Overview

The Music Theory programme at the University of Michigan provides students with a rigorous academic environment dedicated to the analytical study of musical structures. This curriculum is designed to foster a deep understanding of how music functions across various historical periods and cultural contexts. Students engage with complex theoretical frameworks while developing practical skills in ear training and keyboard harmony.

Why Music Theory at the University of Michigan?

Choosing this department means joining one of the most prestigious academic communities in the United States. The institution is renowned for its world-class faculty who are leaders in research areas such as Schenkerian analysis, contemporary rhythmic theory, and the history of music theory. Students benefit from the extensive resources of a major research university while enjoying the specialised attention of a dedicated music school.

The environment encourages interdisciplinary collaboration, allowing theorists to work closely with performers and composers. This integration ensures that theoretical study remains grounded in practical musical experience. Furthermore, the facility provides access to one of the largest music libraries in the country, supporting advanced undergraduate research and creative projects.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 63962 per year
National fee: USD 63962 per year
Local fee: USD 18346 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum is structured to move from foundational principles to advanced analytical techniques. Modules may include:

Tonal Harmony
Aural Skills
Keyboard Skills
Counterpoint
Analysis of 20th-Century Music
Orchestration
Music Theory Composition
History of Music Theory

Careers with Music Theory

Graduates from this programme are well-prepared for a variety of professional paths within the arts and academia. Many alumni pursue advanced graduate studies to become university professors or professional researchers. The analytical and critical thinking skills developed during the course are also highly valued in fields such as music publishing, editing, and arts administration.

Additionally, the technical training provided supports careers in music technology, software development for music education, and professional composition. The reputation of the institution ensures that graduates are competitive candidates for roles in prestigious cultural organisations and media companies globally.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Musicology

Music Theory

Performance

Conducting

Instruments
Vocal Coaching

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-31 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-01 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

130

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TOEFL^® IBT

100

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IELTS

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Ann Arbor, United States

Disciplines

Music Musicology Music Performance View 379 other Bachelors in Musicology in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

130

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

100

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

Completed Common Application or Coalition Application with $75 application fee* payment (Please note that both application options include specific University of Michigan questions, and there is no advantage to submitting one over the other.)
High school transcript (additional requirements by country)
School Report (Common App) or Counselor Recommendation (Coalition App)*
One Teacher Evaluation (academic teacher)
SAT or ACT score
TOEFL, MELAB, or IELTS scores (for non-native speakers of English)
Official college transcripts (for high school students dual enrolled in a college or university; additional requirements by country)

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

63962 USD / year

≈ 63962 USD / year
Out-of-State

63962 USD / year

≈ 63962 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

18346 USD / year

≈ 18346 USD / year

Living costs

Ann Arbor

United States

1025 - 1870 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

Ann Arbor

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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