Music AFA

A vibrant, affordable and accredited pathway to your future in music.
Full ensemble of students seated with music stands during a rehearsal, led by an instructor standing at the front in a music classroom.

Program Overview

Whether you're pursuing a career in music or simply want to explore your passion, Anoka-Ramsey Community College is home to Minnesota’s largest community college music program designed to be affordable and inspiring. Anoka-Ramsey is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM).
AFA
Associate of Fine Arts
Coon Rapids
68
Credits Course List
Why Anoka-Ramsey

A Music Degree for Your Future

  1. State-of-the-Art Music Facilities

    Practice and perform using piano keyboard labs, Mac computers with music software, and professional recording equipment. Anoka-Ramsey's Music Building on the Coon Rapids Campus offers two large rehearsal rooms and one small rehearsal room for ensembles, a recording studio, a dual piano/mac lab with music writing and editing software, and six practice rooms for individual practice. Each practice room is open to any Anoka-Ramsey student and is equipped with a Mac computer with music writing and editing software installed.
    Students practicing piano skills, production on digital keyboards in a music lab.
  2. Performance Opportunities

    Every student at Anoka-Ramsey can join performance choirs, bands, orchestras and ensembles that explore genres like rock, country, jazz and more.

    Current ensembles include: Concert Choir, Concert Band, Chamber Singers, Jazz Ensemble, String Orchestra, Rock and Pop Band, Chamber Ensembles, Introduction to Drumming in the World, Musical Theatre Ensemble.
    10
    Choral and instrumental performing ensembles
  3. Diverse Courses and Personalized Instruction

    Learn from award-winning faculty who specialize in their instrument and voice type, offering one-on-one mentorship and support. Study music theory, history, songwriting, music business, music therapy and music education.
    Students holding clarinets during a music rehearsal in a campus classroom.
  4. A Smart Investment in Your Future

    At Anoka‑Ramsey students save an average of about 65% per credit compared to regional public and private universities. With scholarships, resources and clear pathways forward, Anoka‑Ramsey helps you start strong, build confidence and invest in your future with purpose.

    Music-specific scholarships are also available through the foundation.
    Graphic showing a 65% cost savings per credit with a bar graph showing a general comparison between Anoka-Ramsey and other MN Colleges.
Outcomes

Where Music Meets Opportunity

The AFA degree in Music will prepare you for a career in musical performance, teaching and entrepreneurship. After completing the degree, you’ll have the experience to begin a career in music or transfer to a four-year college as a junior.
Student holding a trumpet in music classroom.
Completely aside from the benefit of a more affordable cost, the faculty here really know what they teach, and they can help you on a very individualized basis. The level at which the faculty care about each and every student on a personal level is truly amazing.

Meet the Faculty & Staff

Upcoming Music Events

Anoka-Ramsey Music performances are held on the Coon Rapids Campus Performing Arts Center (PAC) and are free and open to the public unless otherwise noted.

No upcoming events. Check back soon.

What Our Accreditation Means for You

For more than 50 years, the Music Department at Anoka-Ramsey Community College has trained aspiring musicians and provided opportunities for all students to participate in music. Anoka-Ramsey is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM). We are passionate about reducing barriers to music education and bringing out the best in all students, regardless of background and experience.

Related Programs

Liberal Arts & Sciences

AA Associate of Arts
Coon Rapids
Cambridge
Online
Z-Degree

Theatre Transfer Pathway

AFA Associate of Fine Arts
Coon Rapids
Transfer Pathway

Creative Writing

AFA Associate of Fine Arts
Coon Rapids
Cambridge
Online
student in scrub shirt with college logo sitting holding phone

Get in Touch