The composition area at California State University, Fullerton’s Department of Music is guided by a faculty with diverse and extensive artistic and pedagogical experience. Two years of private, one on one, studio instruction by our composition faculty and a recital project distinguishes our program. Classes focus on traditional and contemporary aspects of the technique and craft of composition. Strong instrumental studios ensure support for a wide range of performance opportunities available to composers in the program, including a "Composers Forum" concert series, which focuses exclusively on works by student composers. In addition, a wide range of visiting composers and performers help foster a lively and serious discourse, complementing the curricular offerings of the area.

An experienced faculty offering various, unique perspectives in the disciplines of music theory and composition guides the music theory area. The curriculum focuses on the comprehensive development of strong skills in music theory and musicianship, counterpoint, techniques of contemporary music, and form and analysis. Advanced courses are offered in special music theory topics, advanced form and analysis, and advanced techniques of contemporary music. Independent study projects offered in such diverse areas as advanced orchestration, film music, text and music, women in music, and advanced music technology help foster an environment of active research and inquiry.

The Bachelor of Music in Composition and the Bachelor of Arts in Music Theory-History and Master of Music in Music Theory-Composition provide excellent preparation for advanced degrees in composition, theory, literature or musicology.

Our program has been very successful in the placement of our graduates in high-quality graduate and doctoral programs on a national level.