MM in Composition

Unleash Your Creative Potential and Become a Master Composer

Request Free Program Info

Step 1 of 2

We respect your privacy. Submitting this form constitutes your express written consent to receive emails, phone calls, text messages and/or other media from Webster University at the phone number(s) or email(s) received, including a wireless number(s). These emails, texts, calls or other media may be generated using automated technology. You may opt out of receiving any of these communications at any time. You are not required to provide this consent to receive services from Webster University.

Locations Offered
In Person
2 years
Time to Completion
$730
Cost Per Credit Hour
32
Credit Hours Required

Craft your musical voice

Webster’s master’s in Composition offers comprehensive and rigorous training in contemporary concert music, as well as opportunities to explore a wide range of musical styles and technologies. Under the guidance of experienced and accomplished faculty members, you'll develop your own unique voice as a composer — gaining the skills and knowledge to succeed in a variety of musical careers.

Why Webster for your Composition degree?

Become a successful composer

Whether you aspire to be a composer, producer, sound designer or instructor, our program will prepare you to make your mark on the world of music. Our MM in Composition is ideal for:

Harmoniously blend education and performance

Deepen your knowledge of music composition and develop your musicality through coursework, performances and collaborations. As a graduate of Webster’s MM in Composition, you will:

Immerse yourself in a vibrant musical community

Webster's master’s in Composition extends beyond theoretical knowledge, fostering hands-on learning through collaboration with our various ensembles and bands. Our Wet Ink project also pairs Webster composition students with professional performers. Culminate your graduate studies with a final recital that showcases a portfolio of your work.

Your course list

The 32 credit hours required for the MM in Composition must include the following courses:

Core Courses
  • Analytical Techniques I, II
  • Seminar in Music Literature

Performance Courses
  • Studio Composition
  • Webster University New Music Ensemble

Major Ensemble
  • Webster University Aurelia OR
  • Webster University Chorale OR
  • Webster University Orchestra OR
  • Webster University Wind Ensemble

Supportive Courses
  • Graduate Colloquium
  • Music of the Twentieth Century

Electives
  • Advanced Topics in Music Entrepreneurship
  • Eighteenth-Century Counterpoint
  • Independent Study
  • Jazz Scoring and Arranging I
  • Seminar in Music Pedagogy

In addition to these courses, all MM Composition students must submit a thesis project and present a final recital.

Learn More About Courses

A world of music at your doorstep

Elevate your music education at Webster University's St. Louis campus, just 15 minutes from downtown. Enjoy private instruction, ensemble performances, and world-class concerts from faculty, peers and professional groups. Enrich your experience with access to local vocal, instrumental and jazz organizations, including the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, Jazz St. Louis, and Opera Theatre of Saint Louis.

Achieve a rewarding career

Webster’s MM in Composition gives you the knowledge, skills, experience and network to achieve your goals. Our graduates have successful careers as songwriters, music producers, film composers and performers in St. Louis and around the world.

Tell Us About Your Goals

Achieve your personal and professional goals

We’re here to help

Webster is committed to your success, and you'll never be alone as you pursue your MM in Composition.

An education nationally recognized for quality

Earn your Master of Music in Composition from Webster University, an independent, nonprofit university accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and a member of the National Association of Schools of Music.

Learn from renowned musicians and composers

Combine theory and practice as you work alongside faculty members with professional composition experience. They will mentor you throughout your program and connect you with professional composers for additional study and performance opportunities.