Illinois State University United States

Music - New Media Composition (B.M.)

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

As a student pursuing the Music - New Media Composition (B.M.) at Illinois State University, you will dive into the dynamic world where music creation intersects with digital innovation. This undergraduate degree is crafted for aspiring composers who envision their work in contemporary media like video games, films, and online platforms. You will explore the fusion of artistic expression with cutting-edge technology, gaining foundational skills in sound editing, sound design, and virtual reality programming. This program is ideal for those eager to shape the future of auditory experiences across diverse digital landscapes.

This full-time, on-campus Bachelor of Music program is structured over four years, providing a comprehensive education that balances theoretical knowledge with practical application. You will engage with faculty from both the School of Music and the School of Creative Technologies, benefiting from diverse perspectives and expertise. Throughout your studies, you will have opportunities for your original compositions to be performed by university ensembles and to collaborate on innovative technology projects. You will graduate with a robust portfolio and the advanced creative and technical competencies to launch a career in new media composition.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Bachelor of Music program in New Media Composition provides a comprehensive foundation in music theory, performance, and the integration of technology. Students will engage in core music courses, applied music studies, and performance organizations throughout their four years. The curriculum also incorporates general education requirements and specialized electives in creative technologies and new media composition, culminating in advanced studies and senior-level projects.

1 First Year - Fall Semester (14 credit hours)

ENG 101 or COM 110 General Education
MUS 100 Compulsory
MUS 122a10
Applied Music
Performance Organization
General Education course
General Education course

2 First Year - Spring Semester (14 credit hours)

ENG 101 or COM 110 General Education
MUS 100a02
MUS 101
MUS 107
MUS 122a20
Applied Music
Performance Organization
General Education course

3 Second Year - Fall Semester (15 credit hours)

MUS 102
MUS 108
MUS 122a30
MUS 110
MUS 205a01
MUS 275a01 or IDS 121a03 AMALI/General Education
Applied Music
Performance Organization
General Education course

4 Second Year - Spring Semester (14 credit hours)

MUS 201
MUS 207
MUS 110
MUS 205a02
MUS 275a01 or IDS 121a03 AMALI/General Education
Applied Music
Performance Organization
General Education course

5 Third Year - Fall Semester (16 credit hours)

MUS 167
MUS 205a02
MUS 213 or MUS 214 or MUS 219
MUS 220 or MUS 221 or MUS 222
MUS 253
MUS 303 or MUS 304 or MUS 305
Applied Music
Senior level Performance Organization
MUS 110

6 Third Year - Spring Semester (15 credit hours)

MUS 254
Senior level Applied Music
Senior level Performance Organization
MUS 110
Creative Technologies elective
General Education course
IDEAS Course

7 Fourth Year - Fall Semester (16 credit hours)

Music major elective
Senior level Performance Organization
MUS 110
Creative Technologies elective
General Education course
General Education course
Senior level University-wide elective

8 Fourth Year - Spring Semester (16 credit hours)

MUS 303 or MUS 304 or MUS 305
Music major elective
Senior level Performance Organization
MUS 110
Creative Technologies elective
General Education course
Senior level University-wide elective

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,132.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,132.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,132.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,132.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 96,528.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,000.00 - USD 1,600.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,000.00 - USD 4,560.00
Transport USD 600.00 - USD 1,200.00
Utilities & Bills USD 960.00 - USD 1,800.00
Estimated Total USD 4,560.00 - USD 7,560.00

Living cost estimates are based on Illinois Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

91%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Amusement & Recreation ServicesBlockchain & Emerging TechnologiesData Science & AnalyticsEmployment & Labor LawFilm & Television ProductionFintech & Mobile MoneyIT Support & Systems AdministrationReal Estate & Property LawSatellite CommunicationsTax & Financial Law

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Amazon Web Services

CDW

CrowdStrike

Salesforce

Screen Actors Guild–American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA)

Why Study Music - New Media Composition (B.M.) at Illinois State University

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Very Fast Application response time

Illinois State University typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 days, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at Illinois State University in United States

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Music - New Media Composition (B.M.) at Illinois State University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks without a separate work permit. On-campus work does not require any additional approvals.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To enroll, you must meet specific English test requirements. Acceptable tests include a Duolingo score of 105, a TOEFL overall score of 79, or an IELTS overall score of 6.5.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Potential job titles include Music Composer, Sound Designer, Audio Engineer, Music Producer, and Multimedia Artist.

What will I actually study in this course?

The program focuses on creating original music for new media, including video games and films. Students will engage in sound design and virtual reality programming while collaborating with faculty from both the School of Music and the School of Creative Technologies.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

You can start the Music - New Media Composition (B.M.) program in January, May, or August. Ensure you apply before the deadlines for your desired intake month.
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