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

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-08-18 00:00:00

Application deadline not specified.

Language

English

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Credits

60 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Kent, United States

Disciplines

Music Composition View 42 other PhDs in Music Composition in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

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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 Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

19954 USD / year

≈ 19954 USD / year
Out-of-State

19954 USD / year

≈ 19954 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

10706 USD / year

≈ 10706 USD / year

Living costs

Kent

United States

1036 - 1710 USD / month

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

Funding

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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

Overview

Learning Outcomes

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Kent

Funding

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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