For Prospective Students

Learn more by selecting a category below, including information about applying to our graduate programs and a list of frequently asked questions. Want to talk further and learn even more about MSU Music Theory?

Master's Degree in Music Theory

The Master's degree in Music Theory offers outstanding scholarly training in the analytical approaches, skills, and research methods of music theory.

Graduate Certificate in Music Theory

The primary clientele for the music theory certificate consists of graduate music majors pursuing a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in performance, conducting, or composition and wishing to secure a secondary credential in music theory.

Student Accomplishments

MSU music theory students accomplish a lot, in many cases building as Master's students research profiles that look more like those of seasoned doctoral students.

Funding Opportunities

We offer several types of funding to support graduate students financially while also providing valuable teaching experience both within and outside the classroom.

Guest Scholars

The MSU Music Theory Area has a vibrant guest-scholars program. Seven renowned theorists visit us each year to present their research, guest-teach our classes, and mentor our students.

Mentoring

Members of the theory faculty prioritize being accessible to students throughout their time at MSU, advising them both formally and informally on research, teaching, and professional development.

Course Descriptions

The graduate curriculum in music theory offers students room to customize their professional paths.

How to Apply

We want to learn as much we can about every applicant.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions regarding the application process or our theory program.

Alumni

Whether aiming for admission to a music theory doctoral program or adding music theory to a different expertise to improve your higher education teaching prospects, our students leave the MSU Music Theory program well-prepared.

Alumni Placements

"What I truly loved about MSU was the amount of support and mentoring I received from the faculty. The professors were always willing to meet with me and give me valuable advice regarding my teaching and research."

Hanisha Kulothparan '21, Now a PH. D. Student at The Eastman School of Music

"MSU Music Theory changed my life. Here, I came to better understand my strengths and weaknesses. The professors treated me as an equal and challenged me to become the best version of myself."

Molly Murdock '16 (MM Music Theory), Now a PH. D. Student in Music Theory at The Eastman School of Music