M.M. in Composition

Chicago, Illinois

 

INTAKE: Jan, Mar & Sep

Program Overview

DePaul University, located in the vibrant city of Chicago, offers a Master of Music (M.M.) in Composition program designed to nurture the artistic talents and creative skills of aspiring composers. This program provides an inspiring and enriching environment where students can explore various musical genres, experiment with innovative composition techniques, and collaborate with world-class faculty and musicians. The M.M. in Composition program at DePaul University is dedicated to cultivating the creative talents of composers and preparing them for successful and diverse careers in the music industry. Graduates emerge with a strong foundation in composition, a robust portfolio, and a network of industry connections, making them well-prepared to make a significant impact as composers and artists in the world of music.DePaul University's M.M. in Composition program provides students with a versatile skill set that opens doors to numerous career prospects in the world of music. Graduates are well-equipped to make their mark in the music industry, whether they choose the path of a composer, educator, collaborator, or industry professional. The program's emphasis on creativity, technical proficiency, and professional development ensures that graduates can pursue their passions while forging successful careers.

Curriculum:

1. Creative Excellence: DePaul's M.M. in Composition program places a strong emphasis on fostering creative excellence. Students have the opportunity to create original compositions, spanning from classical to contemporary music, and develop their unique artistic voices.

2. Diverse Musical Genres: The program encourages students to explore diverse musical genres, including orchestral, chamber, choral, and electronic music. This diversity allows composers to develop a broad skill set and adapt to various musical contexts.

3. Faculty Expertise: Students benefit from the guidance of experienced and accomplished faculty members who are actively engaged in the world of composition. These mentors provide invaluable feedback, support, and professional insights to help students refine their compositions.

4. Collaboration and Performance: DePaul University's School of Music promotes collaboration between composers, performers, and conductors. This collaborative approach enables students to have their compositions performed by talented musicians, gaining real-world experience and exposure.

5. State-of-the-Art Facilities: DePaul's School of Music is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including performance venues and recording studios. Students have access to cutting-edge technology to produce and refine their compositions.

6. Elective Courses: The program offers a variety of elective courses, allowing students to tailor their education to their interests and career goals. These courses cover topics such as music theory, orchestration, electronic music, and musicology.

7. Professional Development: DePaul's M.M. in Composition program includes opportunities for professional development. Students learn how to promote their work, engage with the music industry, and navigate the business side of music composition.

8. Multiple Performance Opportunities: DePaul's location in Chicago provides access to numerous performance opportunities. Students can have their works performed in the city's vibrant music scene, further enhancing their exposure and networking possibilities.

9. Recording and Portfolio Development: Composers in the program have the chance to create professional-quality recordings of their compositions. These recordings can be used to build an impressive portfolio for future career endeavors.

10. Concert Series: DePaul University hosts a variety of concert series and festivals throughout the year. Composers have the chance to showcase their compositions in these events, reaching a broader audience.

11. Masterclasses and Workshops: Renowned composers and musicians frequently visit DePaul for masterclasses and workshops. These sessions provide students with insights and feedback from established professionals.

12. Research Opportunities: For those interested in academic research, DePaul offers opportunities to engage in scholarly activities and contribute to the field of music composition.

Pollster Education

Location

Chicago, Illinois

Pollster Education

Score

IELTS: 6.5

Pollster Education

Tuition Fee

USD 22800

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Application Fees : US$ 75

  1. Academic Qualifications: International students applying for postgraduate programs are required to have a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution. The minimum academic requirement is often a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, which is equivalent to 60% or above.

  2. English Language Proficiency: 

    • IELTS: An overall score of 6.5 or higher, with no individual band score below 6.
    • TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language - Internet-Based Test): A minimum overall score of 80 with no band less than 17.
    • PTE (Pearson Test of English): A score of 53 or higher.
    • DET (Duolingo English Test): A minimum score of 115.

DePaul University is dedicated to supporting the academic aspirations of international students. The university offers various scholarships and financial aid opportunities to help make education more accessible. 

  1. International Student Scholarships: DePaul University provides merit-based scholarships to international undergraduate and graduate students. These scholarships consider academic achievements, test scores, and other criteria.

  2. Global Gateway Scholarships: These scholarships are designed for undergraduate international students who transfer from specific partner institutions to DePaul. They help facilitate a smooth transition.

  3. Dean's Merit-Based Scholarships: DePaul's colleges and schools offer dean's merit-based scholarships to international students within their respective programs. These scholarships recognize outstanding academic achievements and contributions.

  4. Graduate Assistantships: Graduate assistantships may be available to international students pursuing master's or doctoral degrees. These assistantships offer a stipend and sometimes a tuition waiver in exchange for research or teaching assistance.

  5. International Experience Scholarship: This scholarship is for undergraduate students planning to participate in study abroad programs. It provides financial support to students seeking to gain global perspectives.

  6. Vincent G. Rinn Family Endowed Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to international students with financial need. It helps cover tuition costs and promote diversity within the DePaul community.

  7. Donor-Funded Scholarships: DePaul University administers a range of donor-funded scholarships, some of which are available to international students. These scholarships often have specific eligibility criteria and application requirements.

  8. Athletic Scholarships: DePaul offers athletic scholarships for international student-athletes who excel in various sports. These scholarships may cover tuition and related expenses.

  9. External Scholarships: DePaul encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities, both in their home countries and in the United States.

  10. Fellowship Programs: Some academic departments and schools offer fellowship programs that provide financial support to international graduate students pursuing specific areas of study.

It's important to note that scholarship availability, criteria, and application deadlines can vary among programs and departments at DePaul University.

The Master of Music (M.M.) in Composition program at DePaul University is a rigorous and dynamic course designed to cultivate the artistic talents and enhance the creative skills of aspiring composers. Graduates of this program are well-prepared for a diverse range of career prospects in the field of music composition. 

1. Composer: Graduates of the M.M. in Composition program have the opportunity to work as composers in various musical genres. They can compose music for orchestras, chamber ensembles, choirs, solo performers, or multimedia projects. Composers often collaborate with musicians, directors, and producers to create original works for different platforms.

2. Film and Media Scoring: The program equips students with the skills to create original music for films, television, video games, and other media productions. Graduates can pursue careers as film and media composers, adding emotional depth and artistic value to visual storytelling.

3. Video Game Music Composer: With the growing video game industry, there's an increasing demand for composers who can create immersive soundscapes for games. M.M. in Composition graduates can specialize in this niche field, composing music that enhances the gaming experience.

4. Music Educator: Some graduates choose to share their knowledge and passion for composition by becoming music educators. They can teach at primary and secondary schools, colleges, or conservatories, nurturing the next generation of composers and musicians.

5. Music Theory and Analysis: Students in the M.M. program develop a strong understanding of music theory and analysis. This knowledge can be applied in roles related to music theory instruction or academic research in music.

6. Composer in Residence: Some organizations, including orchestras, music festivals, and opera companies, offer composer-in-residence positions. These roles involve creating original compositions and working closely with the organization to showcase new works.

7. Music Arranger: Arranging music for various ensembles, from chamber groups to full orchestras, is another avenue for composition graduates. Arrangers adapt existing pieces for different instrumentations or styles, helping music come alive in fresh ways.

8. Collaborative Composer: Collaboration is a vital skill in the music industry. Graduates can work with artists from different disciplines, such as dance, theater, and visual arts, to create interdisciplinary performances and experiences.

9. Music Publisher or Editor: Some graduates may find success as music publishers or editors, helping to prepare and distribute scores to a wider audience. This role involves working with composers and musicians to ensure their compositions reach the public effectively.

10. Arts Administration: A background in composition can lead to opportunities in arts administration. Graduates can work for music organizations, festivals, or nonprofits, helping to coordinate and promote musical events and activities.

11. Entrepreneurship: M.M. in Composition graduates often possess strong entrepreneurial skills. They can establish their own music composition businesses, offering custom compositions, arrangements, and music services to clients.

12. Further Study: For those interested in a career in academia or music research, the M.M. can be a stepping stone to a Ph.D. in music composition or related fields.


Similar Courses
WhatsApp Enquiry Call Enquiry