Overview

The M.M. in Music - Composition at the University of South Carolina provides a rigorous environment for students to refine their creative voice and technical proficiency. This programme integrates advanced training in original composition with essential studies in music theory and history to ensure a comprehensive academic foundation. Students engage deeply with digital technology and collaborative projects to produce sophisticated musical works.

Why Music - Composition at the University of South Carolina?

The School of Music has maintained prestigious accreditation from the National Association of Schools of Music since 1969, ensuring high educational standards. Students benefit from working with internationally renowned faculty and have frequent opportunities to hear their original works performed. The university also provides three specialised studios equipped with advanced digital equipment for modern music creation.

The community is further enhanced by Spark: Music Leadership at Carolina, which fosters personal exploration and professional skill development. This supportive environment encourages students to participate in ensembles and collaborate with visiting artists. These resources ensure that graduates are well-prepared for the complexities of the contemporary music industry.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 14880 per semester
National fee: USD 14880 per semester
Local fee: USD 6867 per semester

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

Syllabus

The curriculum requires the completion of a thesis consisting of an original chamber work of at least fifteen minutes and a successful oral examination. Modules may include:

Composition
Music Theory
Music History
Music Technology
Musical Analysis
Ensemble Performance
Compositional Techniques

Careers with Music - Composition

Graduates are equipped with the professional intelligence and creative skills necessary for diverse roles within the arts and education sectors. The programme prepares students for successful careers in various workplace settings, including film, television, and higher education. Alumni have secured positions with organisations such as The Lorenz Corporation and Conundrum Music Hall.

Common career paths for those completing this degree include:

Composer
Arranger
University Faculty
Music Writer

Many students also choose to continue their academic journey by pursuing advanced research or a Doctorate in Music Composition to further specialise in their craft.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Music Bibliography and Research
Composition study
Thesis composition
Music History
Music Theory
Music Technology

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 24 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-12 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-10-15 00:00:00 , National
- Apply before 2026-09-01 00:00:00 , International
Starting 2027-05-01 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-04-15 00:00:00 , National
- Apply before 2027-03-01 00:00:00 , International
Starting 2027-08-18 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-06-01 00:00:00 , National
- Apply before 2027-04-01 00:00:00 , International

Language

English

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

32 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Columbia, United States

Disciplines

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

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Academic requirements

GPA

GRE^®

Required

GMAT

Required

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

120

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TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

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

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Audition
Official Transcripts
Official Test Score (GRE or MAT)
TOEFL/IELTS Score (international students)
3 Letters of Recommendation
Curriculum Vitae or Resume
Writing Sample(s)

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

29760 USD / year

≈ 29760 USD / year
Out-of-State

29760 USD / year

≈ 29760 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

13734 USD / year

≈ 13734 USD / year

Living costs

Columbia

United States

999 - 1508 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.

On this page

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

Columbia

Financing

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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