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Certificate of Achievement
Music Technology - Introductory Sound Design

This certificate of achievement is for students interested in learning the basics of sound design. This course of study introduces the physics of sound and how to manipulate, modulate, and record sound successfully in the service of various music and media industries (e.g., the music, television/film, and video game industries). Emphasis is placed on building technical skills and interpersonal skills required for various collaborative situations.

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

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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.
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.

MUST 105 - Introduction to the Music BusinessM3.0
MUST 105 - Introduction to the Music Business (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:CSU

This course is intended for students interested in the music business. It presents an overview of the business and legal aspects of the music industry in order to help students understand the rapid and massive changes caused by the digital music revolution. The course focuses on career possibilities, the development of business-related knowledge and skills necessary for effectively maintaining a professional music career, the vocabulary and terminology of the music industry, and the distinction between music and business at the corporate level. Topics include record contracts, publishing, licensing, marketing, distribution, performances, and copyright. In addition, the duties and responsibilities of musicians, songwriters, lawyers, agents, promoters, publishers, executives, managers, and anyone trying to navigate the rapid transformation of the industry are examined.

Total Semester Units:6.0 
2nd Semester
MUST 121 - Electronic Music IM3.0
MUST 121 - Electronic Music I (3.0 units)

Prerequisite: MUST 101
Transfers to:CSU

This course is designed for students who want to gain an understanding of the processes and tools available to the modern electronic musician. While using the most up-to-date software, students will learn to record, arrange, mix, and produce music. Topics include synthesis, sampling, and musical instrument digital interface (MIDI) sequencing. Compositions are expected of students utilizing electronic music techniques.

MUST 141 - Recording Studio IM3.0
MUST 141 - Recording Studio I (3.0 units)

Advisory:MUST 101
Transfers to:CSU

This course is designed for students who want to learn how to make high-quality recordings using a wide array of tools and techniques. Emphasis is placed on digital audio workstation (DAW) sound recording, editing, and mixing processes through hands-on experience. Students collaborate to produce recordings within several musical genres.

Total Semester Units:6.0 
3rd Semester
MUST 125 - Sound Design I: Music, Media, and Game AudioM3.0
MUST 125 - Sound Design I: Music, Media, and Game Audio (3.0 units)

Prerequisite: MUST 121
Advisory: MUST 141
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is for students interested in learning the basics of sound design. The course introduces the physics of sound and how to successfully manipulate, modulate, and record sound in the service of various music and media industries (e.g., the music, television/film, and video game industries). Assignments are project based.

Total Semester Units:3.0 
Total Units for Music Technology - Introductory Sound Design COA program 15.0 
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:
M Major course; course may also meet a general education requirement
Advising Sheet:
Click or tap here to open the program's advising sheet.

Program Learning Outcomes

1

Students will be able to demonstrate an understanding of how the music business functions and the role of professionals in the industry.


2

Students will be able to demonstrate a basic understanding and practical knowledge of music technology in the areas of music production and studio recording.


3

Students will be able to use basic approaches to digital signal processing (DSP) and synthesis to generate and sculpt sound.


4

Students will be able to work in an intermediate-level, collaborative sound designing environment to produce a successful deliverable.


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
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