Composition
The Bachelor of Music in Composition prepares students to create, analyze, and perform original musical works across diverse genres and styles. The program emphasizes creative expertise and technical proficiency, guiding students to develop a strong foundation in music theory, orchestration, harmony, and composition techniques. Students learn to express artistic ideas through both traditional and contemporary media, while exploring the historical, cultural, and theoretical contexts of music. Coursework combines practical composition exercises, music analysis, and performance skills, ensuring graduates are capable of producing original works and contributing to the evolution of musical expression.
Over four years, students engage in courses covering music theory, counterpoint, orchestration, digital music production, and ensemble participation. Hands-on experiences, including composition workshops, performances, and collaborative projects, allow students to refine their craft and experiment with innovative musical forms. Students also explore contemporary music practices, technology in composition, and interdisciplinary projects, preparing them to meet the demands of professional music creation. By the final year, graduates demonstrate artistic competence, technical skill, and professional readiness, positioning them for careers in music composition, performance, teaching, or advanced studies in music theory and composition.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Composition
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Music
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 05 January 2026
- Location: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, United States
- Field of Study: Music Composition
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 - Foundations in Music Composition
• Introduction to Music Theory and Harmony
• Fundamentals of Orchestration and Instrumentation
• Academic Writing and Research Methods in Music
• Ensemble Participation and Musicianship
Year 2 - Core Composition Techniques
• Counterpoint and Advanced Harmony
• Composition for Small and Large Ensembles
• Digital Music Production and Recording Techniques
• Elective Modules in Music History or Theory
Year 3 - Applied Composition and Performance
• Workshop in Original Composition
• Collaborative Performance Projects
• Internship or Applied Projects in Music Production
• Elective Modules in Contemporary Music Practices
Year 4 - Capstone and Professional Integration
• Independent Composition Project
• Seminar in Contemporary Music and Composition
• Internship in Music Studios, Ensembles, or Educational Institutions
• Advanced Topics in Music Theory, Composition, and Performance
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in music composition, performance, music education, sound design, and production. Career paths include positions in orchestras, film and media studios, recording studios, educational institutions, and performance ensembles, where professionals create, arrange, and perform music across a variety of contexts. Graduates may also pursue roles in digital media, music technology, or continue with advanced studies in composition, music theory, or conducting. The program equips students with creative expertise, technical skills, and professional competence, enabling them to succeed in diverse musical and creative industries.
Why Choose This Program
This program is ideal for students passionate about music creation, performance, and theory, seeking to combine creative expression with technical proficiency. Learners develop composition skills, musical analysis abilities, performance expertise, and professional readiness, enabling them to produce original works and contribute meaningfully to the music industry. The four-year curriculum balances music theory, practical composition, collaborative projects, and professional internships, providing a comprehensive foundation in music composition. By integrating creative exploration with rigorous training, students gain the confidence and competence to pursue careers in composition, performance, sound design, education, or continue with advanced studies in music, positioning themselves as versatile and innovative music professionals.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the graduate admissions office at:
Phone: 217-333-0035
Email: grad@illinois.edu
Address: The Graduate College, 507 East Green Street, Suite 101, MC-434, Champaign, IL 61820, United States
