Overview

The Music Theory programme at Indiana University Bloomington provides students with an intellectually stimulating environment dedicated to the advanced study of musical structures and analytical methodologies. This master level course is designed to foster deep critical thinking and technical proficiency in the field of musicology and theory. Students engage with a curriculum that balances historical perspectives with contemporary theoretical frameworks.

Why Music Theory at Indiana University Bloomington?

Choosing to study at this institution means joining a community renowned for its artistic excellence and academic prestige. Indiana University Bloomington is home to world-class faculty who are leaders in the field of music research and performance. The campus offers unparalleled resources, including extensive music libraries and state-of-the-art facilities that support both creative and scholarly endeavours. Students benefit from a diverse, international environment that encourages the exchange of global perspectives and innovative ideas.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 27271 per year
National fee: USD 27271 per year
Local fee: USD 27271 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum is structured to provide a robust foundation in analytical techniques while allowing for specialised exploration. Modules may include:

Musical Structure
Tonal Analysis
Post-Tonal Theory
History of Theory
Counterpoint
Compositional Forms
Research Methods
Aesthetics of Music

Careers with Music Theory

Graduates from this programme are well-prepared for a variety of professional paths within the music industry and academia. Many alumni pursue roles as researchers, educators, or consultants for arts organisations. The analytical skills developed during the course are highly transferable, enabling graduates to find success in publishing, archival work, and cultural administration. The university's extensive alumni network provides a vital link to global opportunities in the performing arts and higher education sectors.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Readings in Music Theory

Schenkerian Analysis

Analysis of Music Since 1900

Stylistic Counterpoint: Variable Topics

Music Theory Pedagogy

Seminar in Music Theory: Variable Topics

Master’s Degree Comprehensive Review

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-25 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-01 00:00:00

Language

English

Credits

36 SCH

36-66 credit hours

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Bloomington, United States

Disciplines

Music View 1020 other Masters in Music in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

We are not aware of any English requirements for this programme.

Other requirements

General requirements

All persons with a bachelor’s degree in music from an accredited college, university, conservatory, or its demonstrated equivalent, are eligible to apply for admission to the Graduate Division of the Jacobs School of Music, which administers master’s degrees, doctoral degrees, diploma programs, and graduate certificates.
Bachelor’s degree equivalency is determined by the Indiana University Office of International Services for applicants who have completed their undergraduate studies abroad.

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

27271 USD / year

≈ 27271 USD / year
Out-of-State

27271 USD / year

≈ 27271 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

27271 USD / year

≈ 27271 USD / year

Living costs

Bloomington

United States

1071 - 1733 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.

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