Program Overview

A graduate certificate in music theory pedagogy prepares post-baccalaureate performers, educators, theorists, historians, composers, and other musicians to teach music theory in a variety of educational settings. These credentials certify that students have acquired professional skills necessary to teach music theory , making them more competitive on the job market. Non-matriculating students will usually complete a certificate within one academic year (two semesters). Matriculating master's students will usually distribute a certificate's four required courses (12 credits) evenly over two years of study, taking one course per semester.

  • Prerequisite: Pass all sections of the Graduate Theory Diagnostic Exam before beginning coursework.
  • GPA requirement: Earn a grade of B (3.0) or higher in each course used toward a certificate.
  • One pedagogy course: Music 615 Pedagogy of Theory
  • Two core courses (6 credits) from among the following:
    • MUSIC 691A: Analysis of Music since 1945
    • MUSIC 691C: Analysis of Counterpoint
    • MUSIC 691F: Musical Forms
    • MUSIC 691G: Jazz Styles and Analysis
    • MUSIC 691K: Post-Tonal Theory
    • MUSIC 691M: Motivic Analysis
    • MUSIC 691O: Analysis of Opera
    • MUSIC 691P: Analysis for Performance
    • MUSIC 691R: Analysis of Rhythm and Meter
    • MUSIC 691S: Schenkerian Analysis
    • Other 600-level theory courses as approved by the Graduate Program Director
  • One teaching course: Music 795 Teaching Practicum