Colorado State University United States

Music Composition (Pre) (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

The Bachelor of Music Composition (B.M.) at Colorado State University is designed for aspiring composers who wish to develop their creative voice and technical proficiency within a comprehensive music curriculum. You will explore the art and craft of musical creation, from foundational music theory and aural skills to advanced orchestration and arranging. This program is ideal for students seeking to understand music's historical context and its role within a broader liberal arts framework, preparing you for a dynamic career in the music industry.

This full-time, on-campus undergraduate degree is structured over four years, guiding you through essential coursework including music history, piano proficiency, and applied music instruction. You will engage in practical experiences like ensemble participation, conducting, and teaching methods, culminating in a significant final project or recital. You will graduate with a robust portfolio and the skills necessary to pursue further studies or professional opportunities in composition, performance, or music education.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Bachelor of Music program in Music Composition provides a comprehensive four-year curriculum designed to develop students' musical abilities and theoretical understanding. The program progresses through foundational courses in music theory, aural skills, and music history during the freshman and sophomore years, alongside practical instruction in piano, voice, and instrumental techniques. Upper-division coursework focuses on advanced composition, conducting, music education methods, and specialized areas like arranging and orchestration, culminating in student teaching and a senior recital.

1 Freshman Year

College Composition
Music Theory I & II
Aural Skills I & II
Introduction to Music History and Literature
Piano Class I & II: Music Educators
Freshman Voice Studio
Singers Diction: German/English & French/Italian
Applied Music Instruction: Voice
Practicum-Introduction to Music Education
Instrumental Techniques: Strings
Instrumental Techniques: Brass
Instrumental Techniques: Woodwinds
Advanced Writing
Biological and Physical Sciences
Historical Perspectives

2 Sophomore Year

Schooling in the United States
Literacy and the Learner
Piano Skills for Choral Directors
Music Theory III & IV
Aural Skills III & IV
Applied Music Instruction: Voice

3 Junior Year

Educational Technology and Assessment
Instruction I-Individualization/Management
Practicum-Instruction I
Elementary Music Methods I & II
Beginning Conducting
Music Theory V
Applied Music Instruction: Voice
Arranging and Orchestration
Choral Conducting and Literature
Song Literature
Upper-Division Music History 4A/4B

4 Senior Year

Instruction II-Standards and Assessment
Choral Methods for Secondary Schools
Student Teaching: Elementary or Secondary
Practicum: Instruction II
Seminar: Professional Relations
Applied Music Instruction: Voice
Jazz Pedagogy
Vocal Pedagogy
Recital
Arts and Humanities
Ensemble Courses (Men's Chorus, University Chorus, Marching Band, Concert Band, Concert Orchestra)
Upper-Division Music History 4A/4B Courses
History of Jazz
Perspectives in Early Music History
Music of the Common Practice Era
20th and 21st Century Music
American Music

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,043.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,043.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,043.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,043.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 136,172.00

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

Living Costs

Food & Groceries USD 3,600.00 - USD 5,400.00
Transport USD 840.00 - USD 1,440.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,200.00 - USD 2,040.00
Estimated Total USD 5,640.00 - USD 8,880.00

Living cost estimates are based on Fort collins campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

84%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Amusement & Recreation ServicesAnimation & Visual EffectsEvent Promotion & ManagementGaming & Interactive MediaLive Events & ConcertsMuseums & Cultural HeritageSports & AthleticsStreaming & Digital ContentTalent & Artist ManagementTheme Parks & Leisure

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Denver Art Museum

Why Study Music Composition (Pre) (B.M.) at Colorado State University

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Very Fast Application response time

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

Life at Colorado 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 Composition (Pre) (B.M.) at Colorado State University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during the term and full-time during breaks. On-campus work does not require special permission.

What English language score do I need for this course?

English proficiency is essential, with requirements varying by test. For example, a Duolingo overall score of 110 is necessary, while IELTS requires an overall score of 6.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Job opportunities include Music Composer, Music Producer, Sound Designer, Music Teacher, and Arranger.

What will I actually study in this course?

The Bachelor of Arts in Music provides a broad education in music alongside a liberal arts curriculum. Key subjects include composition techniques and music theory.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

Students can start the Bachelor of Music Composition program in January or August each year. Make sure to plan your application accordingly.
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