About this Program

The ODU Bachelor of Music in Composition program focuses on the development of composition, analysis and computer skills and is based on a comprehensive study of the theoretical background of music from all periods and various cultures. Do you have musical ideas but struggle to communicate them to others? Do you want to learn how to quickly get your musical ideas in a form that can be played by musicians? Are you fascinated with how music makes a game or movie come alive?

Program Highlights

  • Comprehensive compositional, theoretical and historical curriculum taught on a high level Lecture-recital containing 30 minutes of original music must be presented around the time of the final semester of Music Composition lessons.

  • Numerous ensembles and individual performers available for performances of works by students composers.

  • At least one public performance of a composition per semester is required starting with the third semester of Music Composition lessons .

AT A GLANCE
Degree Level
Undergraduate
Degree Earned
Bachelor of Music
Delivery Modes
On-Campus

Careers

Check out these ideas from ODU Career Development Services and the Occupational Information Network (O*NET). A median salary is a midpoint of what people typically earn—half of those surveyed earned above the median salary, and half earned below.

Music Directors and Composers

$61,490 Median Salary

Conduct, direct, plan, and lead instrumental or vocal performances by musical groups, such as orchestras, bands, choirs, and glee clubs. Includes arrangers, composers, choral directors, and orchestrators.

Producers

$90,770 Median Salary

Plan and coordinate various aspects of radio, television, stage, or motion picture production, such as selecting script, coordinating writing, directing and editing, and arranging financing.

Sound Engineering Technicians

$68,180 Median Salary

Operate machines and equipment to record, synchronize, mix, or reproduce music, voices, or sound effects in sporting arenas, theater productions, recording studios, or movie and video productions.

Music Composers and Arrangers

$61,490 Median Salary

Write and transcribe musical scores.

Alumni Careers

Freelance
Universities
Private

Requirements

What are the requirements to apply for Music Composition at ODU?
Students entering the Bachelor of Music program in Music Composition should meet the minimum university admission requirements Undergraduate Admission.
  • A portfolio consisting of several works for any medium and in any style is required to be considered for the program along with general admission requirements. 

  • To schedule an admission audition visit the following page: https://app.getacceptd.com/odmusic

For Admission to the Music Composition Program

GPA

3.00

TOEFL score

paper based: 550, internet based 79

IELTS score

6.5

Transfer

At ODU, we understand that as a transfer student you have unique needs that require a wide array of campus resources. The Center for Advising Administration and Academic Partnerships aims to create a transfer inclusive culture that supports the successful...

Cost

Estimated rates for the 2023-24 academic year. Rates are subject to change. Anyone that is not a current Virginia resident will be charged non-resident rates. That includes international students.

Active Duty Military Rate
Cost Per-Credit $250
Virginia Resident
Cost Per-Credit $393
Technology Delivered Courses Outside Virginia and/or the United States
Cost Per-Credit $407
Non-Resident
Cost Per-Credit $1,073

Ways to Save

Here are a few ways for you to save on the cost of attending ODU. For more information visit University Student Financial aid

Transfer Articulation Agreements

To simplify the transfer process, we have formal agreements with certain institutions. These agreements outline the courses you should take to prepare for transferring to ODU.
Review the full list of transfer articulation agreements to see if your institution is listed.

Diehn, Breneiser and Vogan scholarships are available to Music Composition students.

Contact

Professor

244 DIEHN CENTER
NORFOLK, 23529