COURSE CURRICULUM

The Diploma in Music program at Douglas College spans four semesters, each totaling 15 credits, offering a balanced mix of academic, applied, and elective courses to build comprehensive music skills. In Semester I, students take foundational courses like Theory of Tonal Music I and History of Western Music I, alongside six credits of applied music options such as composition, improvisation, ear training, piano, various ensembles, and studio instruction. Semester II continues with Theory of Tonal Music II and History of Western Music II, plus an English transferable course, while students select applied courses including keyboard harmony, ensembles, and popular guitar basics. Semester III advances theory with Theory of Tonal Music III and History of Western Music III, supplemented by an elective and applied courses like composition, music technology, and diverse ensemble options. Semester IV concludes with Theory of Tonal Music IV or Contemporary Popular Theory, history electives, another transferable elective, and applied music courses such as class piano, composition, ear training, and various ensembles. Throughout the program, students have flexibility to tailor their applied music studies to their interests, including jazz, choir, percussion, guitar, and studio instruction, providing both depth and breadth in music education. This structure ensures students develop strong theoretical knowledge, practical performance skills, and academic breadth, preparing them for careers in music performance, education, or further academic study.