Designed for students who wish to balance theoretical and applied approaches to the study of music. Elected courses range from developing musical craft (such as analysis, counterpoint, improvisation, and music composition) to aesthetics, music cognition, and music technology.

Curriculum

The Bachelor of Music in Music Theory requires a minimum of 120 credits: coursework is 75% within SMTD and 25% within the liberal arts. SMTD coursework to include:

• Music Theory
• Musicology
• Ensemble participation
• Piano
• Composition

Degree requirements and term-by-term layout for current students.

Audition Dates

How To Apply

The Bachelor of Music in Music Theory does not accept incoming first-year student applications. All applicants must be transfer students from U-M or from other institutions with a minimum of one full year of music theory coursework with grades no less than a “B. U-M applicants must complete Music Theory courses 139, 140, 149, and 150 before applying. All applicants should have background in performance or composition and in a keyboard instrument.

To apply:

• Submit the Common Application or Coalition Application on or before December 1. Current U-M students should complete the cross-campus transfer application rather than the Common Application or Coalition Application. Current U-M SMTD students should complete only the Artistic Profile.
• Submit an SMTD Artistic Profile on or before December 1 

Click the button below to read more detailed information about the application requirements and procedures.

Please send inquiries regarding the SMTD application process to SMTD.admissions@umich.edu. To learn more about SMTD, sign up for an Information Session.