Admission to the program

Incoming freshmen may be admitted to the composition program after a review of sample compositions and an interview with the composition faculty (normally on one of the Mizzou Music Days). This is in addition to an audition on the major instrument/voice, which is required of all prospective music majors.

Current music majors not previously admitted to composition must apply, typically toward the end of the sophomore year of study:

1. File an application with the coordinator of the Composition Area no later than April 1 of the sophomore year.
2. Take an examination in stylistic writing and analysis, dictation, sight-singing, and keyboard.
   • Students may be exempt from this exam if the application has been approved by the composition faculty and a grade of B or better has been earned in all composition and theory courses.

Music Course Requirements (88-92 credits)

1. Music Theory and Composition (including Capstone) 46 credits
   • Students enroll in Music 4216, Composition VI, and complete a special project that integrates previous studies in music theory, composition, and music history. A written report including the methodology, rationale for the media, and stylistic aspects of this work must be presented during the winter semester of the senior year.
2. Music History, 12 credits
3. Applied Music (Studio Instruction), 20 credits
   • Primary applied study: eight semesters of two-credit applied music study (four semesters at 2455 and four semesters at 3455) on primary instrument.
   • Secondary applied study: four semesters of one-credit appiled music study (Music 1435) on different media; will be chosen in consultation with the composition faculty.
4. Ensembles, 8 credits
   • Students must participate in one major ensemble each semester on their principal instrument, as assigned by the music faculty.
5. Other Music (Group Piano, Conducting, Recital Attendance), 2-6 credits
   • Non-piano majors with piano skills may audition to test out of some or all of the sequence, or to take higher-level studio instruction.

Non-Music Requirements (36-40 credits)

see Composition Graduation Plan

It may be possible to test out of certain non-music requirements or be excused on the basis of Advance Placement or Dual Enrollment credit (see “Advance Standing Options” in the Undergraduate Catalog). All non-music transfer credit is approved and evaluated by the Office of Admissions.

MU General Education Requirements

Electives (6 credits)

Generally academic music or non-music courses, although up to two may taken in Chamber Music (1846) or a large ensemble on a secondary instrument or voice.

Graduation Plan

A Graduation Plan must be submitted to College of Arts & Science during the semester in which the student passes the 60-credit-hour threshold (normally during the sophomore year) in order to register for subsequent semesters. The Plan must be signed by the student’s advisor and the Associate Director, and then presented, along with two photocopies, to the Arts & Science Advising Office (107 Lowry Hall). Completion of this form is intended to insure that the student has a clear plan of study, including all college and school requirements, before the beginning of the junior year.

Grade Requirements

Grades of D may not be used to fulfill music requirements without the approval of the advisor, Associate Director or Director, and the Dean; and the student must achieve an overall average of 2.0 in all courses taken.

In addition, composition majors must earn a grade of B in all composition and theory courses. Students failing to do so may continue on a probationary basis only. Reinstatement as a composition major can be accomplished only by approval of the composition faculty.