University of Music and Performing Arts Graz·Music Composition and Theory
Bachelor of Arts (BA)
The Bachelor program in Composition and Music Theory at KUG provides a comprehensive education in contemporary musical creation and its aesthetic and societal implications. Students will engage in musical practices alongside theoretical reflections, covering historical styles and musical structures. The program prepares graduates for independent scholarly research and practical music applications, opening doors to various professional pathways.
The program focuses on both composition and music theory, with an emphasis on practical skills in real-world applications. Students will explore a range of topics including musical history, analysis, and performance practices, equipping them with the necessary theoretical and practical foundations.
The curriculum spans six semesters, during which students develop both their technical skills and their artistic voices. The program includes a combination of studio-based learning, group projects, and independent research culminating in a thesis project.
Graduates of this program will have developed a strong competency in both creative composition and rigorous analytical skills, enabling them to engage in sophisticated discussions about music. They will be equipped to create their own works while also critically analyzing the works of others.
Periods can differ for EU/EEA and non-EU applicants. Always confirm on the official site before applying.
Wintersemester
No tuition
EU/EEA students, within the standard study period (plus the ~€25 ÖH student union fee per semester).
€727 / semester
Non-EU / third-country rate. Always confirm on the official site.
€ 25,20 ÖH-Beitrag plus gegebenenfalls anfallende Studiengebühren im Umfang von € 363,36 bzw. € 726,72
Third-country (non-EU/EEA) applicants generally need to have their prior qualifications legalised and translated for the admission application. Exact rules depend on the country that issued each document — always confirm with the university's admissions office.
Program-specific items — a CV, letter of motivation, an entrance exam (e.g. GMAT, GRE, SAT) or a portfolio — vary by degree. Check this program's requirements above and its official page.
The level of legalisation your certificates need depends on your country of origin:
Apostille
If your country is part of the Hague Apostille Convention, an Apostille from the competent authority of the issuing country is sufficient.
No legalisation
A small number of countries have a bilateral agreement with Austria and need no further legalisation.
Full diplomatic legalisation
For all other countries: the full chain — pre-certification by the issuing country's authorities (e.g. Ministry of Education and Ministry of Foreign Affairs), then legalisation by the competent Austrian representation (embassy/consulate).
Translations are usually done after legalisation. Check the required order with the issuing authorities and the Austrian representation.
After admission: proof of sufficient funds, health insurance and the student residence permit are part of the visa process — not university admission. We cover those in the guides.
KUG Graz is a music and performing arts university known for jazz, orchestral studies, and opera, with an international student body.
Visit university site€300–€500 / month (dorm room)
8010 GrazSingle rooms, double rooms
8010 GrazSingle rooms, double rooms, studios, apartments
8047 GrazSingle rooms