Music Theory: MA
Program Information
PROGRAM NAME
Music Theory
PROGRAM LEVEL
Master of Arts (MA)
COLLEGE/SCHOOL AFFILIATION
School of Music and Dance
PROGRAM WEBSITE
ADMISSIONS INFORMATION
FINAL DEADLINE
Fall Term: December 10
MEDIAN TIME TO DEGREE
1.7 years
CAMPUS
Eugene
Program Description
The master of arts degree enables students to gain advanced knowledge and skills in music theory, as well as in closely related areas. Graduate courses and seminars provide extensive exposure to problems in analysis and the history of music theory.
Many master’s students learn to be teachers through the Graduate Teaching Fellow program, and students also have the opportunity to gain experience in presenting at regional conferences.
A thesis in music theory is required for the degree and is carried out under the guidance of a faculty advisor and two other readers, who work closely with the student.
Master’s students from the program have been accepted into a number of the top PhD programs around the world including the Oregon program.
Application at a Glance
You apply for admission through your program. Detailed instructions are available on the program’s website.
UO Application Requirements
- Official Transcripts
- English Language Proficiency Requirement for International Applicants
- Financial Verification for International Applicants
Program-Specific Application Requirements
Required
- Interview with the music theory faculty
- Letters of Recommendation
- Portfolio
- Preliminary Written Exam for the Music Theory GE
- Resume
- Statement of Purpose
- Writing Sample
Optional
- Recent concert or recital programs
Not Required
- GMAT or GRE
Music Theory: PhD
Program Information
PROGRAM NAME
Music Theory
PROGRAM LEVEL
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
COLLEGE/SCHOOL AFFILIATION
School of Music and Dance
PROGRAM WEBSITE
ADMISSIONS INFORMATION
FINAL DEADLINE
Fall Term: December 10
MEDIAN TIME TO DEGREE
6.7 years
CAMPUS
Eugene
Program Description
The music theory PhD program emphasizes both intellectual and practical skills while enabling students to become as broadly knowledgeable in the field as possible. Included in the course of study are classes in, among other subjects:
- Advanced analysis (including Schenkerian, post-tonal and Neo-Riemannian analysis)
- Advanced aural skills
- Keyboard techniques
- Pedagogy
- Composition
- History of theory
- College music teaching
- World music
- Electronic/computer music
Each student experiences a great deal of personal attention from the faculty, and many students gain teaching experience through participation in our Graduate Teaching Fellow program.
There is an especially supportive relationship between the student and his or her major advisor, and with members of the student's doctoral committee.
The PhD program culminates in a public presentation of the candidate’s research, as well as a dissertation.
Application at a Glance
You apply for admission through your program. Detailed instructions are available on the program’s website.
UO Application Requirements
- Official Transcripts
- English Language Proficiency Requirement for International Applicants
- Financial Verification for International Applicants
Program-Specific Application Requirements
Required
- Higher TOEFL/IELTS than UO minimums
- Interview with the music theory faculty
- Letters of Recommendation
- Portfolio
- Preliminary Written Exam for the Music Theory GE
- Resume
- Statement of Purpose
- Writing Samples (2)
Not Required
- GMAT or GRE