

The Music Theory and Composition Bachelor of Music program at the University of Miami offers a four year curriculum designed for students seeking advanced training in musical composition, analysis, and theory. The program emphasizes creative development, technical mastery, and critical understanding of musical structures, preparing learners to compose original works and analyze music across diverse genres. Students gain expertise in music theory, composition techniques, orchestration, and digital music production, equipping them to create and interpret music with both artistic expression and scholarly insight.
Throughout the program, students participate in composition workshops, ensemble collaborations, private instruction, and applied projects that strengthen creativity, technical proficiency, and professional skills. The curriculum emphasizes analytical thinking, aesthetic judgment, and practical application, enabling graduates to develop a distinct compositional voice and produce high quality music for performance, media, and research. By combining rigorous academic study with hands-on experience, the program prepares learners for careers as composers, arrangers, music educators, and creative professionals, while also providing a foundation for graduate studies in music composition and theory.
Year 1 - Foundations in Music Theory and Composition
• Music Theory I & II
• Ear Training and Sight Singing
• Introduction to Composition
• Music History and Literature
Year 2 - Intermediate Composition and Analysis
• Music Theory III & IV
• Orchestration and Arranging
• Ensemble Participation and Workshop
• Electives in Music Technology
Year 3 - Advanced Composition Studies
• Composition Seminar I
• Applied Music Technology
• Contemporary Music Analysis
• Electives in Specialized Composition Techniques
Year 4 - Capstone and Professional Portfolio
• Composition Seminar II
• Senior Composition Project
• Performance of Original Works
• Professional Development and Portfolio Preparation
Graduates of this program are prepared for professional roles in music composition, performance, and education. Career paths include positions as composers, arrangers, music educators, music producers, and media composers, where professionals create, analyze, and perform original works across diverse contexts. Alumni may also pursue graduate studies in music composition, theory, or related disciplines, contributing to scholarship, artistic innovation, and creative leadership. The program equips students with technical, creative, and analytical skills necessary to succeed in professional music environments.
Students seeking a program that combines advanced composition training, music theory mastery, applied performance experience, and career-focused preparation will find this degree highly valuable. Its four year structure allows learners to progress from foundational theory and composition to advanced projects and portfolio development. The program provides mentorship from experienced faculty, access to performance venues and composition labs, and opportunities for collaboration with peers, fostering both artistic growth and professional readiness. It is ideal for individuals aiming to pursue careers in composition, music production, or graduate studies in music theory and composition.
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 305 284 2000
Email: admissions@miami.edu
Address: University of Miami, 1320 S Dixie Hwy, Coral Gables, FL 33146, United States