Music Theory, M.M.
The M.M. in Music Theory requires 34 credit hours. Thesis and non-thesis options are offered. At least one half the work credited toward the degree must be in 600-level courses or above. A diagnostic examination is administered prior to the first semester of enrollment. The capstone experience is a required written comprehensive examination in the final semester and a thesis or document.
For information regarding deadlines and requirements for admission, please see the Guide to Graduate Admissions.
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.
Degree Program Requirements
Required: 34 credit hours
| Code | Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Core | ||
| MUS 602 | Seminar in Music Research and Writing | 3 |
| MUS 706 | Seminar in Music History | 3 |
| Performance | ||
| Select 2 credits of PRF-type and/or ENS courses at the 600 level | 2 | |
| Electives | ||
| Select 3 credits. Recommended: * | ||
| MUE 618 | Psychology of Music | 3 |
| or MUE 619 | Acoustics of Music | |
| Select one option from the following: ** | ||
| Thesis Option | ||
| Major Courses: | ||
| MUS 644 | Pedagogy of Music Theory | 3 |
| MUS 660 | Theory and Analysis of Rhythm | 3 |
| MUS 662 | Schenkerian Analysis | 3 |
| MUS 664 | Post-Tonal Theory | 3 |
| MUS 690 | Current and Historical Trends in Music Theory | 3 |
| MUS 707 | Seminar in Musical Analysis | 3 |
| Thesis: | ||
| MUS 699 | Thesis | 5 |
| Non-Thesis Option | ||
| Major Courses: | ||
| MUS 639 | Tonal Counterpoint | 3 |
| or MUS 692 | Advanced Tonal Analysis | |
| MUS 644 | Pedagogy of Music Theory | 3 |
| MUS 660 | Theory and Analysis of Rhythm | 3 |
| MUS 662 | Schenkerian Analysis | 3 |
| MUS 664 | Post-Tonal Theory | 3 |
| MUS 690 | Current and Historical Trends in Music Theory | 3 |
| MUS 707 | Seminar in Musical Analysis | 3 |
| Document: | ||
| MUS 698 | Document in Music Theory | 2 |
| * | Electives should be chosen in consultation with the major advisor. |
| ** | For both the thesis and non-thesis options, a comprehensive examination with both written and oral components is required. The thesis or document is to be presented in a public forum. |