Temple University M.M. in Composition & Ph.D. in Music (Composition Concentration)

[Sam Wells]

Dear Colleagues,

Temple University’s M.M. in Composition & Ph.D. in Music (Composition Concentration) programs are accepting applications for Fall 2026. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to me directly.

Apologies for cross-postings.

Best wishes,

Sam Wells

Temple University Graduate Studies in Composition
M.M. in Composition & Ph.D. in Music (Composition Concentration)
Temple University’s Boyer College of Music and Dance welcomes applications for the Master of Music in Composition and Doctor of Philosophy in Music (Composition concentration) programs. These degrees offer composers the opportunity to refine their artistic craft, expand their technical and theoretical expertise, and engage deeply with new music creation and research. Combining creative practice with analytical and technological inquiry, the programs cultivate original artistic work grounded in critical inquiry, scholarship, and performance. Students work closely with distinguished faculty and ensembles to create and present new compositions, contribute to contemporary music discourse, and participate in Philadelphia’s active new-music community.

Program Features
 

• Advanced training in contemporary compositional practices, including instrumental, vocal, electroacoustic, and interdisciplinary media.
• Frequent performance and recording opportunities through ensembles such as the New Music Ensemble, Temple Composer’s Orchestra, and collaborations with the Boyer Electroacoustic Ensemble Project (BEEP).
• Opportunities to collaborate with artists across disciplines—including dance, film, theater, and visual media—through the College’s diverse creative community.
• Regular interaction with visiting performers, composers, and ensembles, providing valuable feedback and professional connections.
• Access to Philadelphia’s vibrant and diverse music scene, offering numerous venues, ensembles, and partnerships that support the creation and presentation of new work.
• Emphasis on professional portfolio development and preparation for academic and creative careers.
• The M.M. is a 30-credit program; the Ph.D. requires 42 credits beyond the master’s degree and culminates in a dissertation of original creative and scholarly work.
   

Faculty
Composition faculty include Erin Busch, David Bennett Thomas, Adam Vidiksis, Sam Wells, and Maurice Wright.

Financing Opportunities
Scholarships, teaching assistantships, and other forms of financial aid are available to qualified students.

Admission Requirements
Applicants should hold a bachelor’s degree in music with a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0. Competitive applicants typically have a GPA of 3.33 or higher. A portfolio of representative compositions is required for admission to both programs.

Application Deadline
January 15 (priority deadline for fall admission). Women, underrepresented minorities, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

More Information
M.M. program details: temple.edu/academics/degree-programs/composition-music-mm-bc-comp-mmus
Ph.D. program details: temple.edu/academics/degree-programs/music-phd-bc-musc-phd

Contact

For questions about the application process, deadlines, and required materials:
Mr. James Short
Assistant Dean, Undergraduate & Graduate Admissions
Email: jsh...@temple.edu
Phone: 215-204-8598

For questions about the program, curriculum, or faculty, or to arrange a campus visit:
Dr. Adam Vidiksis
Director of Music Technology & Composition
Email: adam.v...@temple.edu

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Dr. Sam Wells (he/him)
Assistant Professor of Instruction, Music Technology & Composition

Temple University
https://sllewm.as | (515) 229-5241