Graduate Certificate in Music Theory

The Graduate Certificate in Music Theory provides a curricular framework for advanced studies in music theory along with formal acknowledgement of these studies. Students applying for the certificate should have an interest in music theory and theory pedagogy, facility with common analytical techniques and an ability to learn advanced concepts. MM, DMA and PhD graduates with theory certificates will have an advantage for positions that include theory and aural skills teaching.Ìý

Curriculum

The curriculum consists of the 11-12 credit hours below. All MM and DMA degree programs currently require at least three credit hours in music theory. Students pursuing this graduate certificate would typically enroll in an additional 5-9 credit hours. For current students, courses taken before applying for the certificate will be counted.

  • 3 credits. Music Theory Pedagogy (MUSC 6051)
  • 5–6 credits. Two of the following:
    • Trends in Music Theory (MUSC 5151/6801)
    • Post-tonal Theory + Analysis (MUSC 5071)
    • An elective from Topics in Music Analysis (MUSC 5151) for MM students, or Advanced Topics in Music Theory (MUSC 6801) for DMA and PhD students.
    • Theory at the Keyboard (TMUS 5544)
  • 3 credits. Research Project (TMUS 6958), resulting in a paper and public presentation of research.

Research project

The research paper will be approximately 7500 words (word count does not include musical examples, figures, or bibliography). The paper may build upon course papers, but should go substantially beyond them.

If the research project takes the form of a lecture-recital (with a significant performance component), the paper will be 4500-6000 words (not including musical examples, figures, or bibliography). Students should plan for 3-5 rounds of revisions on the paper. The public presentation will be 20-30 min. in length; 40 min. if it is a lecture-recital.

Admissions requirements

The program is only available to enrolled MM, DMA, and PhD students in the College of Music. Students may apply for the program with their application to the College or once they are already enrolled.Ìý

The application will consist of:

  1. Statement of Purpose

  2. Academic transcript(s)

  3. Two scholarly writing samples.Ìý

Academic performance in graduate courses at CU ¶¶Òõ´«Ã½ÔÚÏß will also be taken into account for students who are already enrolled.

To begin the application for the Certificate in Music Theory, please complete theÌýMusic Theory Certificate application. The chair of music theory will communicate with you once your application has been considered.

Questions? Contact Senior Graduate Studies Coordinator Chris Martin, christopher.t.martin@colorado.edu.