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Bachelor of Music / Master of Music
Screen Scoring
Dual Degree

Only current NYU Screen Scoring undergraduates can apply to the dual degree. 

Earn your Bachelor of Music and Master of Music in Screen Scoring in just five years. Apply to the dual degree program starting in your sophomore year, then start coursework that counts toward your master's degree during your junior year. You'll work closely with our faculty of internationally recognized media composers and industry professionals as you prepare for a career in screen scoring.

NYU Steinhardt screen scoring performs on stage before live audience

Degree Details

Official Degree Title

Bachelor of Music and Master of Music in Music Theory and Composition: Screen Scoring

Format
Full-time
Credits
146
Start Date
Fall
Application Deadline

During your studies, you will:

  • Master the technology required to work in the field of screen scoring (DAWs, sample libraries, synthesizers, game middleware) as you learn the aesthetics and techniques vital for creating music for the screen (film, documentaries, video games, TV and streaming, advertisement).
  • Receive robust training in music theory and core classes, including theories for screen music, exploring the application of harmonic and melodic principles through a narrative lens.
  • Become proficient in instrumentation and orchestration, taking at least four courses in the area. Practice your skills with guest performers, orchestral ensembles, and recording sessions that serve as laboratories for current industry practices.
  • Take private composition lessons with well-respected film composers and industry professionals every semester. 
  • Participate in multiple performances and collaborations with New York University musicians and ensembles, featuring your live music set to the screen.
  • Learn how to record and professionally produce top-quality demos with performing musicians through hybrid recording sessions designed to help you develop the versatile and skillful professional the industry now demands. 
  • Take more than 20 credits of electives to develop other areas of specialization, or to delve deeper into scoring.

In our program, we believe mentorship is one of the most efficient ways to help you develop your creative voice, skills, and professionalism. We believe in individualized attention to help you forge your unique academic path. This is why you will:

  • Meet with an advisor to help you with your academic decisions and guide you through your studies and professional career. Work with them to define your specific career path and areas of interest.
  • Have a very dedicated faculty and staff ready to assist you whenever needed. You will be mentored in the recording studio, and receive guidance when preparing portfolios, reels, and pitching as you learn how to network and collaborate. You will put these skills into practice as you meet and collaborate with students from New York’s top film and media programs.
  • Have a private lesson every week with a dedicated industry mentor and professional media composer each semester of your studies.
  • Have the opportunity to receive weekly feedback on your work from renowned composers, songwriters, publishers, and industry executives in New York City and beyond through our Composers’ Forum Fridays@1 Masterclass Series
  • Take advantage of internships with industry composers, professionals, and companies in New York and Los Angeles that will help you develop your professional skills and expand your career network beyond NYU.

In addition to your classes, our program will provide you with a wide range of opportunities and performances  aimed to help you develop and connect you with the professional world: 

Our Composers Collective, a student-led organization, presents multiple concerts and informal events every semester designed to help you further connect with your peers and experience an entrepreneurial approach to concert planning.