Overview

The Master of Music in Music Composition at Florida International University (FIU) is designed to assist students with the development of their own individual voices as composers while helping them to continue to develop their craft. This postgraduate programme provides a rigorous environment where creative exploration is balanced with technical mastery. Students are encouraged to experiment with diverse musical languages while refining their personal approach to contemporary composition.

Why Music Composition at Florida International University (FIU)?

Students benefit from the prestigious Herbert and Nicole Wertheim School of Music & Performing Arts, which offers a vibrant artistic community. The programme is distinguished by its integration of the New Music Miami ISCM Festival, providing a global platform for contemporary works. Composers have access to the NODUS Ensemble and the Green Library, alongside state-of-the-art recording studios and facilities at the Modesto A. Maidique Campus. The faculty includes internationally recognised figures, ensuring mentorship that connects students to the professional world of experimental and acoustic music.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 9507 per semester
National fee: USD 9507 per semester
Local fee: USD 4101 per semester

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum emphasises both traditional acoustic writing and modern digital applications. Students gain practical experience in the use of new technologies, including interactive and notational software. Modules may include:

Music Composition
Electronic Music
Film Scoring
Video and Interactive Media
Orchestration
Composition Forum
New Music Ensemble
Experimental Music and Arts
Documentary Film Scoring

Careers with Music Composition

Graduates are prepared for high-level professional roles within the global music industry or for further doctoral research. The programme equips students with the skills necessary for careers in media scoring, sound design, and contemporary concert music. Alumni from the university have a strong track record of success, frequently receiving prestigious accolades such as ASCAP and BMI Student Composition awards. Many graduates secure positions as professional composers, educators in higher education, or specialists in music technology and film production.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Graduate Music Composition

Composers Forum/Workshop

Electronic Music

Analytical Techniques

Experimental Music and Arts

Documentary Film Scoring

Film Scoring

Special Topics in Music History

Bibliography

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 24 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-08-24 00:00:00

Apply anytime.

More details

The application deadline is two weeks before each audition (except for the February date).

Language

English

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

60 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Miami, United States

Disciplines

Music Composition View 164 other Masters in Music Composition in United States

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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

Duolingo English Test

110

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TOEFL^® IBT

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IELTS

6.5

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AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

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98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Submit a portfolio of 3 or 4 of your works consisting of sound files and/or videos. Works can be for acoustic, electronic, mixed, and with/without videos.

Demonstrate your craft and depth of compositional knowledge exhibiting an awareness of contemporary aesthetics and techniques.

Include works for a variety of instruments/voices and sizes of ensembles (solo, chamber, etc.).

Make clear your interest in composition as a major and what the student expects to gain from their studies at FIU in this area.

Outline your interest and future goals as a composer.

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

19014 USD / year

≈ 19014 USD / year
Out-of-State

19014 USD / year

≈ 19014 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

8202 USD / year

≈ 8202 USD / year

Living costs

Miami

United States

1508 - 2603 USD / month

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

Financing

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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.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Music 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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About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Miami

Financing

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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