Course Sequence - Riverland

Music Emphasis Course Sequence

Semester 1 / Fall

  Course # Course Name Credits  
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MUSC1100
Fundamentals of Music

Fundamentals of Music introduces the foundations of music theory. Students will study elements of rhythm, melody, and harmony, as well as learn basic keyboard skills. This course is designed for students with little or no prior musical experience and serves as a preparatory class for other music courses, including MUSC 1101.

MnTC (Goals 6/HU and 2/CT); (3 Cr - 3 lect, 0 lab)

3
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MUSC1144
Practical Piano and Digital Music Skills

In this course, students will learn basic keyboard skills, receive an introduction to the fundamental building blocks of music, and then apply those to create music using a Digital Audio Workstation. This course is designed for the student who has little or no training in piano playing and music reading. It will also include instruction in the areas of composition and improvisation.

  • (2 Cr – 2 lect, 0 lab)

2
MUSC
Musical Communications Course
1
ENGL
ENGL1101 or ENGL1102
3
-
3
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CCLS1000
First Year Experience

This course introduces proven strategies and applications to help students achieve greater success in college and in life.  Topics include, but are not limited to, time management, goal setting, learning strategies, critical thinking, communication skills, diversity awareness, health and wellness, college and community resources, and financial planning.  This course introduces students to making choices that promote responsibility, motivation, interdependence, and self-awareness.  Recommended:  Score of 52 or above on test Accuplacer Reading Comprehension.
(1 Cr – 1 lect, 0 lab)

1

Semester 2 / Spring

  Course # Course Name Credits  
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MUSC1101
Theory and Musicianship Skills I (Goals 2 & 6)

This course is the first semester of music theory and aural skills designed for music students, elementary education students, or anyone desiring to develop and improve skills in reading, writing, and understanding music. Students engage in interactive musicianship development including aural, improvisation, and composition skills. Those with little or no music reading background are encouraged to take MUSC 1100 prior to enrolling in 1101.

MnTC (Goals 6/HU and 2/CT); (4 Cr – 3 lect, 1 lab)

4
MUSC
MUSC 1111, 1112 or 1114
3
MUSC
Music Communications Course
1
MnTC Goal 3 & Goal 10 course
4
-
3

Semester 3 / Fall

  Course # Course Name Credits  
MUSC
Music Communication Course
2
ENGL
One course in ENGL (1102, 1104, 1105, 1106, or 1107)
3
-
3
-
3
SPCH
SPCH 1100, 1200, or 1310
3
PHED, HLTH, or THTR 1111
1

Semester 4 / Spring

  Course # Course Name Credits  
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MUSC1120
Engaging People with Music

Students desiring to impact society through music are guided through the design and execution of their own unique music engagement plan. Possibilities include a field experience working with youth, elderly, special needs, or immigrant communities; designing performances; creating online or other distribution strategies for self-created music; and collaborating with others on unique projects.

  • (1 Cr – 0 lect, 1 lab)

1
MUSC
Elective: any MUSC course
1
MUSC
Musical communication course
1
-
3
-
3
-
3
MUSC
History & Society or Communications or credits from other disciplines
3

Any of the following will fulfill some of the 9 credits of MnTC Goal 6 requirements:  MUSC 1100, 1101, 1111, 1112, 1114, 1123/1124/2123/2124

Last Updated: May 28, 2025

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