Music, Composition
The Bachelor of Music in Composition at the University of North Carolina is a four year program designed for students passionate about creating, analyzing, and performing original musical works. The curriculum emphasizes composition techniques, music theory, arranging, orchestration, and creative expression, providing students with the skills to develop their own musical voice while understanding diverse musical traditions. Students study classical, contemporary, and digital composition methods while developing performance, analytical, and collaborative skills essential for careers in music production, performance, and education. This program prepares graduates to compose for ensembles, media, and solo projects, equipping them with both creative and professional expertise.
Throughout the program, students participate in individual composition projects, collaborative ensembles, and applied workshops that connect theoretical knowledge with practical creation. Coursework emphasizes score writing, sound design, music analysis, and performance integration, ensuring graduates can produce, present, and critique original works. By combining rigorous academic study with hands-on composition experience, the program cultivates professionals capable of contributing creatively to the music industry, performance settings, and academic research in music.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Music, Composition
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Music
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 01 February 2026
- Location: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, United States
- Field of Study: Music
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 - Foundations in Music Composition
• Introduction to Music Theory and Analysis
• Fundamentals of Composition
• Academic Writing and Research Methods
• Ear Training and Musicianship
Year 2 - Developing Technical and Creative Skills
• Advanced Composition Techniques
• Orchestration and Arranging
• Digital Music Production
• Collaborative Ensemble Work
Year 3 - Advanced Study and Applied Practice
• Contemporary Composition Styles
• Music Analysis and Criticism
• Applied Composition Project
• Internship or Collaborative Performance Project
Year 4 - Capstone and Professional Integration
• Senior Seminar in Music Composition
• Independent Composition Project or Thesis
• Portfolio Development and Public Performance
• Advanced Topics in Music Theory and Composition
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in music composition, production, performance, education, and media. Potential roles include composers, arrangers, music producers, film and media composers, sound designers, and music educators in orchestras, recording studios, theaters, schools, and digital media companies. The program also provides a strong foundation for graduate study in music composition, conducting, or music theory. Graduates gain creative, analytical, and technical skills, enabling them to produce original music, collaborate with performers, and adapt compositions for diverse professional and cultural contexts, building a versatile career in the music industry.
Why Choose This Program
This program is ideal for students seeking a curriculum that combines creative composition, technical music skills, and applied performance. Learners benefit from individualized mentorship, composition workshops, and collaborative projects that strengthen creative thinking, technical proficiency, and professional development. The program emphasizes originality, musical analysis, and practical application, preparing graduates for diverse careers in music production, composition, and education. By integrating theoretical knowledge with performance and production experience, students acquire the expertise, confidence, and professional readiness necessary to pursue impactful careers or advanced study in music composition.
Contact Information
Phone: +1 (919) 966-3621
Email: unchelp@admissions.unc.edu
Address: Jackson Hall, 174 Country Club Road, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA
