Program Overview

Introduction to the Master of Arts or Master of Fine Arts in Composition and Theory

The Master of Arts or Master of Fine Arts in Composition and Theory is a graduate program offered by Brandeis University. The program is designed to help students develop a command of the craft of composition, supported by studies in theory and analysis, and electro-acoustic music.

Program Overview

The program offers both a one-year MA and a two-year MFA in composition and theory. The one-year MA program is suitable for students who want to engage in beginning graduate study without making a multi-year commitment. The two-year MFA program offers more in-depth study and requires writing a master's thesis in the form of an original composition.

Curriculum

Master of Arts (MA) Curriculum

• Complete seven-and-a-half courses in composition, tonal writing, and tonal and nontonal analysis, as well as the proseminar Theory and Composition.
  • Begin a composition during the first semester and complete it in time to be performed in the spring graduate composers' concert (New Music Brandeis).
  • Attend departmental musicology colloquia.
  • Be in residence for one year.

Master of Fine Arts (MFA) Curriculum

• Complete 12 courses in composition, tonal and nontonal analysis, and electro-acoustic music.
  • Compile a portfolio and pass a written exam at the end of the second year.
  • Write an original composition to be performed by New Music Brandeis.
  • Attend departmental musicology colloquia.
  • Be in residence for two years.

Facilities and Resources

The university offers state-of-the-art facilities, including:

• The Slosberg Music Center, which houses 30 pianos, including the one used by Leonard Bernstein as a child.
• The Jencks Early Music Room, which contains an extensive collection of period instruments, including two harpsichords and an historic Viennese fortepiano.
• The Brandeis Electro-Acoustic Music Studio (BEAMS).
• The Creative Arts Library, with holdings in scholarly music editions, journals, and microfilm reprints of original materials, as well as the Walter F. and Alice Gorham Collection of Early Music Imprints.

Careers and Alumni

Many graduates of the program go on to pursue a doctoral degree in composition and theory or a related field and are now on the faculty of prestigious institutions.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Partial need-based tuition scholarships are available from the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences. The music department may also recommend additional merit scholarships, determined on a case-by-case basis.

Program Details

• Program Length: One year (MA) or two years (MFA)
• Credits: 7.5 courses + composition (MA); 12 courses + composition (MFA)
• Entry Term: Fall
• Cost of Attendance: Available via the university's calculator