I've been pondering this for awhile now and I was curious what your take is on the subject of majoring in composition? What kind of rigors are involved? What kind of professions are available once a degree has been attained?

Thanks.

The course requirements are very similar as they would be for a theory degree, including orchestration and conducting. As for composition lessons, you can expect a variety of approaches. Most teachers will have you do various exercises (exploring different styles and instrumental combinations.) You can also expect to study electronic music (sound design, sound engineering, sequencing, etc...)

You'll also be required to have lessons in a secondary area; I would assume piano in your case.

After graduation, you pretty much make it on your own in whatever way you can.

Here's someone I went to school with:

http://www.schirmer.com/Default.aspx?TabId=2419&State_2872=2&composerId_2872=2388

Here's another composer who works with my publisher:

http://www.timothybrownmusic.com/

Here's a distinguished graduate of Texas Tech (where I used to work):

http://www.kneuppermusic.com/

Here's someone else I went to school with:

http://www.myspace.com/armandobayolo

Probably the most famous composition major is:

http://www.reginaspektor.com/

So...lots of things out there, but few of them are obvious or easily attainable.