Overview

The Music Theory and Composition programme at the University of Kansas provides an immersive environment for students to develop their unique creative voices and analytical skills. This curriculum is designed to bridge the gap between traditional musical foundations and contemporary innovation within a world-class research institution.

Students benefit from a faculty of internationally recognised scholars and composers who bring diverse expertise to the classroom. The academic environment encourages deep intellectual engagement with both standard common-practice repertoires and modern musical developments across various genres.

Why Music Theory and Composition at the University of Kansas?

The University of Kansas offers a distinctive interdisciplinary culture that allows theorists and composers to collaborate with experts in the humanities, sciences, and visual arts. This collaborative spirit is supported by the School of Music’s extensive facilities, including the renowned Murphy Hall and specialised performance venues.

The teaching staff includes specialists in niche fields such as film music, philosophy, critical theory, and modern rock. Composers at the university have contributed significant works to wind bands, orchestras, opera, and electronic music, providing students with a broad spectrum of professional mentorship.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 30177 per year
National fee: USD 30177 per year
Local fee: USD 11298 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum is structured to provide a professional sequence of study that balances creative output with rigorous theoretical analysis. Modules may include:

Music Theory
Music Composition
Film Music
Philosophy and Critical Theory
Rhythm and Meter
Modern Rock Music
Wind Band and Orchestra Composition
Opera and Choral Music
Instrumental and Vocal Chamber Music
Electronic Music
Keyboard Skills

Careers with Music Theory and Composition

Graduates from this programme are prepared for diverse roles within the global music industry and academia. The comprehensive training in composition and theory enables alumni to pursue successful careers as professional composers, orchestrators, and music editors.

Many students also progress into higher education roles, working as researchers or lecturers in musicology and theory. The skills gained in creative technology and electronic music further open opportunities in film scoring, game design, and digital media production.

Programme Structure

Courses included:

Composition

Theory

Recitals

Comp, Syn, Elec.

Critical Rdg & Wrtg

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-08-26 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-06-01 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-07-25 00:00:00 , National
Starting 2027-01-20 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-11-15 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-12-01 00:00:00 , National

Language

English

TOEFL^® IBT

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PTE Academic

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Lawrence, United States

Disciplines

Music Music Composition View 312 other Bachelors in Music Composition in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

3.2

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Submit your application to KU- make sure to select you are a music major.
Once accepted to the university, students are eligible to audtion for entry to the School of Music.
Please note: due to Covid 19 concerns, KU School of Music will be offering video auditions in lieu of the live auditions. After submission of a video audition, students are strongly encouraged to attend a faculty appointment over Zoom as scheduled upon video submission. Information about this can be found in the registration.
Complete a successful audition on your major instrument/voice.
Specific requirements by instrument can be found in the menu on the left.

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

30177 USD / year

≈ 30177 USD / year
Out-of-State

30177 USD / year

≈ 30177 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

11298 USD / year

≈ 11298 USD / year

Living costs

Lawrence

United States

900 - 1400 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Music Theory and Composition.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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

Lawrence

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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