Associate of Fine Arts degree (A.F.A.)- Music
The Associate of Fine Arts (AFA) in Music prepares students for transfer to a variety of bachelor’s programs in music. Offering concentrations in Music Performance (classical/jazz), Popular Music and Music Production, all AFA Music students share a core of coursework including music theory, ear training, instrument or voice lessons, music technology and ensemble participation to prepare them for four year music programs.. The Classical/Jazz Performance option offers additional coursework to prepare students for careers as performers and/or music educators, while the Popular Music option prepares students to be performers and/or to work in the commercial music industry. The Music Production option provides additional coursework in recording, mixing, electronic music sequencing and synthesis, mastering and sound for visual media.
Associate of Applied Science degree (A.A.S.)- Music Business option
The Associate of Applied Science degree (A.A.S.) in Music with the music business option program offers courses in music history and theory, music business, recording and electronic music, and a strong applied music program offering private instruction and the opportunity to perform in ensembles. Bergen’s general music and performance programs give students the strong foundation in music history, theory, and musicianship to succeed at four-year institutions, to become accomplished performers, or to begin careers as music historians or musicologists. Our music business program prepares students either for a career in the business side of the music industry or to be business-savvy composers and performers. Coursework in this area prepares students to do business both in the “indie” world and in the major label world of the music business.
Associate of Applied Science degree (A.A.S.)- Recording Technology Program
The Recording Technology program is recommended for students who wish to pursue a variety of careers utilizing audio production skills. Unlike the AFA in Music Technology, this program does not require the musicianship or general education coursework recommended for transfer to a bachelor’s degree in music, but rather focuses specifically on audio production for the music and film/video industries with opportunities to explore radio and TV production through courses in the college’s Broadcasting program. All AAS Recording Technology students engage in industry internships as part of their coursework.