Overview

The Composition programme at Southern Methodist University offers a rigorous academic and creative environment for students dedicated to the art of musical creation. Hosted within the prestigious Meadows School of the Arts, this degree provides a structured pathway for developing a unique compositional voice through expert tuition.

Prospective students must demonstrate their musical proficiency through a multi-stage application process. This includes a performance audition on a principal instrument or voice, alongside a formal interview with the dedicated faculty members. These requirements ensure that every participant possesses the foundational skills necessary for success.

A central component of the admission process is the submission of a professional composition portfolio.

Why Composition at Southern Methodist University?

Studying at the Meadows School of the Arts provides students with access to world-class facilities and a faculty of active, professional composers. The institution is renowned for its commitment to the arts, offering a collaborative atmosphere where music students can interact with peers across various creative disciplines.

The programme is distinguished by its integration into the broader cultural landscape of Dallas, Texas. Students have numerous opportunities to have their works performed and critiqued, gaining vital experience in professional settings. The school’s emphasis on both traditional techniques and modern innovation prepares graduates for diverse careers in the music industry.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 30940 per semester
National fee: USD 30940 per semester
Local fee: USD 30940 per semester

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

Syllabus

The curriculum is designed to build technical mastery while encouraging individual expression. Modules may include:

Composition
Music Theory
Performance
Music History
Orchestration
Electronic Music
Counterpoint
Conducting

Careers with Composition

Graduates of this programme are prepared for a wide range of professional paths within the global music and media industries. Many alumni pursue careers as independent composers for concert halls, while others find success in commercial sectors such as film, television, and video game scoring.

The skills acquired at the university also enable graduates to work in music publishing, arts administration, and contemporary music production. Additionally, the rigorous training provides a strong foundation for those wishing to continue their studies at the master's or doctoral level, leading to roles in higher education and research.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Music Pathways: Exploring Meadows and Your Future

Music Engagement

Musicianship

Composition Studies

Form and Analysis

Analysis of Contemporary Music

Electro-Acoustic Music

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-25 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-15 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

115

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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

Dallas, United States

Disciplines

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

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

115

Take A Free Practice Test!

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

Completed application

$60 nonrefundable application fee

Official high school transcript

Official or self-reported SAT or ACT scores.

Official TOEFL, IELTS, OR Duolingo English Test (DET) results are required for students whose language of instruction is bilingual or not solely in English.

Counselor recommendation

Teacher recommendation (optional)

Extracurricular résumé

Home School Supplement (if applicable)

Review audition and portfolio requirements

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

61880 USD / year

≈ 61880 USD / year
Out-of-State

61880 USD / year

≈ 61880 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

61880 USD / year

≈ 61880 USD / year

Living costs

Dallas

United States

1140 - 1925 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 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

Dallas

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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