The Music Field of Study at Lee College is designed to prepare students to transfer to a four-year university and pursue a bachelor's degree in music or music education. This curriculum aligns with the State of Texas-approved Field of Study in Music and includes 31 lower-division semester credit hours fully transferable to public Texas universities. These courses are either applied as a complete block or evaluated on a course-by-course basis toward a bachelor's degree in music.
The Associate of Arts (AA) degree core requirements are modified to accommodate the Field of Study curriculum. However, students still receive a solid foundation in music theory, aural skills, ensemble performance, and applied instruction.
Program Requirements for Music Majors:
- Enroll in either Class Piano or Applied Piano until the exit proficiency requirements are met.
- Participate in a weekly music seminar or forum.
- Attend a specified number of approved concerts each semester.
Students are encouraged to take advantage of the many music-related opportunities at Lee College, including participation in the Lee College Choir, instrumental ensembles, and applied private lessons on any instrument or voice.
Many careers require education beyond the associate degree. Students should work with their advisor to tailor course selections to align with their chosen transfer university. The transfer plan on this page shows an example commonly chosen by Lee College students. Students may choose to continue their education at any university.
The Field of Study Curriculum for Music comprises a structured set of lower-division courses that are required for students pursuing a bachelor's degree in Music. Designed to streamline the transfer process to four-year institutions, this curriculum ensures that students receive a solid foundation in music while maximizing the portability of their academic credits.
Our Music Program offers a wide range of fully transferable courses for both music majors and non-majors, cultivating valuable skills that extend far beyond the practice room or concert hall:
Applied Music (MUAP: Piano, Voice, Instrumental)
- Students enrolled in applied music courses gain more than technical proficiency; they develop self-confidence, discipline, and the ability to focus deeply on a task. These qualities are essential not only for musical success but also for thriving in any professional environment.
Ensemble Participation
- Performing in an ensemble fosters collaboration, communication, and mutual respect. Students learn how to work toward shared goals, building trust and teamwork. These are skills that are highly valued in every career path.
Music Theory, Sight Singing, and Ear Training
- These core academic courses sharpen analytical and critical thinking skills. The ability to interpret, analyze, and respond thoughtfully to complex material equips students for success in diverse fields requiring problem-solving and mental agility.
Cognitive and Academic Benefits of Music Study
- Neuroscientific research consistently shows that studying music enhances cognitive function, including improved memory, verbal reasoning, and mathematical ability. Music education supports overall academic achievement and lifelong learning.