Overview

The Music Theory programme at Portland State University provides students with a rigorous academic foundation focused on the internal mechanics of melody, rhythm, and form. This degree is designed for those who wish to pursue a scholarly path within a vibrant and creative musical environment. Students benefit from a curriculum that balances technical analysis with practical performance opportunities.

Why Music Theory at Portland State University?

Portland State University is recognised as a national College of Distinction, reflecting a deep commitment to student success and academic excellence. The School of Music & Theater holds the prestigious All-Steinway School designation, ensuring students work with world-class instruments. The programme is fully accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music.

Students gain significant real-world experience in scholarly writing, arranging, and musical analysis. The environment encourages individuality, allowing undergraduates to explore specific interests under the direct mentorship of expert faculty. You will also have the unique opportunity to study alongside composition majors, fostering a collaborative atmosphere.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 34599 per year
National fee: USD 34599 per year
Local fee: USD 12999 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum provides a strong music foundation with an emphasis on advanced theoretical coursework and creative projects. Modules may include:

Music Theory
Harmony
Melody
Rhythm
Form
Applied Lessons in Performance
Ensemble Participation
Analytical Project

Careers with Music Theory

Graduates of this programme are well-prepared for the rigours of postgraduate study or immediate entry into the professional music industry. The broad skill set acquired during the course, including critical thinking and expressive communication, is highly transferable to various music-related sectors. Many alumni find success in specialised roles that require deep technical knowledge of music.

Common career paths for graduates include music arranging, publishing, and music criticism. Others pursue opportunities in arts administration or creative roles within the wider music industry. The flexible nature of the degree allows students to forge diverse paths in both commercial and academic settings.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Music Theory

Sight-Singing/Ear Training

Music History: Medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque

Form & Analysis

Orchestration

Counterpoint

Music of Asia

Analytical Techniques

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-09-30 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-09-01 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-08-01 00:00:00 , National
Starting 2027-01-06 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-05 00:00:00
Starting 2027-03-31 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-03-05 00:00:00

Language

English

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Credits

180 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Portland, United States

Disciplines

Music Musicology View 379 other Bachelors in Musicology in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

2.5

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

110

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

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PTE Academic

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IELTS

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98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

You must have a cumulative (overall) grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.5 when converted to the U.S. 4.0 grading scale.
Meet the English Language Proficiency Requirement. You may be admitted to Portland State University and an Intensive English Language Program (IELP) pathway if you do not meet PSU's English Language Proficiency Requirement. Learn more about PSU’s English language programs.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

34599 USD / year

≈ 34599 USD / year
Out-of-State

34599 USD / year

≈ 34599 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

12999 USD / year

≈ 12999 USD / year

Living costs

Portland

United States

1271 - 2262 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Music Theory.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Portland

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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