Overview

The Theory and Composition programme at The University of New Mexico offers a dedicated pathway for students aiming to master the complexities of musical structure and creative writing. This Bachelor of Music degree provides a robust foundation in both class-based and individual instruction to foster artistic growth.

Why Theory and Composition at The University of New Mexico?

The curriculum is designed to prepare students for high-level graduate work in composition or music theory. Participants develop the technical skills necessary to write, hear, and theorise about music spanning from the sixteenth century to the contemporary era. The department emphasises a balance between creative output and critical analytical thinking.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 34594 per year
National fee: USD 34594 per year
Local fee: USD 11445 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum focuses on developing a deep understanding of musical language and structural design. Modules may include:

Theory
Composition
Applied Music
Music Education
Teaching Practicum
English Writing
Mathematics

Students must complete a minimum of 128 credit hours to earn the degree. The syllabus integrates core musical training with broader academic competencies to ensure a well-rounded professional education. Advanced modules allow for deeper exploration of specific historical periods and modern compositional techniques.

Careers with Theory and Composition

Graduates of this programme are well-equipped for a variety of professional paths within the global music industry. Many students progress to prestigious graduate programmes to further specialise in musicology or advanced composition. The skills gained during the degree are highly applicable to roles in education, media, and the performing arts.

Potential career destinations include working as professional composers, music theorists, or arrangers for various ensembles. The rigorous training in analysis and writing also prepares graduates for roles in arts administration and music publishing. By focusing on both historical and modern contexts, the university ensures its alumni remain competitive in a diverse range of creative sectors.

Programme Structure

Theory and Composition Proficiency

Theories in Music Composition

Culture and Composition

Stretch and Studio Composition
Music Repertory

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-08-18 00:00:00

Apply anytime.
Starting 2027-01-20 00:00:00

Apply anytime.

More details

Accepting students on a rolling basis, but ideally you should start your application about 10-12 months before the term your plan to start.

Language

English

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IELTS

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Albuquerque, United States

Disciplines

Music Musicology Music Composition View 311 other Bachelors in Music Composition in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

2.5

English requirements

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IELTS

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Other requirements

General requirements

Completion of 26 hours of earned credit.

• GPA of at least 2.50

• Competency in English writing as demonstrated by: achieving a score of 26 or higher on the English section of the ACT examination or 660 SAT Verbal or, completion of ENGL 101 or 110 or 112 or 113 with a grade of C or better, or receiving credit through Advanced Placement Exam or International Baccalaureate program.

• Competency in Mathematics as demonstrated by: achieving a score of 22 or higher on the Math section of the ACT examination or 540 SAT Math, or completion of MATH 120 or MATH 101 & 102 with a grade of C or better, placement into college-level Math by Compass exam, or receiving credit through Advanced Placement Exam or International Baccalaureate program.

• An Approval to Concentrate in appropriate instrument or voice as demonstrated by completion of the first 2 semesters of Applied Music and enrollment in the 3rd semester is required. A signed form is required.

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

34594 USD / year

≈ 34594 USD / year
Out-of-State

34594 USD / year

≈ 34594 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

11445 USD / year

≈ 11445 USD / year

Living costs

Albuquerque

United States

870 - 1360 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 Theory and Composition.

Available Scholarships

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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

Albuquerque

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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