Curriculum

In Steinhardt’s unparalleled facilities, you’ll explore diverse musical traditions and work closely with our faculty of internationally recognized composers. Songwriting students write and develop songs, receive feedback from professional songwriters and faculty, and collaborate with composers and musicians throughout the Department of Music and Performing Arts Professions. Students engage in private lessons with faculty and complete specialized courses in music and liberal arts.

Core Course Sequence

While taking full advantage of NYU’s acclaimed liberal arts core, you’ll work one-on-one with today’s musical innovators, developing your personal artistry while acquiring the skills to succeed after graduation.  

Additional music specialization courses in the area of composition are completed with other undergraduate composition students. Courses in music technology develop your production skills. You'll also take courses in songwriting history and criticism, orchestration, DAWs, narrative songwriting, and vocal production. Additional courses in industry-standard music technology are provided.

You'll also take part in the Songwriters Forum, a seminar focused on honing the art and craft of writing popular music. Additionally, you'll receive personalized, one-on-one lessons from our exceptional faculty members.

Sample Elective Courses

Students can take a variety of classes throughout the Department of Music and Performing Arts Professions, collaborating with the programs in Music Business, Music Technology, Screen Scoring and Songwriting, and Instrumental and Vocal Performance, and may include MPAMB-UE 1320 Music Business Internship for 1-6 credits. 

Culminating Experience 

Students complete an undergraduate capstone course and project, working with a faculty mentor to coordinate and develop all aspects of the concert experience, including production, marketing, and programming. The realization of their composition culminates in a final public performance.