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.
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

Karen Fournier

Marc Hannaford

Patrick Harlin

Áine Heneghan

John Knoedler

Kevin E. Korsyn

Nathan Martin

Nancy Murphy

Wayne C. Petty

Marie-Ève Piché

René Rusch

David Sears

Joshua Tanis

Aleksandra Vojčić
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.







