Overview

The Music Theory programme at the University of Louisville provides students with a rigorous academic environment focused on the development of performative and analytical expertise. This Master of Music degree prepares graduates for distinguished careers in teaching, research, and professional musical practice.

Students at the School of Music work closely with expert faculty to explore a broad musical repertory. The curriculum is designed to instil a core of sophisticated skills that serve practitioners throughout their professional lives, fostering a deep understanding of musical structures and history.

The university provides specialised facilities and resources, including the School of Music library and dedicated research centres.

Why Music Theory at University of Louisville?

The University of Louisville offers a distinctive teaching feature by integrating performative skills with deep theoretical analysis. The School of Music is committed to providing graduate students with individualised attention, helping them to refine their specific research interests and pedagogical techniques.

The institution maintains high standards of academic excellence, requiring students to engage in bibliography and research methods early in their studies. This ensures that every graduate is equipped with the tools necessary for high-level scholarly contribution and professional advancement in the arts.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 31108 per year
National fee: USD 31108 per year
Local fee: USD 15304 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

Theory Review
Music History Review
Major Ensembles
Graduate Oral Exam Preparation
Bibliography and Research Methods
Music History Seminar
Music Theory
Advanced Chromatic Harmony and Analysis
Advanced Post-Tonal Theory and Analysis
Advanced Analysis
Thesis
Pedagogy of Theory I
Schenkerian Analysis
Research
Music Theory Seminar
Music Electives

Careers with Music Theory

Graduates of this programme are prepared for a variety of professional pathways within the music industry and academia. Many students pursue careers in teaching at the secondary or collegiate level, while others find success in professional performance and musicology.

The analytical and research skills gained at the university also support roles in music publishing, arts administration, and editorial work. The programme provides a solid foundation for those intending to pursue further doctoral studies in music theory or related disciplines.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Theory Review

Music History Review

Bibliography and Research Methods

Music Theory

Advanced Chromatic Harmony and Analysis

Advanced Post-Tonal Theory and Analysis

Advanced Analysis

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-08 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-11-01 00:00:00 , International
Starting 2027-08-19 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-05-01 00:00:00 , International

Language

English

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105

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

36 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Louisville, United States

Disciplines

Music Musicology View 1020 other Masters in Music in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

2.7

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

105

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TOEFL^® IBT

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IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

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AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

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98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Bachelors in Music degree (or the equivalent based upon review)

Minimum GPA of 2.75 from previous undergraduate and graduate work

Submit portfolio of work

Completed application for admission, including the $65 application fee

Official transcripts from ALL colleges/universities attended

Two (2) Letters of Recommendation

A Letter of Interest for Graduate Teaching Assistantships or Departmental Service Awards.

Application for Admission

Application Fee

Transcripts

English Proficiency

Financial Statement

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

31108 USD / year

≈ 31108 USD / year
Out-of-State

31108 USD / year

≈ 31108 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

15304 USD / year

≈ 15304 USD / year

Living costs

Louisville

United States

897 - 1421 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

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Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Music Theory.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

On this page

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Louisville

Financing

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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