University of Music and Performing Arts Graz·Composition and Music Theory
Master of Arts (MA)
The Master's Programme in Composition - Music Theatre at the University of Music and Performing Arts Graz provides an in-depth education in the art of composition, integrating both music theory and practical experiences. Students engage in the creation of contemporary musical works while reflecting on the aesthetic and societal impacts of music. The program's structure allows for a robust exploration of historical styles and musical structures, with a strong emphasis on practical engagements such as performances and collaborative projects. Graduates can expect to pursue careers as composers, educators, and in various roles within the music industry.
In the Master's Programme in Composition - Music Theatre, students explore the creation of contemporary musical pieces, diving into music theory that integrates historical research and artistic practice. The curriculum emphasizes the study of historical styles, musical structures in performance practices, interpretation, and auditory experiences, alongside foundational skills for academic research.
The program spans four semesters, amounting to 120 ECTS credits. It is organized to include theoretical coursework, practical training through performances, and culminates in a thesis or final project that showcases the students' compositional skills and theoretical knowledge.
Graduates gain competencies in composition, music theory, and performance, equipping them with the skills to analyze and create contemporary music. They develop critical thinking and reflective skills, fostering an understanding of the aesthetic and socio-cultural contexts of music.
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