Programs of Study in Theory

The Theory program at Texas Tech University offers a Bachelor of Music, Master of Music and a Ph.D. in Fine Arts (Music). The Bachelor of Music (B.M) in Theory prepares students specifically for graduate study in music theory, but is often used as a gateway into many other kinds of graduate degrees, as well as other careers post-graduation. The Master of Music (M.M.) in Theory prepares students specifically for doctoral study in music theory, but is often used as a gateway into many other kinds of doctoral programs, as well as other careers post-graduation. The PhD in Fine Arts (Music) degree is an effective preparation for university-level teaching, both within Music and across the disciplines, and also for a range of professional opportunities in arts administration, public scholarship, library and museum studies, and related fields.

The Graduate Certificate in Music Theory Pedagogy prepares graduate music students for teaching music theory at the collegiate level. The Journal of Music Theory Pedagogy reports that 80% of the music theory courses in the US are being taught by people who did not major in music theory. This means that faculty in other areas of music are frequently asked to teach music theory courses. Students who complete this certification will have a tangible record of accomplishment and preparation for these duties. Students in this certificate program will take Pedagogy of Music Theory as well as their choice of three other music theory courses so that they are engaged with current trends in research and curriculum. This certificate is open to all students enrolled in a graduate music degree other than MM-Music Theory and FADP-Music-Music Theory.