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.
