General Studies: Music Degree
Start Your Music Career with an Associate Degree in Music from NECC
Why pursue a degree in General Studies: Music?
Are you passionate about music, whether creating, playing, performing, or teaching it to others? If so, NECC’s General Studies: Music Associate in Arts Degree program can help you transform your passion into the profession of your dreams.
Setting the Tempo for Gratifying Music Careers
At NECC, our Music Associate Degree offers a mix of general education and music courses, setting the tempo as you prepare for a gratifying career in the dynamic music industry. Our program combines classroom instruction on music theory, music composition, and music history with hands-on workshops and other learning opportunities, equipping students with the skills and knowledge necessary to seek employment in a music-related profession.
What you’ll get from our Music program
Learn the Ins and Outs of the Music Industry
At NECC, our General Studies Associate Degree with a Music concentration will equip you with the skills and knowledge necessary to seek immediate employment or further your education at a four-year school, proving that following your career dreams can lead.
Do Cool Stuff, Not Just Homework
Forget about endless lectures. We’re talking about interactive classes and workshops where you practice what you’ve learned in real-life scenarios, as well as projects that connect you with fellow music lovers in the community.
Gear Up for a Great Career in the Music Industry
At NECC, we’re here to help you build a skill set that’s in demand. Whether you see yourself as the next great performing musician, music therapist, music producer, or other music professional, we’ve got you covered. While guiding you every step of the way, our experienced instructors will show you how to:
Read and write music effectively, including creating original scores- Experience music from all cultures, eras, and styles
- Perform with NECC’s music ensembles or participate in choral and music clubs, theatrical productions, and concerts
- Seek employment in a broad array of fields that require musical talent and knowledge, including education, business, therapy, and technology
Your Schedule, Your Rules
Juggling life, work, and study? No sweat. With a mix of online and on-campus options, NECC makes it easy for you to fit study into your life, not the other way around.
Once you’ve completed our Music program, you’ll have the option of applying those credits towards a bachelor’s degree in an arts-related field at a four-year institution.
Quote:
I always talk up the music program here. My favorite thing about the program is that you can take so many music related courses. There is a course for whatever interests you and it is just so affordable here.”
Lindsey Michaud, General Studies: Music Option
Where this journey can take you
Like a blank page, you can use your general studies foundation to build upon, empowering you to pursue a career in music or a related field.
Imagine yourself serving in one of these music roles:
- Entertaining live audiences as a Performing Musician
- Cultivating the next generation of musicians as a Music Teacher
- Touching the lives of others as a Music Therapist
- Assisting performers and producers as a Recording Studio Technician
- Enhancing sound quality as an Audio Engineer
- Optimizing recording project outcomes as a Music Producer
- Orchestrating musical groups as a Music Director
Why choose NECC for your Music degree?
We Get It
At NECC, inspiring our students to succeed is our top priority. Modern, relevant, and engaging, our General Studies: Associate of Arts in Music Degree program courses are designed with you in mind.
NECC’s dedicated faculty and staff help students develop the skills they need to advance in the workforce or transfer to a four-year college or university. Our small class sizes ensure personalized attention and support, empowering students to thrive academically. We also offer a variety of student support services, including tutoring, counseling, and academic advising.
With over 60 credit programs, two convenient campuses, robust student support services, and a vibrant student life, NECC is committed to providing an affordable, accessible, and high-quality education for all.
Learn from the Pros
Our instructors aren’t just teachers. They’re experienced professionals who live and breathe music.
Experience Beyond the Classroom
At NECC, it’s not just about earning a degree. It’s about building a network, finding your tribe, and acquiring the tools necessary to chase your dreams. Our Haverhill and Lawrence campuses are home to a diverse range of clubs and organizations and activities that help students connect with peers who share similar interests.
Whether you choose to gain leadership experience, stay healthy and fit, join a club, or participate in varsity sports, and student activities, we’ll guarantee you’ll have fond memories of your time at NECC.
We Got Your Back
From the day you start until the day you land your first big gig, our team is here to support, guide, and cheer you on. At NECC, our goal is to empower our students by equipping them with the skills and tools necessary to thrive, wherever they choose to work.
Career Services
NECC Connect
What Can I Do With This Major?
Got Prior Learning or Work Experience?
With NECC’s Credit for Prior Learning, you can move through the program at a faster pace, and graduate sooner! The best part is these credits are covered free-of-charge for eligible Massachusetts learners.
Support for Every Student
NECC offers a variety of student support services, including tutoring, counseling, and academic advising, to help students thrive academically. Want to transfer to NECC? Our advisors are happy to assist you.
Career Outlook for Music Professionals North of Boston
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the job outlook over the next eight or nine years for music industry careers varies by occupation. For example, employment opportunities for Music Directors and Composers are projected to increase 3% during that period, on par with all occupations.
At NECC, our General Studies: Music program graduates have an exceptional rate of employment while working in a wide variety of professional roles and settings. Some have gone on to start their own successful music businesses!
How Much Can I Expect to Make with a Music Degree?
The earning potential for music degree holders varies based on several factors, including education, role, geographic location, experience, and setting. For example, according to Salary.com, the average annual salary for an Audio Engineer in the United States was $118,255 as of October 2024.
With a degree in General Studies: Music from NECC, you’ll be qualified to seek immediate employment or further your education as you prepare for these roles:
Performing Musician
Performs music for live audiences and recordings. The median annual wage in Massachusetts for this role was $53,084 as of October 2024. The wage range typically falls between $44,543 and $61,587.¹
Music Teacher
Teaches students how to sing and play instruments, instructs them in fundamentals such as scales and chords, and imparts knowledge about music history and theory. The median annual wage in Massachusetts for this role was $59,990 as of October 2024. The wage range typically falls between $45,990 and $91,601.¹
Music Therapist
Uses music to help people improve their well-being, manage pain, and express emotions. The median annual wage in Massachusetts for this role was $69,948 as of October 2024. The wage range typically falls between $62,664 and $77,737.¹
Recording Studio Technician
Assists performers and producers by maintaining the microphones, computers, tapes, and other equipment in a recording studio. The median annual wage in Massachusetts for this role was $53,084 as of October 2024. The wage range typically falls between $44,543 and $61,587.¹
Audio Engineer
Manages the technical aspects of sound in a variety of settings. The median annual wage in the United States for this role was $118,255 as of October 2024. The wage range typically falls between $105,427 and $130,532. ¹
Music Producer
Oversees and directs recording projects for musical artists. The median annual wage in the United States for this role was $65,499 as of October 2024. The wage range typically falls between $57,481 and $75,495.¹
Music Director
Leads musical groups, such as choirs, orchestras, or bands, and is responsible for the music in a production. The median annual wage in Massachusetts for this role was $115,170 as of October 2024. The wage range typically falls between $91,586 and $177,918.¹
How to Get Started Earning a Music Degree in the Merrimack Valley Region
Feeling pumped? We thought so! Learn more about how to apply for the General Studies: Music Degree program. Still unsure that it’s the right fit for you? Contact us to chat more about why this could be the best decision you’ll ever make!
FAQs
Sources and Citations: ¹Salary information provided on this page is sourced from Salary.com. The data reflects estimates based on employer surveys and job listings. Actual salaries may vary based on location, experience, and other factors.
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Got Questions?
We're here to help. Contact us if you have questions.
Alisa Bucchiere
Program Coordinator & Music Director
Music Department
978-556-3779
