A degree in music composition lays a foundation for graduate study or further experiences writing music in classical, sacred, educational, commercial, or film genres.
Auditions
Entrance auditions are required for this major. You must be admitted to both Northwestern and the Department of Music & Theatre to major in Music Composition. Please refer to the Music Admissions & Scholarships for audition requirements and dates.
Music composition may be the right degree for you if you
- Have a passion for composing your own music
- Want to understand the structure of music more deeply
- Are interested in a career in music
Why study music composition at Northwestern?
At Northwestern, you will get personal attention from music faculty who are skilled teachers, seasoned performers, sought-after conductors, and acclaimed composers and are dedicated to your growth in both musical excellence and faith. Your Composition degree includes multiple opportunities to have your work performed live by other student musicians, including a full senior recital. Expand your education beyond course requirements by attending performances of world-class professional ensembles located in nearby Minneapolis and St. Paul, getting involved in local church and community music opportunities, or collaborating with a UNW student filmmaker.
The University of Northwestern – St. Paul has been an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM) since 1986.
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median pay in 2024
jobs in 2024
degree required
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for Music Directors and Composers. Retreived May 2025.
Careers in music composition
There are a variety of career and academic pathways that begin with a degree in music composition.
What types of work are related to this degree?
- Freelance composer or arranger
- Church worship leader
- Behind the scenes: audio, recording, production
- Concert promotion
- Concert hall management or administration
- Music program coordination
- Music critic
- Artist representation
- Arts administration or management
- Promotion/media relations
- Music librarian
- Commercial/advertising jingle writing
What will I learn?
You will learn to analyze, think critically, and compose sheet music.
MTC4305
Analytic Techniques
A survey of standard analytical techniques applied to major forms from the Baroque through the Modern period. Includes an introduction to the analysis of 20th-century music: set theory, Schenkerian analysis and newer compositional techniques.
MTC4209
Choral Arranging
A study of the technique of arranging music for voices.
MTC4207
Orchestration
Study of the characteristics and capabilities of orchestral instruments as applied to composing, orchestrating and arranging.
MTC1007
Music Theory Foundations
A study of the foundational concepts of music: pitch, rhythm, scales, modes, intervals, chords, and harmony with an introduction to notation software, piano, and singing.
MUP3160
Private Composition – Major
Original work drawn from standard musical forms with a focus on melodic and motivic construction. Required Composition Lab meets weekly with the composition teacher.
MUP4696
Senior Recital – Full
Full recital for seniors in a Bachelor of Music major.
MEP1012
Audio Production
This course introduces students to the world of Audio Production. Students will examine the history, theory and practice of audio production plus investigate the unique properties of the medium. In addition to providing extensive hands-on experience through production exercises and projects, the course places considerable emphasis on aesthetic analysis of audio products through a series of “critical listening” exercises. The concept of sound design for radio, TV, film and animation is applied to the various productions. Students will see how the power of sound can influence audiences and shape their mood and emotion.
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