The M.M. in Music Theory provides students with a strong foundation in the discipline of music theory and develops research, writing, and analytical skills. Students may choose from among three tracks: thesis, document, and comprehensive exam. The degree provides excellent preparation for Ph.D. programs in the field.

Additional policies and regulations are found in the Graduate Music Handbook located in the Advising section of the School of Music Operations page: https://vpa.uncg.edu/music/operations/#advising.

For information regarding deadlines and requirements for admission, please see https://grs.uncg.edu/programs/.

In addition to the application materials required by the Graduate School, applicants must provide:

• A statement of intent that outlines their background, interest in music theory, and career goals.
• A scholarly paper on music, preferably one with an analytical focus.
• Applicants whose materials pass an initial screening by the music theory faculty will be invited for an interview that tests sight-reading, dictation, analysis, and keyboard skills. A diagnostic written exam is administered prior to the interview.

Information about applying to the School of Music is available at https://vpa.uncg.edu/music/apply/.

Degree Program Requirements

Required: 32 credit hours

Course List

Code	Title	Credit Hours
Core Courses (6 credits)
MUS 602	Seminar in Music Research and Writing	3
MUS 706	Seminar in Musicology and Ethnomusicology	3
Major Courses (15 credits)
MUS 644	Pedagogy of Music Theory	3
MUS 660	Rhythm and Meter	3
MUS 664	Theory and Analysis of Western European Post-Tonal Music and Related Traditions	3
MUS 690	Current and Historical Trends in Music Theory	3
Select one course (3 credits) from the following:		3
MUS 639	Tonal Counterpoint
MUS 662	Schenkerian Analysis
MUS 692	Advanced Analysis of Western European Tonal Music and Related Traditions
Performance (2 credits)
Select 2 credits from 600-level PRF-type and/or ENS courses		2
Electives (3 credits)
Select 3 credits of electives 1		3
Capstone Experience (6 credits)
Select one option (6 credits) from the following:		6
Thesis Option
MUS 699	Thesis (6 credits) 2
Document Option
MUS 698	Document in Music Theory (3 credits) 2
Select 3 credits of electives 3
Comprehensive Exam Option 4
MUS 707	Seminar in Musical Analysis (3 credits)
Select 3 credits of electives 3
Total Credit Hours		32

¹

The electives for this requirement should be selected from outside the major area and in consultation with the major advisor.

²

The thesis or document must be presented in a public forum.

³

Electives should be selected in consultation with the major advisor.

⁴

Students should consult the Music Theory area head and the Music Graduate Student Service Specialist for details about the comprehensive exam.

Portfolio in Music Theory

In addition to the required course work, all students must complete a portfolio of select samples of written work, generally final papers or projects, from at least three of their required music theory courses as part of the Capstone Experience. The portfolio must also include a table of contents and an abstract and description of context for each of the selected samples. Students are expected to consult faculty in assembling their portfolio. Students who select the Comprehensive Exam Option for their Capstone Experience must present the portfolio in a public forum.