Overview

This degree program is based on the premise that original composition of high quality requires a strong background in theory, and that significant scholarship in theory requires experience in original composition.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates of this Music Theory - Composition program from Kent State University will be able to:

Compile a body of completed compositions.

Demonstrate and apply compositional techniques for creation of new works, including musical style and structure.

Analyze music from a wide range of styles and style periods, and communicate results in written and oral formats.

Recognize, identify and analyze representative literature from different historical periods, countries and composers.

Communicate knowledge of composition, theory and other aspects of music in classroom and private teaching.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

History of Music Theory

Schenkerian Analysis

Post-tonal Theory

Seminar in Music Since 1900

Pedagogy of Music Theory

Composition

Key information

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2025-01-13 00:00:00

Application deadline not specified.
Starting 2025-05-13 00:00:00

Application deadline not specified.
Starting 2025-08-19 00:00:00

Application deadline not specified.

Language

English

IELTS

Schedule an IELTS test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Pass IELTS with Swoosh English! Sign up for a free writing masterclass or claim your exclusive 25% Studyportals discount and accelerate your preparation by taking a course designed by experts to get you the results you need.

Credits

60 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Disciplines

Music Musicology Music Composition View 52 other PhDs in Musicology in United States

Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

IELTS

Schedule an IELTS test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Student insurance

Make sure to cover your health, travel, and stay while studying abroad. Even global coverages can miss important items, so make sure your student insurance ticks all the following:

Additional medical costs (i.e. dental)
Repatriation, if something happens to you or your family
Liability
Home contents and baggage
Accidents
Legal aid

We partnered with Aon to provide you with the best affordable student insurance, for a carefree experience away from home.

Get your student insurance now

Starting from €0.53/day, free cancellation any time.

Remember, countries and universities may have specific insurance requirements. To learn more about how student insurance work at Kent State University and/or in United States, please visit Student Insurance Portal.

Other requirements

General requirements

Master's degree from an accredited college or university
Minimum 3.000 undergraduate GPA on a 4.000 point scale
Official transcript(s)
Résumé
Goal Statement
Three letters of recommendation
Substantial term paper on a theoretical topic or a master's thesis in music theory written in English
Minimum three scores of original compositions demonstrating a variety of genres (chamber, orchestral, piano, choral, etc.)
English language proficiency

Tuition Fee

To always see correct tuition fees

International

19954 USD/year

Tuition Fee

Based on the tuition of 19954 USD per year
National

19954 USD/year

Tuition Fee

Based on the tuition of 19954 USD per year
In-State

10706 USD/year

Tuition Fee

Based on the tuition of 10706 USD per year

Living costs for Kent

1036 - 1710 USD /month

Living costs

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

In order for us to give you accurate scholarship information, we ask that you please confirm a few details and create an account with us.

Scholarships Information

Below you will find PhD's scholarship opportunities for Music Theory - Composition.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About