B.M. in Music Composition

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 70% or above in their previous academic qualifications.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 79 or higher.
• PTE: Overall score of 53 or higher.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 115.

ISU offers several scholarships and financial aid options for international students to help them pursue their academic goals. These scholarships are based on academic achievements, leadership skills, and other criteria. 

International Tuition Waiver: International students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance and show promise for contributing to the ISU community may be eligible for tuition waivers. These waivers can significantly reduce the cost of tuition.

Redbird Academic Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to incoming undergraduate international students who have outstanding academic records. The scholarship amount varies depending on the student's academic achievements.

Redbird International Ambassador Scholarship: This scholarship recognizes outstanding leadership skills and contributions to the international community. Recipients of this scholarship serve as ambassadors for international students at ISU.

College-Specific Scholarships: Various colleges within ISU offer scholarships for international students pursuing specific academic programs. These scholarships are often based on academic performance and potential for success in the chosen field of study.

Study Abroad Scholarships: ISU encourages international students to engage in study abroad programs to gain global experiences. The university offers scholarships to support international students' participation in these programs.

International students interested in applying for scholarships at ISU should review the specific eligibility criteria and application deadlines for each scholarship.

Graduates of Illinois State University's Bachelor of Music (B.M.) in Music Composition program possess a versatile skill set that prepares them for various career paths in the music industry and beyond.

Composer: Many alumni pursue careers as composers, creating original music for diverse settings such as orchestral performances, chamber music ensembles, film scores, television, and multimedia projects. They leverage their composition skills to express artistic vision and collaborate with performers and directors.

Arranger: Some graduates specialize in arranging music for different instrumental combinations, vocal groups, or genres. They adapt existing compositions or create new arrangements to meet specific artistic or commercial needs in music production, publishing, and performance.

Music Producer: Graduates with strong technical skills may pursue careers as music producers, overseeing recording sessions, mixing, and mastering music tracks. They collaborate with artists, engineers, and record labels to create polished and commercially viable music productions across various genres.

Music Educator: Many alumni choose to become music educators, teaching composition, music theory, and performance in schools, colleges, and private studios. They inspire and mentor students, fostering creativity and musical excellence through instruction and ensemble coaching.

Film and Media Scoring: With the growth of digital media, some graduates specialize in film scoring and multimedia production. They create emotional and atmospheric music that enhances visual storytelling in movies, television shows, video games, and advertising campaigns.

Freelance Musician: Some alumni establish freelance careers, performing as instrumentalists or vocalists in orchestras, bands, recording sessions, and live performances. They also offer their services as session musicians or solo performers, showcasing their technical proficiency and artistic expression.

Arts Administration: Graduates interested in management and advocacy may pursue careers in arts administration. They work for orchestras, opera companies, music festivals, and arts organizations, overseeing programming, marketing, fundraising, and community engagement initiatives.

Entrepreneurship: Many alumni choose entrepreneurial paths, establishing their own music composition studios, production companies, or music publishing ventures. They offer services such as music licensing, custom composition, and sound design for film, games, and multimedia projects.