USC School of Music
COMPOSITION PROGRAM

How to Apply

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Students should first apply for general admission to USC and School of Music. For more information, please click on Admissions & Financial Aid tab at the left.

Students must also apply for admission to the Composition Program. If you are a high school senior, transfer, or new graduate student, this process will begin automatically when you apply for admission to the School of Music and indicate composition as your area of interest.

Current undergraduate students who wish to change their major to composition must apply for admission to the Composition Program. Contact the Director of Undergraduate Studies or Composition Program Coordinator for more information.

Required submissions vary by degree, but admission to all degrees requires the submission of three things: (1) a statement of purpose, (2) a composition portfolio, and (3) required supporting documentation as described below.

BM COMPOSITION

Statement of Purpose

The statement of purpose should take the form of a short letter (ca. 250) addressed to the Composition Program Coordinator that describes why you wish to major in composition, what you hope to accomplish as a composition major, and what you plan to do with your degree when you graduate, if anything.

Composition Portfolio

Written musical examples from 1-3 completed works. Works are normally two-sided bound copies with appropriate title/instrumentation/author information on the cover. Written musical examples usually take the form of short works for solo instrument (piano, guitar, violin, and so forth), or less often, works for chamber or large ensembles such as band, chorus, or jazz ensemble.

Recordings of those works are not necessary but would be helpful. CD, DVD, and VHS formats are currently acceptable formats.

Required Supporting Documentation

1. An official high school transcript or equivalent.
2. SAT scores; TOEFL scores are required for all non-native English speakers.
3. 1-3 letters of recommendation from teachers or other authorities familiar with your musical and/or academic background.
4. A list that includes the following: all music courses taken; any summer music camp experience; primary musical instrument(s) including length of study and music awards or honors you’ve received.
5. A brief list of music you like, listen to, and play.

MM & DMA COMPOSITION

Statement of Purpose

The statement of purpose should take the form of a cover letter (ca. 250) addressed to the Composition Program Coordinator. It should contain an explanation of why you have chosen to apply for admission to our program and what you hope to accomplish while at USC.

Composition Portfolio

Submission of at least 3 representative scores; include recordings of those works if possible (CD, DVD and VHS are currently accepted).

Required Supporting Documentation

1. Resume/C. V. - A resume or curriculum vitae that includes a typed summary of educational and professional experience.
2. List of Works - A list of completed compositions that includes the following information: date of composition, duration, instrumentation, and a list of all performances.
3. Writing Sample - A sample of your writing in the form of a published article or term paper.
4. Personal Essay - A brief, 1-2 page essay outlining your goals, ambitions, and interests as a composer.

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Updated 5/6/2005 by Reginald Bain