Overview

The Music Theory bachelor degree at Portland State University provides students with a scholarly and creative pathway to explore the intricate mechanics of harmony, melody, and rhythm. This programme is designed for those seeking a deep understanding of musical form within a vibrant and supportive academic environment.

Students enrolled in this course benefit from a curriculum that balances advanced theoretical coursework with practical musical application. The programme includes individualized applied lessons in performance and active participation in various ensembles. This multifaceted approach ensures that graduates possess both technical expertise and expressive performance skills.

A significant component of the degree involves direct mentorship from expert faculty members.

Why Music Theory at Portland State University?

Portland State University is recognised as a national College of Distinction, reflecting its commitment to student success and academic excellence. The School of Music & Theater holds the prestigious All-Steinway School designation, providing students with access to world-class instruments and facilities.

The music programmes are fully accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM), ensuring that the education meets high professional standards. Students gain practical experience in scholarly writing, arranging, and musical analysis, all while exploring their individual interests in a creative and flexible setting.

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 focuses on building a strong musical foundation through core theoretical subjects and performance. Modules may include:

Music Theory
Harmony
Melody
Rhythm
Form
Applied Lessons
Ensemble Participation
Music Analysis

Careers with Music Theory

Graduates of the Music Theory programme are well-equipped for a variety of professional paths within the music industry and beyond. The degree develops critical thinking and expressive skills that are highly transferable to numerous music-related occupations and administrative roles.

Many alumni choose to pursue further academic excellence through graduate study in musicology or theory. Professional opportunities for graduates include roles in music arranging, music criticism, and publishing. Additionally, former students have successfully established careers in arts administration and various creative sectors of the music industry.

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

Duolingo English Test

110

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Credits

180 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Portland, United States

Disciplines

Music Musicology View 2691 other Bachelors in Music in United States

Join for free or log in to access our complete career info list.

Academic requirements

GPA

2.5

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

110

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
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

Need help with your student visa?

Get Visa Support

Get personalized guidance from a certified VFS Global advisor and save 20% through Studyportals.

Avoid common visa mistakes and delays
Know exactly what documents you need
Get a clear checklist tailored to your situation

In order for us to give you accurate scholarship information, we ask that you please confirm a few details and create an account with us.

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

Our partners