photo of composer in front of orchestra with movie screen behind them

School of Audio and MusicMusic Composition Bachelor's Degree

  • BMus

About the Music Composition Major

Are you ready to find your unique sound and explore career opportunities in music? In the Music Composition BMus program at Columbia College Chicago, you’ll embark on a transformative journey to develop your creative voice as a composer and performer. Imagine crafting music that resonates across diverse mediums — including theater, dance, film, or the concert stage. In our collaborative and supportive environment, you’ll hone your skills while building a substantial portfolio of original work that showcases your artistic vision.

Examples of Music Composition Careers
  • Arranger 
  • Film, TV, and game composer 
  • Music educator
  • Music producer
  • Songwriter 
  • Sound Designer 

The Student Experience

Ready to take your music skills to the next level? In Columbia College Chicago’s Music Composition BMus degree program, you’ll gain hands-on experience with the latest music notation and production software, master digital and acoustic orchestration, and dive into multitrack recording. Plus, you’ll collaborate in ensembles and get private lessons from professional musicians who are passionate about helping you shine.

  • Engage in collaborative music-makingAll Music majors perform in ensembles as part of their coursework, gaining invaluable experience in contemporary, urban, and popular styles. You’ll explore genres such as pop, rock, jazz, and gospel, directed by our accomplished faculty.
  • Participate in performance opportunitiesChicago’s vibrant music scene offers numerous chances to perform both on campus and in local venues. The Music Center hosts over 200 performances and workshops each year, providing a dynamic platform for students to showcase their talents.
  • Learn from a faculty of music professionals Our faculty members are professional musicians, renowned as composers, performers, and music educators. They have released solo recordings, written original compositions and arrangements, and toured with well-known bands. They are Grammy, Emmy, and Dove Award winners and nominees.
  • Study with artists-in-residence Professional musicians come for week-long residencies every semester; they lead workshops and master classes with student ensembles as well as recording sessions and public performances.
  • Take advantage of private lessons Hone your individual skills and techniques in your primary performance area and gain mentoring experiences essential to achieving your career goals.

photo of group of students in ensemble

Career Readiness

Many alumni and faculty mentor and collaborate with enrolled students, and our graduates often work and perform together, building lifelong relationships and a strong Columbia presence in the Chicago music scene. Music graduates are performers, composers, educators, and music business professionals.

  • Networking opportunities with alumni

    Connect with established creative professionals through workshops, events, and internships facilitated by Columbia's alumni network.

  • Student work that opens doors

    Build a body of work and work with our Career Center to help you land that dream job.

ALumni Spotlight

a group of alumni standing in front of Columbia building

24 in 2024

"24 in 2024" recognizes alumni from Columbia College Chicago for their professional achievements beyond their academic journeys. Learn more.

98%

of 2023 grads are employed, enrolled in continued education, or pursuing their creative practice.

Learn More

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