
† some classes may have higher units.

Select one:
ARCH 103
ARTS: ART 104, 105, 105H, 106, 106H, 107, 108, 109, 110, 112, 113, 115, 117
DANC 179, 179H, 199, 199H
GDSN 110
MUS 129, 130, 131, 132, 133, 135, 136
MUST 151, 152
THTR 101, 105, 105H

Total Semester Units:15.0† 
Total Units for Music: Composition, Performance, and Improvisation for Contemporary Music Practices AA program (Transfer to UC/CSU)75.0† 
Notes:
AP exams and courses taken outside of Rio Hondo College may fulfill general education and/or major requirements. Please check with a counselor.
Legend:
Some classes may have higher units
M Major course; course may also meet a general education requirement
GEGeneral Education course
ELElective Course
Advising Sheet:
Click or tap here to open the program's advising sheet.

Program Learning Outcomes

1

Students will demonstrate a second-year undergraduate level competency in piano performance and piano literature.


2

Students will demonstrate the ability to perform in a large ensemble, chamber group, or as a soloist through blending, playing in tune and adhering to articulations and dynamics while conducting or being conducted in many different styles and periods.


3

Students will demonstrate a second-year undergraduate level competency in music theory and musicianship through four-part chorale writing, analysis, audiation, and dictation of baroque through contemporary music styles.


4

Students will demonstrate an understanding of the cultural, socioeconomic, and political implications of music history from antiquity through contemporary music styles.


5

Students will demonstrate a basic understanding and practical knowledge of music technology.


About RHC

Rio Hondo College, serving the communities of El Monte, Pico Rivera, Santa Fe Springs, South El Monte, and Whittier for over 50 years.

Contact

Rio Hondo College
3600 Workman Mill Road
Whittier, CA 90601

Phone: (562) 692-0921
Comments? Questions?
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