Additional Qualifications (AQ)
The Royal Conservatory is a provider of Additional Qualification (AQ) courses for members of the Ontario College of Teachers (OCT), under Regulation 347/02. We meet the rigorous standards for governance outlined by the College and are guided by a distinguished Advisory Panel. These qualifications are added to individual OCT teaching certificates.
An AQ is earned by taking courses or programs listed in the Teachers' Qualifications Regulation. The qualification earned by successfully completing a course is listed on your Ontario teaching certificate. Visit the Ontario College of Teachers website for more information about AQs.
Teacher education at the Peterson School features hands-on, practical learning with established leaders in music education, all delivered in our stunning downtown setting, the TELUS Centre for Performance and Learning. Our AQ programs are rich in hands-on learning, providing you with new skills and opportunities to collaborate with others as passionate about teaching music as you are! Whether you’re at the beginning of your journey as a music educator wanting to build basic musical skills or an expert eager to dig deeper into theory and practice, we have programs to address your needs.
NOTE: These programs are also available as non-AQ certificate programs. Visit rcmusic.com/teacher-education for more information.
AQ Programs at The Royal Conservatory
Frequently Asked Questions about Additional Qualifications
- I am not a member of the Ontario College of Teachers. Can I register for an AQ course?
- I have some music qualifications already. Can I skip AQ Part 1 and go directly into an AQ Part 2 course?
- I have the music qualifications or experience to enter AQ Part 2 but I am taking AQ Part 1. Will I be bored?
- I took AQ Part 1 from another provider. Can I go directly into AQ Part 2?
- I took AQ Parts 1 and 2 from another provider. Can I go directly into AQ Part 3 (Specialist) at the RCM?
- Does it cost more to take the course with AQ?
- Do I need to provide proof of teaching experience to take an AQ?
- I can’t reach my Superintendent during the summer to sign my experience form. Can I still register for AQ Part 2 or Specialist?
- How and when does the Ontario College of Teachers register the AQ?
- I am a pre-service teacher (or planning to complete my teaching qualifications in the near future). Can I start, or even complete, my AQ part 1 before I am an OCT?