Bachelor of Music in Music Theory

Application Deadline for Fall 2026 - December 1, 2025

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.

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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

Silent Advisor

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

Faculty


Matt Albert

Chair of Chamber Music and Music Theory; Professor of Music

Nancy Murphy

Associate Professor of Music; Director of the Program in Music Studies
Music Theory

David Sears

Associate Professor of Music; Faculty Associate, Department of Psychology
Music Theory

Performance Opportunities

There is a vibrant culture of collaboration between performers and composers at SMTD. Student composers receive premieres of their works at a variety of venues, including 5-6 Student Composer Concerts per year, and concerts by U-M ensembles. Competitions for new choral music and instrumental works are featured each year. Our performance studios actively commission new works for their degree recitals, and the Chamber Music department offers an annual award for the best performance of an SMTD composer’s work. Composition students also regularly collaborate with filmmakers, dancer/choreographers, and are actively involved in directing music for stage productions, a cappella groups, and musical theatre performers. Each term, the William Bolcom Residency in Composition hosts renowned guest artists who come to campus to interact with students and faculty through lessons, workshops, meals, lectures, and performances. Funding for student performance projects is available from SMTD's EXCEL grant programs, as well as through the Rackham Graduate School for MA and DMA students.

New Music Concerts

New Music Concerts

Student composers often take the spotlight with their compositions performed at the annual New Music Concerts by the University Orchestras.

Questions?