Overview

The Composition programme at the University of California, Riverside provides students with a sophisticated platform to develop their unique creative voices. This academic pathway is designed for individuals seeking to master the complexities of musical structure and expression within a vibrant and diverse artistic community.

Students benefit from an environment that encourages exploration across various musical traditions and modern techniques. The curriculum is structured to foster both technical proficiency and aesthetic depth, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for the evolving demands of the global music industry and advanced scholarly research.

The University of California, Riverside is recognised for its commitment to the arts and humanities, providing a supportive atmosphere where creativity and academic enquiry intersect.

Why Composition at the University of California, Riverside?

The University of California, Riverside offers a distinctive environment for musical study, characterised by its diverse range of performance ensembles and research initiatives. Students have the opportunity to engage with various musical cultures, from traditional orchestral settings to unique global ensembles like the Javanese Gamelan.

The institution provides modern facilities and a wealth of resources through the UCR Library and specialised music centres. These assets support a rigorous academic experience, allowing students to explore the historical, cultural, and technical aspects of music while developing their own original compositions and creative projects.

Collaborative opportunities abound within the College of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences, enabling students to work across disciplines. This interdisciplinary approach enriches the educational experience, preparing composers to work in multifaceted professional environments and contribute meaningfully to the contemporary arts landscape.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 12005 per semester
National fee: USD 12005 per semester
Local fee: USD 4490 per semester

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

Syllabus

The curriculum is designed to provide a broad foundation in musical theory and practice. Modules may include:

Music
Musicology
Chamber Music
Choral Music
Jazz Ensemble
Orchestra
Wind Ensemble
Javanese Gamelan
Taiko Ensemble
Mariachi

Careers with Composition

Graduates of the programme are equipped for a variety of professional roles within the music industry and beyond. The skills developed during the course allow individuals to pursue careers as independent composers, arrangers, and orchestrators for film, television, and digital media platforms.

Many alumni find success in arts administration, music publishing, and cultural consultancy. The strong academic foundation also prepares students for further postgraduate study or roles in music education and research, contributing to the continued development of musical theory and practice on a global scale.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Music Bibliography

Proseminar in the Analysis of Western Music

Proseminar in Musicology

Electroacoustic and Computer Music Composition

Composition Seminar

Electroacoustic Music: History, Theory, and Aesthetics

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-09-25 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-06-01 00:00:00

Language

English

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Credits

48 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Riverside, United States

Disciplines

Music Musicology Music Composition View 1019 other Masters in Music in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

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Other requirements

General requirements

Students may apply for a terminal M.A. degree.

Students with a B.A. should follow the requirements for the M.A. for the first six quarters.

Though applicants must provide GRE General Test scores, scores for the music subject area are not required. All prospective students must submit an example of their writing.

Composers must also submit musical scores, recordings, or both and include a statement on technical experience. Composers must also submit recorded evidence of performance ability.

Composition students must have an undergraduate degree in music, including piano proficiency and musicianship (ear training). Digital composition students must have an M.A. in music or undergraduate degree in music.

Entering graduate students in digital composition must take an advisory examination.

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

24010 USD / year

≈ 24010 USD / year
Out-of-State

24010 USD / year

≈ 24010 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

13942 USD / year

≈ 13942 USD / year

Living costs

Riverside

United States

1100 - 1600 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

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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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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

Riverside

Financing

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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