Music Theory
MusM in Music Theory
Candidates for the MusM may concentrate in composition, conducting, historical performance, music education, music theory, musicology, or performance.
Applying
Applicants must apply online at www.bu.edu/cfa. Two recommendations, normally from teachers, official transcripts from all colleges attended, a two-page statement of purpose explaining why the candidate is applying and his/her career goals, and a non-refundable application fee are required of all applicants. Performance programs require a complete repertory list; some departments have additional requirements. Check online for the full list of departmental application requirements. Please note: performance applicants must audition in person if residing within 300 miles of Boston.
Admission Requirements
All applicants must have: (1) a bachelor’s degree from a school or college with a major in the subject in which the degree is sought, or with credits equivalent to the corresponding curriculum at Boston University, and (2) demonstrated talent and ability in performance, scholarship, or composition sufficient to promise superior accomplishment at the graduate level.
Applicants must submit two analytical papers to the Graduate Admissions office at the time of application, and may also include examples of original compositions. A performance audition is not required for admission to the MusM program in music theory.
Program of Study
| Advanced Tonal Analysis | 3 cr |
| Advanced Contemporary Analysis | 3 cr |
| Schenkerian Analysis I | 3 cr |
| History of Music Theory II | 3 cr |
| Composition | 2 cr |
| Musicology | 3 cr |
| Thesis | 2 cr |
| Approved electives in music theory, composition, musicology, or related fields (may include Applied Music Level 7a and 7b or ensemble participation) |
13 cr |
| Total 32 cr |
Terminal Projects
Each student must write a thesis demonstrating his or her ability to accomplish significant research in the field of music theory.
General Degree Requirements
The MusM is granted upon successful completion of a program of study and terminal projects appropriate to the student’s field of specialization. Students must complete a minimum of 32 semester credits with grades no lower than B– in graduate-level coursework. All degree requirements must be completed within five years from the date of matriculation. Students may also be required to take prerequisite courses based on the result of the required proficiency examination.
Master of Music Comprehensive Reviews
A satisfactory comprehensive review or examination is required for graduation. The faculty in each major area determines standards for this review and its format, and conducts the evaluation. In each case, the comprehensive review concentrates on the major area and other related fields. Unsatisfactory performance on this review may require remedial work and/or a repetition of the review after counseling with the student’s advisor. Descriptions of the departmental comprehensive reviews or examinations are found in the School of Music Graduate Handbook, available to enrolled students on the School of Music website.
