COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Music in Composition is a 32–36 credit hour program designed to provide advanced training in the art and craft of musical composition while deepening students’ understanding of music theory, analysis, and history. The curriculum begins with 8 credits of Music Core Courses chosen from advanced studies such as Advanced Conducting (MUSIC 555 or 556) and Musical Styles & Analysis I and II (MUSIC 616–617), focusing on music before 1900. The Major Required Courses, totaling 21–23 credits, emphasize composition, performance, and analytical skills through courses like Musical Styles & Analysis III: Music Since 1900 (MUSIC 618), Music History Survey III: Music Since 1900 (MUSIC 624), Masters Chamber Recital (MUSIC 647), Seminar in Music (MUSIC 674, Schenkerian Analysis), and Masters Thesis/Project (MUSIC 699). Students also participate in two ensembles (MUSEN 6xx) and take Applied Composition (MUSAP 642). To further personalize their studies, students may complete 0–2 credits of additional graduate-level music courses or workshops and 3 credits of electives, which can include approved courses outside music such as theatre arts. This program blends creative development with scholarly study, preparing graduates for professional careers in composition, academia, and performance or for advanced doctoral work in composition and theory.