A student-centered approach to academic courses in Music Theory and Composition

Kent State offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in Music Theory and Composition.

Undergraduate Information Graduate Information

Faculty

Joshua Albrecht	Richard Devore
H. Gerrey Noh	Adam Roberts (Composition)

Undergraduate

Degree Offered

B.M. in Music

Features

Includes specialization in music theory and composition.
Provides preparation for graduate study in the field and the ability to compose and use technology in a variety of musical styles.
All undergraduate music majors complete an intensive, four-semester core curriculum of music theory, aural skills, and keyboard skills. These skills provide the foundation for future studies in music, as well as enhancing overall musicianship.
Applied instrumental or vocal study along with seminars and private composition lessons.

Find Your Applied Studio

All undergraduate composition majors must present an instrumental or vocal audition for admission into the program.

Minors to Compliment Your Major

Music Minor	Jazz Studies Minor
World Music Minor	Arts Entrepreneurship Minor

Graduate

Degrees Offered

M.A. in Composition

M.A. in Music Theory

Ph.D. in Music Theory-Composition

Master’s

The master's programs in music theory (MA) and composition (MM) are designed to advance the academic and creative skills of students and to prepare them for admission to doctoral study.
The composition program emphasizes mastery of large-scale works for media including orchestra, choir, band and/or chamber music ensembles.
The music theory program further develops abilities in music theory including analytical, aural, written, keyboard, and pedagogical skills.

Ph.D.

The doctoral program in music theory and composition (Ph.D.) is a unique program that features both creative and research-based study.
Students complete a core of two years of academic coursework and a two-part dissertation that includes both an original composition and scholarly research in music theory.

Graduate Assistantships

A limited number are available every year.
Graduate students receiving assistantships in the music theory and composition area will experience teaching first-year aural skills and music theory tutoring undergraduate students, proctoring placement exams during audition days, and assisting faculty in the music theory & composition area.

Questions or Want More Information?

Contact
Glauser School Admissions
musicadmissions@kent.edu | 330-672-2172

Scholarships, Financial Aid & Graduate Assistantships

Scholarship & Financial Aid

Undergraduate Music Scholarships

Music majors are eligible for scholarships and other forms of financial assistance from a variety of sources.

Several of these programs are administered directly by the School of Music, others are coordinated through the Financial, Billing and Enrollment Center. It is possible to receive combined assistance from more than one source.

SCHOOL OF MUSIC SCHOLARSHIPS

Awarded for outstanding musicianship upon recommendation of the audition committee at the time of acceptance to the School of Music. One audition applies to both acceptance and scholarship application.
Scholarships range in a variety of amounts per academic year and may be available for up to four years (eight semesters) provided students meet academic and performance expectations for renewal.
Most of these scholarships are awarded soon after our March audition date.

Questions about School of Music Scholarships?

Contact:
H. Gerrey Noh, Undergraduate Studies Coordinator
hnoh@kent.edu | 330-672-2397

KSU ORCHESTRA SOCIETY SCHOLARSHIPS

Service scholarships awarded by the society in support of the activities of Kent State University Orchestra.
Awarded to exceptional candidates by the Orchestra Director.
Amount of awards vary according to talent and need and may be renewable.
May be awarded in addition to other School of Music Scholarships.
Continuation of the scholarship is based upon artistic development and fulfillment of service responsibilities.

Marching Golden Flash Award

SCHOLARSHIP DETAILS

$1,000 divided into two $500 installments between the fall and spring semesters.
Recipients must participate in ALL required activities of the Marching Golden Flashes.

ELIGIBILITY

Incoming Kent State University first-year students.
Past returning members of the Marching Golden Flashes.
Must be enrolled in classes at Kent State as a full time undergraduate or graduate student..
Open to students of ANY major at Kent State.

QUESTIONS ABOUT THIS SCHOLARSHIP?

Email bands@kent.edu

Graduate Assistantships

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE GRADUATE ASSISTANTSHIPS OFFERED BY THE GLAUSER SCHOOL OF MUSIC

The Glauser School of Music offers graduate assistantships in applied music performance, conducting, ethnomusicology, music education, string quartet and theory. Appointments begin August of the academic year.

STIPEND, TUITION WAIVER AND APPOINTMENT DETAILS

Stipend

All graduate assistantships (Master’s and Ph.D.) carry a stipend.
Ranges: $3,750-$10,000, depending on workload and degree level.

Tuition Waiver

Master’s Students: 9 credits per semester
Ph.D. Students: 9 credits per semester

Appointment

Graduate assistantship duties are assigned as appropriate for the student’s area of study or expertise.
Workload: 10 hours (half-time) or 20 hours (full-time) per week.