MA in Music Theory

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Excellence meets innovation

The MA in Music Theory at the University at Buffalo offers a challenging and well-rounded education through rigorous coursework, innovative research opportunities, and personalized mentorship. This program prepares students for academic, professional, and creative success in the field of music theory.

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Program highlights

  • Comprehensive Curriculum: Deepen your understanding with a balanced mix of core courses and electives in both music history and theory.
  • Capstone Projects: Prepare for academic or professional advancement with a comprehensive exam and a portfolio of revised seminar papers.
  • Exclusive Access: Connect with world-class guest scholars, composers and performers at our prestigious Baird Lecture Series.
  • Interdisciplinary Learning: Collaborate and gain new perspectives through our semester-long Masters Colloquium.

Why choose the MA in Music Theory at UB?

  • Faculty Excellence: Learn from distinguished scholars and musicians who combine traditional and innovative approaches to research and teaching.
  • Personalized Mentorship: Enjoy a low student-to-teacher ratio for individualized guidance.
  • Prestigious Resources: Access an extensive Music Library with collections in jazz, rare editions and contemporary music.
  • Baird Lecture Series: Gain exclusive access to six prominent guest lecturers annually exploring cutting-edge research and performance practices.

Dual degree in Music Librarianship

Combine an MA in Music Theory with an MS in Information and Library Science through UB’s cooperative program.

Key features:

  • Elite Career Preparation: Train for top roles in music librarianship worldwide.
  • Accreditation: Coursework aligns with Music Library Association standards.
  • Streamlined Timeline: Complete both degrees in just five semesters and one summer session, with shared credits reducing the workload.

Degree requirements

  • Curriculum Overview: The MA in Music Theory requires 38 credit hours, including:
    • Core Music Theory Seminars
    • Music History Seminars
    • Performance Electives
    • The MUS 500 Masters Colloquium
  • Students must achieve grades of “A,” “B,” or “S” in all coursework.
  • Capstone: Completion of a comprehensive exam and a portfolio of two revised seminar papers.

Take the next step

Shape the future of music theory and unlock your potential with UB’s MA in Music Theory.

Contact us

Contact us to discuss how MA in Music Theory fits your goals.