Overview

The Master of Music in Composition at the University of Michigan provides an intensive environment for developing a unique creative voice. This advanced degree is designed for talented composers who wish to refine their technical skills and aesthetic vision within a globally recognised School of Music, Theatre & Dance.

Students benefit from a curriculum that balances individual mentorship with collaborative opportunities. The environment encourages exploration across various musical styles and media, ensuring that graduates are prepared for the complexities of the contemporary professional landscape. The university provides extensive resources to support the creation and performance of new works.

Why Composition at the University of Michigan?

The institution is renowned for its long-standing tradition of excellence in music education and its commitment to fostering innovation. Composers at this university have access to exceptional facilities, including state-of-the-art electronic music studios and diverse performance spaces. The faculty consists of Pulitzer Prize winners and internationally acclaimed artists who provide personalised guidance.

The programme is distinguished by its strong emphasis on performance opportunities. Students regularly collaborate with high-calibre ensembles and soloists, allowing them to hear their works brought to life by skilled performers. This practical experience is complemented by a rigorous academic framework that explores the historical and theoretical foundations of music.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 60634 per year
National fee: USD 60634 per year
Local fee: USD 30314 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum focuses on advanced creative practice and theoretical mastery. Modules may include:

Composition
Orchestration
Electronic Music
Music Theory
Musicology
Contemporary Music Seminar
Analysis of 20th Century Music
Collaborative Arts

Careers with Composition

Graduates of this programme are well-equipped for diverse roles within the global music industry. Many alumni secure positions as professional composers for film, television, and gaming, while others pursue careers in concert music and commissions. The degree also provides a strong foundation for those seeking to enter higher education as lecturers or researchers.

In addition to creative roles, former students often find success in arts administration, music publishing, and sound design. The comprehensive training ensures that graduates possess the versatility required to navigate various sectors of the performing arts. The university's strong reputation helps alumni connect with leading orchestras and cultural organisations worldwide.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Private composition instruction

Composition Seminar

Music Theory, Musicology, Electronic Music, and/or Music Technology

Non-Composition non-SMTD elective

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-31 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-01 00:00:00

Language

English

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

30 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Ann Arbor, United States

Disciplines

Music Music Composition View 163 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

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IELTS

6.5

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Other requirements

General requirements

Portfolio Requirements

Submit scores of your musical compositions with recordings of each work. All musical styles are welcome, though it should be noted that the departmental curriculum is geared toward composing for classical instruments and ensembles. All materials should be uploaded to your DecisionDesk profile and must be received no later than December 1

Interview Requirements

After the faculty review portfolios, a selected number of applicants will be invited for on-campus interviews. Though we strongly encourage all applicants to interview in-person, those applicants residing over 300 miles away from Ann Arbor are eligible to conduct their interviews via Skype

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

60634 USD / year

≈ 60634 USD / year
Out-of-State

60634 USD / year

≈ 60634 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

30314 USD / year

≈ 30314 USD / year

Living costs

Ann Arbor

United States

1025 - 1870 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 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

Ann Arbor

Financing

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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