The theory program at MSU provided me with exceptional opportunities to grow as a scholar and expand my musical interests. The Master's degree in Theory has set me apart from other candidates in the job market and helped pave a path for a teaching career in higher education.
The Master's degree in Music Theory prepares students for doctoral study in music theory. It also prepares dual-degree students whose primary expertise is elsewhere—such as those earning the MM Theory alongside a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in music performance or composition—for collegiate jobs that include music theory teaching.
Our graduates are very successful along both paths.
I can definitively say that my experience in the theory pedagogy program at MSU got me to where I am today. Because of my experience at MSU, I got a full teaching assistantship to my doctoral program, and because of the strength of my secondary area in theory, I ultimately won my current teaching position in applied clarinet and theory.
Employment in Positions Teaching Music Theory:
Dates below indicate year of graduation from the MM Theory degree. Asterisks(*) indicate employment in tenure-track positions.
Alumni Profiles
Now a Ph.D. student in music theory at The Ohio State University, Gerry had the opportunity to work closely with faculty in pursuing many avenues of research while at MSU. Learn more about Gerry.
Michael began his time at MSU as a tuba performance major before joining the theory master's program. He is now a Ph.D. student in music theory at the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music. Learn more about Michael.
In her time at MSU, Sam was invited to present her research at a number of conferences. She is now a Ph.D. student in music theory at Indiana University. Learn more about Sam.
Now at the Eastman School of Music as a Ph.D. student in music theory, Hanisha explored a variety of research interests at MSU. Learn more about Hanisha.
Like other students in music theory at MSU, Zach researched and presented on a wide range of personal interests in music theory during his time here. He is now a Ph.D. student at The Ohio State University. Learn more about Zach.
Currently a Ph.D. student in music theory at Florida State University, Zach amassed an impressive list of accomplishments during his years as a graduate student at MSU. Learn more about Zach.
While a graduate student in music theory at MSU from 2017 to 2019, Stefanie pursued a very active research agenda. She is now a Ph.D. student in music theory at the University of Texas at Austin. Learn more about Stefanie.
Now a Ph.D. student in music theory at McGill University, Alex launched her career with a flurry of research activity while a Master's student in music theory at MSU from 2016 to 2018. Learn more about Alex.
Now a tenure-track Assistant Professor of Music Theory and Composition at Bradley University, Lynnsey has presented and published multiple research projects undertaken while a student at MSU. Learn more about Lynnsey.