Overview

The Music Performance - Composition programme at Eastern Illinois University offers a comprehensive curriculum designed for aspiring composers and performers. Students enrolled in this Bachelor of Music degree benefit from a rigorous academic environment that balances creative expression with technical mastery.

This programme is specifically structured as a Performance Option with a Concentration in Composition. It ensures that every student receives personalised, one-on-one guidance from expert faculty members in both their compositional work and their primary musical instrument.

A distinctive feature of the curriculum is the integration of performance and creation.

Why Music Performance - Composition at Eastern Illinois University?

The programme is fully accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music, ensuring that the education provided meets the highest national standards for excellence in the arts. This accreditation reflects the institution's commitment to quality and professional preparation.

Students have access to the Doudna Fine Arts Centre, a premier facility that serves as the hub for musical innovation and performance. This centre provides the necessary infrastructure for students to record, practice, and showcase their evolving portfolios to the public.

The university hosts the Composers' Forum concerts every semester, which are vital for professional development. These events provide a dedicated platform for student composers to have their work performed and heard by peers, faculty, and the wider community.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 13037 per year
National fee: USD 10430 per year
Local fee: USD 10430 per year

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

Syllabus

Modules may include:

Music
Music Performance: Composition
Music Performance: Instrumental
Music Performance: Keyboard
Music Performance: Vocal
Music Education
Jazz Studies
Audio and Recording Technology
Conducting

Careers with Music Performance - Composition

Graduates are prepared for diverse roles within the global music industry, focusing on both performance and creative output. The dual emphasis on composition and instrumental proficiency allows alumni to pursue paths as professional composers, arrangers, or performing artists.

The skills acquired during the four-year programme also support careers in music education and studio instruction. By developing a professional portfolio through the Composers' Forum and senior recitals, students are well-positioned to enter the competitive arts sector or pursue further graduate studies.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Music History

Music Theory/Analysis

Music Composition Study

Comprehensive Musicianship

Music Technology

Musical Masterworks

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-13 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-11-01 00:00:00 , International
Starting 2027-08-19 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-05-15 00:00:00 , International

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

105

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Charleston, United States

Disciplines

Music Music Composition Music Performance View 2679 other Bachelors in Music in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

2.5

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

105

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Other requirements

General requirements

Official records (transcripts or mark sheets) beginning with secondary school. A minimum grade point average of a 2.5 on a 4.0 scale is required. All transcripts become property of this University.

English Language Proficiency Requirement

A completed International Student Financial Affidavit Form and a bank statement (submitted online via MyEIU account), documenting sufficient funding for the intended program of study.

A passport copy is required.

Non-refundable application fee of $30.00 U.S. in the form of a check, certified check or money order made payable to Eastern Illinois University, application fee is valid for one year.

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

13037 USD / year

≈ 13037 USD / year
Out-of-State

10430 USD / year

≈ 10430 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

10430 USD / year

≈ 10430 USD / year

Living costs

Charleston

United States

1100 - 1500 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 Performance - 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

Charleston

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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