Overview

The Music Theory programme at the University of Missouri - Kansas City offers a deep academic exploration into the mechanics and structures of musical composition. Students develop advanced skills in research, analysis, and communication to prepare for professional roles in the global music community.

This degree provides a robust foundation in musicianship, requiring students to demonstrate proficiency in part-writing, aural skills, and functional piano facility. The curriculum is designed to foster original research, allowing undergraduates to create self-driven analytical works. Participants benefit from a structured learning environment that balances theoretical study with practical performance requirements.

Why Music Theory at the University of Missouri - Kansas City?

The Conservatory provides a distinguished environment for musical study, featuring specialised facilities and a faculty dedicated to academic excellence. Students gain access to a vibrant performing arts community that encourages interdisciplinary collaboration and professional growth. The institution is recognised for its commitment to developing well-rounded musicians through a blend of traditional and contemporary teaching methods.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 1124 per credit
National fee: USD 1124 per credit
Local fee: USD 463 per credit

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

Syllabus

Modules may include:

Styles and Genres in Music
Methods in Musicology
Instrumentation
Analysis
Tonal Counterpoint
Post-Tonal Theory
Pedagogy of Music Theory
Research Problems
Advanced Seminar in Musicology
Advanced Seminar in Music Theory

Students also complete ensemble requirements and applied lessons in their primary instrument. Language study is a core component of the curriculum to support international research. Options for language modules include:

Elementary French I
Elementary French II
Elementary German I
Elementary German II
Elementary Italian I
Elementary Italian II

Careers with Music Theory

Graduates are equipped for diverse professional paths within the music industry and academia. Many pursue advanced postgraduate studies to become university professors, researchers, or professional theorists. The analytical and communication skills gained also support careers in music publishing, editing, and arts administration.

The programme prepares individuals for roles that require a sophisticated understanding of musical architecture. Employment opportunities exist in cultural organisations, media companies, and educational institutions. Graduates often find success in positions involving music criticism, library science, or archival work within the performing arts sector.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Musicianship

Keyboard Skills

History of Music in Western Civilization

Orchestra

Improvisational Music

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-21 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-11-15 00:00:00
Starting 2027-08-25 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-06-15 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

5.5

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

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Kansas City, United States

Disciplines

History Music Musicology View 2682 other Bachelors in Music in United States

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

Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

5.5

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

Academic Records

English Proficiency

Personal Statement

Passport

Statement of Finances

Affidavit of Support

Supplemental Materials

Immigration Documents

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

33720 USD / year

≈ 33720 USD / year
Out-of-State

33720 USD / year

≈ 33720 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

13890 USD / year

≈ 13890 USD / year

Living costs

Kansas City

United States

980 - 1596 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

Kansas City

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

Our partners