The major in composition prepares professionals for careers that involve creation, synthesis or analysis of music. Careers available to graduates of this program (usually in conjunction with work towards a master’s and doctoral degree) include teaching, composing music (arts, educational and/or commercial), arranging, and copying.

Required courses for composition majors include instruction in composition, conducting, ensembles, General Education requirements, music electives, music history and literature, music theory and performance studies. Students also must participate in seven semesters of recital attendance to develop critical listening experience and knowledge of repertoire.