Master of Music in Composition

About

The Master of Music is offered by the School of Music with options in music education, performance, composition, theory, music history and literature, and accompanying. The student should consult with the coordinator of Graduate Studies in Music for additional information regarding the individualized nature of each option. The Master of Music in Composition program at Boston University provides opportunities to study composition and allied topics within the robust environment of a professional music school within a college of fine arts. Collaborations with accomplished musicians and artists complement a strong curriculum in music theory, musicology, and performance. At the completion of the program, students are expected to demonstrate: Knowledge and skill in related fields such as music history and literature, musicology, ethnomusicology, and performance. Advanced knowledge of current compositional trends and repertoire and development of a personal voice. Advanced proficiency in tonal and post-tonal analysis. Superior proficiency in verbal and written communication of musical ideas and concepts. Capacity for artistic judgment and skills for navigating the professional world. The Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Music Composition is a terminal degree program designed for composers seeking to refine their creative voice and develop a professional portfolio of original works. Through intensive study in composition, orchestration, theory, and contemporary techniques, students work closely with faculty mentors and ensembles to bring their music to life. The program emphasizes both artistic innovation and practical experience, preparing graduates for careers in concert music, film scoring, multimedia collaboration, and higher education. Our program is small enough to enable extensive direct contact with faculty, and our graduates find themselves well-prepared for their careers or further study. 

Career Path 

Graduate career path includes Theatre & Musical Theatre Composer (Stage Productions, Musicals), Film & TV Composer (Soundtracks, Scores, Background Music), Composer (Orchestral, Chamber, Choral, Solo Works), Video Game Composer (Interactive & Adaptive Music Design), Academic Lecturer / Professor (Composition, Music Theory, Contemporary Music), Sound Designer (Film, Theatre, Games, Multimedia), Songwriter (Popular Music, Commercial Releases), Arranger/Orchestrator (Adaptations, Ensemble Works, Studio Projects), Music Producer (Recording, Mixing, Creative Direction), Publishing Specialist (Sheet Music, Digital Distribution), Musicologist (Research in Composition, Theory, and History), Concert Music Director (Programming, Commissioning New Works), Music Editor (Film, TV, Publishing), Grant Writer / Development Officer (Arts Organizations, Composer Residencies).