M.A. in Music Composition

Entry Requirements for postgraduate Programs

Application Fees : US$ 70

Academic Requirements:

• Bachelor's Degree: Applicants should hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution. The minimum academic requirement for postgraduate admission is typically a bachelor's degree with a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 60% or above.

English Language Proficiency Requirements: 

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 is required with no individual band score below 6.0

• TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based Test): The minimum overall score required is 71.  

• DET (Duolingo English Test): Kent State University accepts the DET, with a minimum score of 100.

• PTE (Pearson Test of English): A minimum overall score of 50 is required.

Kent State University offers a range of scholarships to international students to help them manage the cost of tuition and make their education more affordable. 

1. Global Scholarship: The Global Scholarship is a merit-based award for undergraduate international students. It ranges from $2,000 to $7,500 per year and is renewable based on academic performance. Applicants are automatically considered for this scholarship upon admission.

2. International Freshman Scholarship: This scholarship is designed for first-time, incoming international undergraduate students. It provides awards ranging from $4,000 to $10,000 per year. Students are automatically considered when they apply for admission.

3. International Transfer Student Scholarship: Transfer students from international institutions are eligible for this scholarship, which offers awards from $4,000 to $9,500 per year. The scholarship is based on academic merit, and applicants are considered upon admission.

4. Kent State University Honors College Scholarship: Exceptional international undergraduate students may apply for the Honors College Scholarship. It covers in-state tuition and offers additional funding for research and study abroad opportunities.

5. Graduate Assistantships: Kent State University offers graduate assistantships to international students pursuing master's or doctoral degrees. These assistantships provide a stipend, tuition waiver, and valuable professional experience.

6. Graduate Dean's Award for Excellence: This award is for outstanding international graduate students and covers partial tuition costs. Eligibility and application details vary by department and program.

7. Global Diversity Scholarship: Kent State recognizes the value of diversity on campus. This scholarship, awarded to incoming undergraduate international students, provides $4,000 per year for up to four years.

8. Other Scholarships: Kent State University also offers various department-specific scholarships and awards. These scholarships may have specific eligibility criteria and application processes, so students should check with their academic departments.

9. External Scholarships: International students can explore external scholarship opportunities, such as government scholarships, private foundation scholarships, and international organizations' funding programs.

It's important to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines may change from year to year.

The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Music Composition program at Kent State University provides aspiring composers with the skills, knowledge, and artistic development necessary for a successful career in the field of music composition.The M.A. in Music Composition program at Kent State University opens doors to a diverse array of career opportunities within the music industry.  

1. Composer: Graduates of the M.A. in Music Composition program are well-prepared for careers as composers. They can create original compositions for a wide range of musical genres, including classical, contemporary, film, television, and video game music. Composers may work on commissioned pieces, independently, or with performing ensembles.

2. Film and Media Composer: Many graduates find rewarding careers in composing music for films, television shows, documentaries, and video games. They collaborate with directors, producers, and sound editors to create soundtracks that enhance the visual storytelling experience.

3. Arranger: Arrangers adapt existing musical pieces or compositions for different instrumentation or styles. They are in demand in various music industries, including orchestras, bands, and recording studios.

4. Music Educator: Some graduates choose to teach music composition, theory, or related subjects at the secondary or post-secondary level. They can work in schools, colleges, and universities, helping to shape the next generation of musicians and composers.

5. Orchestrator: Orchestrators specialize in taking a composer's work and arranging it for different instrumentations, such as orchestras or chamber groups. They play a vital role in bringing compositions to life.

6. Music Producer: Graduates with a strong understanding of composition may pursue careers as music producers. They work with recording artists to shape the overall sound and arrangement of songs, helping to achieve the desired artistic vision.

7. Music Director/Conductor: Some composers become music directors or conductors, leading orchestras, choirs, or ensembles in live performances of their own compositions or classical repertoire.

8. Sound Designer: Sound designers create audio elements for various media, including films, video games, theater productions, and interactive experiences. Graduates can apply their composition skills to this field.

9. Music Critic/Reviewer: Those passionate about music and composition can work as music critics or reviewers for newspapers, magazines, websites, or blogs. They offer insights and evaluations of musical performances and compositions.

10. Freelance Composer: Many composers choose the freedom of freelance work. They take on diverse projects, such as composing jingles, music for advertisements, or custom compositions for special events.

11. Composer for Performing Arts: Some graduates work closely with theater companies, dance troupes, or opera companies, composing original scores for live performances.

12. Music Publishing: Graduates can enter the music publishing industry, where they help distribute and promote compositions to a broader audience.

13. Music Technology Specialist: As technology plays an increasing role in music composition and production, graduates with expertise in music technology can work as specialists, developing software or hardware for music creation.

14. Arts Administrator: Graduates interested in the administrative side of the arts can become arts administrators, managing arts organizations, festivals, or educational programs related to music composition.