Overview

The M.M. in Music Composition requires composition lessons and courses in music technology and theory. The thesis project for this degree consists of composing a major work. Teaching Assistantships are available but highly competitive.

Admission Requirements

All applicants to the Frost School must submit the following items:

·       An online application

·       Application fee

·       Resume

·       Three letters of recommendation

·       Official transcripts from every post-secondary school attended

This graduate degree program also requires submission of certain supplemental materials, including:

·       Portfolio

·       TOEFL/IELTS score, as applicable

For more detailed information, please visit our Graduate Admission website.

Curriculum Requirements

Major Area
Choose 4 credits from the following:4
Graduate Composition (may be repeated)
Graduate Composition and Technologies
Advanced Graduate Composition and Technologies
MTC 810Master's Thesis6
Other Studies in Music
MTC 711Experiential Musicianship and Theory Pedagogy3
MCY Electives6
Applied Lessons, Ensembles, and/or Conducting4
Electives
Approved MTC Electives3
Graduate Electives at the 700 Level3
Graduate Level Music Technology Course *3
Total Credit Hours32

* Graduate Level Music Technology Course as approved by advisor

Plan of Study 

Plan of Study Grid
Year One
FallCredit Hours
Choose from the following: 2
Graduate Composition
Graduate Composition and Technologies
Advanced Graduate Composition and Technologies
MTC 711 Experiential Musicianship and Theory Pedagogy 3
MCY Elective 3
Applied Lessons, Ensemble, or Conducting 1
 Credit Hours9
Spring
Choose from the following: 2
Graduate Composition
Graduate Composition and Technologies
Advanced Graduate Composition and Technologies
Graduate Level Music Technology Course * 3
MCY Elective 3
Applied Lessons, Ensemble, or Conducting 1
 Credit Hours9
Year Two
Fall
MTC 810 Master's Thesis 2
Applied Lessons, Ensembles, or Conducting 1
MTC Elective 3
Graduate Level Elective at the 700 Level 3
 Credit Hours9
Spring
MTC 810 Master's Thesis 4
Applied Lessons, Ensemble, or Conducting 1
 Credit Hours5
 Total Credit Hours32

* Graduate Level Music Technology Course as approved by advisor

This is a suggested Plan of Study.  Your actual course sequence may vary depending on your previous academic experience as well as current course offerings.  Students should meet with their academic advisor each semester to determine the appropriate course selection.

Mission

The mission of the Master of Music in Composition is:

  • To provide the highest quality and most educational and creative environment for work relating to the creation and understanding of music;
  • To foster advancement in composition; 
  • To provide students with advanced work in the filed of composition and thus enabling a career in professional or scholarly pursuit of music;
  • To substantially contribute to the Frost School of Music's role as a regional, national, and international nexus for the creation and understanding of music.

Goals

The objectives of the program are:

  • To provide training for students to develop advanced compositional skills;
  • To prepare students to meet the needs and challenges of the musician in the 21st century;
  • To provide students with the skills, knowledge, and experience to complete independent and original work in the field;
  • To give students an advanced knowledge of music as performers, composers, or listeners, enlarging and enhancing their musical interests and abilities.

Student Learning Outcomes

  • Students will be able to compose musical works of artistic merit.
  • Students will present a well-organized recital of their compositions.