Computer Science and Music

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What is Computer Science and Music?

This major is for students interested in pursuing a career in music technology, music composition, or audio technology. Your degree will prepare you for the changing music production industry. You’ll take courses in music theory, musicianship, computer science, math, and more. This major will prepare you to challenge the status quo in music composition and explore new avenues of expression. You must submit a portfolio and pass an interview before being accepted into this program.

Career Options

Arrangement
Arts administration
Equipment technology
Composition
Conducting
Instrument services
Music editing
Music engineering & mixing
Music performance
Music promotion
Music publishing
Music recording
Research
Teaching

Post-Graduation Success¹

93% employed or continuing education

31% employed after graduation

62% attending graduate school

$52,800 average starting annual income

Sample employer destinations: The Naperville Winds (2), Urbana High School (1), Urbana School District 116 (1) View All

Sample grad school destinations: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Carnegie Mellon University, Boston Conservatory at Berklee View All

Program Resources

College of Fine & Applied Arts Program Webpage Degree Requirements

Review Criteria

First-Year Major-Specific Criteria

Calculus preferred (if available at high school)
Strong talent review (audition or portfolio)
Interest in Music in addition to Computer Science

View All Review Criteria

Transfer Criteria

Transfer Handbook

Graduation & Retention²

4.4 years to degree

91% first-year retention rate

45% four-year graduation rate

85% six-year graduation rate

Annual Program Costs³

Illinois Resident

Tuition: $18,740
Fees: $5,182
Expenses: $19,558
Total: $43,480

Non-Resident

Tuition: $44,340
Fees: $5,182
Expenses:$19,898
Total: $69,420

International

Tuition: $47,800
Fees: $5,182
Expenses: $19,898
Total: $72,880

Related Majors

Computer Science - ENG

Music - FAA

Music Composition - FAA

Sound Design and Technology - FAA

¹ Post-graduate data was collected through the Illini Success initiative, which primarily relies on self-reported survey data sources. Statistics are aggregated from the past three years. Please note that total compensation may be greater than annual salary as other forms of compensation (e.g., signing bonus, commission, benefits) are not included. For more information on Illini Success data and methods, please visit the Illini Success website. For average wage or salary information five years after entry into an occupation, visit the Post-Secondary Employment Outcomes Explorer.

² Graduation and retention data comes from several majors within a similar interest area. Data may not yet be available for newly created programs. Years-to-degree data is only available for programs from which you can earn a degree. Retention and graduation rates are only available for programs that you can apply directly into. Retention rates reflect retention to the university, not necessarily retention within the major.

³ "Expenses" are estimated and include books, supplies, housing, and other living expenses. The exact amount you’ll pay depends on where you decide to live, the meal plan you choose, and your overall lifestyle. To learn more about costs, please visit the Office of Student Financial Aid website. To learn the average monthly student loan payment over a period of 20 years based on estimated cost, visit the Illinois College2Career website.