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Certificate of Achievement
Music Technology - Live Sound Engineer

This certificate of achievement prepares students for entry-level work through the study of live sound engineering. The certificate comprises courses that will prepare the student to become a live sound engineer through a course of study that includes the sound reinforcement system, the physics of sound, psychoacoustics, and audio measurements. The students will also learn the design types and uses of microphones, equalizers, mixers, signal processing and effects, loudspeakers and crossovers, and power amplifiers.

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 2023-2024 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 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.

MUST 145 - Live Sound Reinforcement IM3.0
MUST 145 - Live Sound Reinforcement I (3.0 units)

Advisory:MUST 101;
Transfers to:CSU

This course is designed for students who want an overview of live concert sound reinforcement. Topics include basic sound system theory and its application, as well as the operation of individual sound system components, including microphones, mixers, effects, power amplifiers, and speaker systems. This course offers opportunities for hands-on experience in troubleshooting, sound checking, and mixing sound for live performance applications.

Total Semester Units:6.0 
3rd Semester
MUST 146 - Live Sound Reinforcement IIM3.0
MUST 146 - Live Sound Reinforcement II (3.0 units)

Prerequisite: MUST 145
Transfers to:CSU

This course is designed for students seeking to further their knowledge in live concert sound reinforcement. Topics include professional communication with musicians, and intermediate sound system theory and its application. It also covers individual sound system component operation, including microphones, mixers, effects, power amplifiers, and speaker systems. This course offers opportunities for hands-on experiences in troubleshooting, sound checking, and mixing sound for live performance applications.

Total Semester Units:3.0 
Total Units for Music Technology - Live Sound Engineer 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 demonstrate how to set up, test, tune, and troubleshoot a live sound reinforcement system.


4

Students will be able to demonstrate specific tasks that include operating a front-of-house mix and stage monitors from a side-stage mixing board, and performing tasks that include audio feedback as well as communication with musicians.


5

Students will be able to collaborate effectively through group project-based learning.


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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