Overview

About the MA/M.Mus in Composition

The Composition program of Iceland University of the Arts puts emphasis on allowing the student to explore, enhance and develop her/his personal compositional approach.

In addition to the main subject the student can personalize the programme of study. Students can choose from different modules in musicology, music theory, electro-acoustics, instrumentation/orchestration, and interdisciplinary studies to support his/her area of interest. With the aim of developing the student’s professional skills, the student can also choose from modules in entrepreneurship and project management.

During the Composition programme at the Iceland Academy of the Arts, student’s compositions will be performed by professional performers and ensembles that specialize in contemporary music. Since 2015 Caput New Music Ensemble has been the ensemble in residence. The department also works with Ensemble Adapter, Siggi String Quartet, Hljómeyki and Spilmenn Ríkínís.

Through the International Exchange programme it is possible to study abroad for one or two semesters at the Academy’s partner institutions, consisting of approximately thirty universities and conservatories in Europe.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Composition

Aspects of Music Analysis

Instrumentation

Electronics & Sound Technology

Research on Icelandic Music

Music in Dialogue

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 24 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-08-19 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-04-08 00:00:00

Language

English

Credits

120 ECTS

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Reykjavik, Iceland

Disciplines

Music Composition

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

We are not aware of any English requirements for this programme.

Other requirements

General requirements

Applicants will have completed a BA degree in composition or related fields of art and musical theory

Those applicants that do not have a BA degree in composition can be admitted to the programme provided that they demonstrate a knowledge and technical ability of musical composition

Certified copy of degree certificate(s) and programme / course transcript(s)

Reference from one referee

Letter of Motivation

Curriculum Vitae

Portfolio of works

Students must be proficient in spoken and written English in the academic context

Student Insurance via Studyportals Partner

Make sure to cover your health, travel, and stay while studying abroad. Even global coverages can miss important items like Additional medical costs, Repatriation, Liability etc. Make sure your student insurance covers your needs.

Studyportals partnered with Aon to provide you with the best affordable student insurance, for a carefree experience away from home.

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Starting from €0.53/day, free cancellation any time.

Remember, countries and universities may have specific insurance requirements. To learn more about how student insurance work at Iceland University of the Arts and/or in Iceland, please visit Student Insurance Portal.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

Free
EU/EEA Applies to you

Applies to you

EU/EEA Nationals

Free

Additional Details

Students at the Iceland Academy of the Arts do not pay tuition fees, but the annual registration fee at the school is ISK 75,000

Living costs

Reykjavík

Iceland

178929 - 290400 ISK / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

In order for us to give you accurate scholarship information, we ask that you please confirm a few details and create an account with us.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Composition.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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