B.M. in Music Composition

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Application Fee: $75

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their previous academic qualifications.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each component.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 72 or higher.
• PTE: Overall score of 49 or higher.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): Overall score of 105.

Wichita State University (WSU) offers several scholarships to international students to help them pursue their academic goals. These scholarships recognize academic achievement, leadership potential, and contributions to the WSU community. 

International Student Merit Scholarships: These scholarships are awarded to outstanding international undergraduate and graduate students based on their academic achievements. The amount of the scholarship varies depending on factors such as GPA and standardized test scores.

International Excellence Scholarships: WSU offers competitive scholarships to international undergraduate students who have a strong academic record and demonstrate leadership and community involvement. These scholarships can significantly reduce tuition costs.

Athletic Scholarships: WSU provides athletic scholarships to international student-athletes who excel in sports such as basketball, track and field, and tennis. These scholarships cover various expenses, including tuition, books, and accommodation.

Private Scholarships: WSU encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities, including those from governments, organizations, and foundations. The Office of International Education can assist students in finding relevant scholarships.

Departmental Scholarships: Some academic departments within WSU offer scholarships to students majoring in specific fields. These scholarships may be based on academic merit, leadership, or other criteria related to the student's chosen field of study.

Cultural Diversity Scholarships: These scholarships are designed to promote diversity and inclusion on campus. They are available to students from underrepresented backgrounds who contribute to the cultural diversity of WSU.

Conditional Scholarships: Conditional scholarships may be offered to students who meet academic requirements but require additional English language support. These scholarships often include language training as part of the package.

It's essential for international students to check the specific eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and scholarship amounts for each scholarship opportunity.

Graduates of the B.M. in Music Composition program from Wichita State University are prepared for a diverse range of careers in the music industry and related fields. The program's focus on advanced compositional skills, music theory, and practical experience provides students with the tools needed to succeed in various professional roles. 

Composer: As a composer, graduates can create original music for a variety of contexts, including orchestral works, chamber music, film scores, video games, and electronic media. Composers may work independently, collaborating with performers, directors, and producers to bring their musical ideas to life. They often work on commissions, create original compositions for specific projects, and may also self-publish their work.

Arranger: Graduates can pursue careers as arrangers, adapting existing music for different ensembles or settings. This role involves taking a piece of music and modifying it to fit the needs of a particular performance group, such as an orchestra, choir, or band. Arrangers play a crucial role in ensuring that music is effectively tailored to suit various performance contexts.

Film and Media Composer: For those interested in working in the entertainment industry, a career as a film and media composer offers opportunities to create music for movies, television shows, video games, and other media. This role involves collaborating with directors and producers to develop music that enhances the visual and emotional aspects of the media.

Music Educator: Graduates may choose to become music educators, teaching composition, music theory, and performance at various educational levels. They can work in schools, colleges, and universities, providing instruction and mentoring to students in composition and related subjects.

Music Director: A music director oversees the musical aspects of performances and productions, such as theater, film, and live events. This role involves selecting music, conducting rehearsals, and ensuring the overall quality of the musical presentation. Music directors may work with orchestras, choirs, and other performing groups.

Sound Designer: In the realm of multimedia, a career as a sound designer involves creating and manipulating audio elements for film, video games, and other digital media. Sound designers use their compositional skills to craft unique soundscapes that enhance the overall experience of the media.

Music Publisher: Graduates may work as music publishers, managing the rights and distribution of musical works. This role involves working with composers and arrangers to publish and promote their music, ensuring that their works reach a wide audience and are properly compensated.

Arts Administrator: A career in arts administration involves managing music organizations, festivals, or arts programs. Arts administrators handle tasks such as event planning, budgeting, and promotion, ensuring the smooth operation of musical events and organizations.

Music Critic/Journalist: Graduates with strong writing skills can become music critics or journalists, reviewing and analyzing music for publications, blogs, and online platforms. This role involves attending performances, conducting interviews, and providing insights into musical trends and developments.

Music Therapist: For those interested in the therapeutic applications of music, a career as a music therapist offers opportunities to use music to support individuals' emotional, cognitive, and physical well-being. Music therapists work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, schools, and private practices.