Master of Arts in Music - Theory

Theories of music describe ways that listeners, composers, and performers conceive of the elements of their art. Study of theory, then, informs all aspects of musical learning at UBC. Our faculty include internationally known researchers who contribute to theories of rhythm and meter, music cognition, computer applications, music theory pedagogy, and the analysis of a diverse range of recent art music and traditional music from across the world.

Students in our graduate programs are mentored professionally through intensive seminars, teaching assistantships, research assistantships, and conference participation. We welcome research of an interdisciplinary nature, involving musicology, ethnomusicology, mathematics, linguistics, and other musically pertinent areas.

The entering student should have a Bachelor of Music or a Bachelor of Arts in Music with at least two upper-level music theory electives beyond the required core theory sequence. Training in related subjects (e.g., keyboard harmony, counterpoint, composition, orchestration) is strongly recommended. Audition
Submit one or two course projects in music theory, including if possible at least one analysis paper.
If you are a composer, please provide the score of a recent composition.
Submit a supplementary statement. This should include additional information concerning your graduate course work: course titles that may not be specific on your transcript, major compositions studied in detail, theoretical systems studied, any original works composed, works you have performed, and any other pertinent information (with a listing of principal teachers). Further, describe in the statement any training or experience which you feel might enhance your qualifications for graduate study in music theory but which were not part of listed course work. Finally, describe your professional goals, explaining your reasons for choosing to carry on graduate work in music theory.

IELTS - A minimum overall band score of 6.5 is required with a minimum score of 6.0 in each component.
TOEFL IBT - 90 for the internet-based exam with minimum component scores of 22 (Reading, Listening) and 21 (Writing, Speaking).
PTE - A minimum overall score of 65 on the academic (NOT general) test is required with minimums of 60 reading, 60 writing, 60 listening, and 60 speaking.