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Composition: Music, D.M.A.

School of Music

Prepare to help students explore their original ideas in a rigorous and creative environment committed to musical excellence. Advance your professional composition skills through one-to-one instruction.

Receive faculty-level training in composition and related areas, and study in the corollary areas of theory and history. Work with digital technology to create and produce music. Attend master classes, lectures and performances of your compositions. A comprehensive exam, dissertation composition project and research document are required.

Program Highlights

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    Distinguished School

    Since 1969, the School of Music has consistently retained the distinctive National Association of Schools of Music accreditation.

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    Supportive Community

    Foster your creative learning, skill development and personal exploration through Spark: Music Leadership at Carolina.

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    Expanded View

    Study historical and contemporary practices, music theory, history, criticism and creative approaches.

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    Authentic Experiences

    Receive regular opportunities to hear your works performed in concerts.

What You’ll Study

Compose music by studying, listening to existing music and hearing the music you have created. Work with digital technology to create and produce music. Discuss topics related to creativity, composing and musical analysis. Participate in ensembles and collaborate with other students and visiting artists. Demonstrate faculty-level knowledge of compositional techniques.

Building Skills

Gain the professional and personal intelligence it takes to have a successful career.

  • Performance

    Presenting oneself creatively through a specific medium to an audience

    Decision-making Expertise

    Applying critical thinking and analytical skills to make informed and effective decisions

    Entrepreneurship

    Identifying opportunities and creating and launching new ventures

  • Innovation

    Introducing new ideas, methods or products to improve performance or achieve a specific goal

    Critical Thinking

    Analyzing and evaluating information to make informed decisions or judgments

    Understand Complexity

    Analyzing and synthesizing information to identify patterns and connections

Using your degree

Make your college experience the foundation for a successful future.

Potential Careers

  • Composition Professor
  • Composer
  • Arranger
  • Entrepreneur

Workplace Settings

  • Education
  • Film
  • Media
  • Technology
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