Checklist: Music Composition for the Screen

When applying to Music Composition for the Screen as a domestic student (if you are an international student, please refer to the bottom of the page) you will need to submit the following:

• $55 application fee: You may send a check or money order to the graduate office or complete the online payment form
  If you choose to use the online payment form, please select "Grad Application Fee" and also be sure to include your social security number (if applicable).  If possible, you should forward the payment confirmation to the Graduate Office (gradsch@colum.edu).  To pay by credit card over the phone, please call 312-369-7260.  If you pay by check, money order, or with a credit card over the phone, please note that your payment will take longer to process.
• Completed domestic application
  
• Self-Assessment essay: Within your self-assessment essay, describe your qualifications, what you expect to gain from Columbia's Music Composition for the Screen program and your career goals.  Please be specific.
  
• Two letters of recommendation
• Resume
• Two copies of all transcripts from any and all colleges/universities attended
• Work sample: Applicants must submit a CD or tape with 15-minutes of their own original music, composed within the last 3 years.  The emphasis should be on dramatic and/or orchestral music (MIDI acceptable).  Please include an 8 1/2 by 11 inch hand-written or computer-generated score for each recording on the CD/tape.  The Graduate Office will return your non-written work sample to you after a decision has been made on your case provided you include an appropriately sized, self-addresses envelope with proper postage and check the appropriate box on the actual graduate application form.

Please remember:  For those who reach the final stage of the admissions process, an interview will be required.  The department will contact those selected for the interview directly.  During the interview, the student will meet with the program director to critique the submitted work samples.  Selected applicants will also be asked to demonstrate proficiency on at least one musical instrument, plus a working familiarity with the piano keyboard, at this time.

Students  entering the program should have composition experience and training.  And academic background in music (theory, performance, composition) is preferred.  If necessary, admitted students may be asked to complete pre-requisite coursework either before beginning the program or concurrently during their first semester.  Students should also have proficiency on at least one musical instrument plus a working familiarity with the piano keyboard.

If you are an international student you will need to submit all the above materials as well as the additional International Application Materials.