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Music Theory Jazz Certificate (Undergraduate)

Music Theory Jazz Undergraduate certificate

Learn the fundamental principles of music theory and sharpen your listening abilities, focusing on jazz music with the 14-credit Music Theory Jazz Undergraduate certificate in Temple’s Boyer College of Music and Dance.

Develop your ability to think critically about music through analysis, counterpoint, ear training, harmony and orchestration. Theory coursework covers topics including

  • advanced chord progressions,
  • advanced interval recognition,
  • advanced sight singing,
  • melody,
  • modal applications,
  • tonal harmony and
  • transcription.

You’ll apply your analytical skills to compositions ranging from short pieces to larger works. Learn to write original second parts to given melodies as well as complex harmonizations.The Department of Music Studies prepares students to be well-rounded musicians who can apply their skills and knowledge to performance, composition, teaching, or research.

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    Classes & Curriculum

    Students pursuing the Music Theory Jazz Undergraduate certificate can complete their program in four or six semesters. Courses will include

    • Theory I (Jazz),
    • Theory II (Jazz),
    • Theory IV and
    • Topics in Music Theory.

    Learn more about Music Theory Jazz Undergraduate certificate  coursework.

    Tuition & Fees

    The tuition for this Certificate Program is based on school or college of your major, program degree level (undergraduate or graduate), course load (full- or part-time), in-state or out-of-state residency, and more. You can view the full Cost of Attendance breakdown on the Student Financial Services website. You can also view the 2025–2026 tuition rates.

    Our Academic Advisors

    The Center for the Performing and Cinematic Arts has a centralized advising office with five staff members. This advising team serves all undergraduate students in the Boyer College of Music and Dance and the School of Theater, Film and Media Arts.

    Advisors help students navigate the undergraduate curriculum for each degree program. The academic advising team for music, dance, theater, and film and media arts majors is located in Mitten Hall, Suite 200 West.

    To schedule an advising appointment based on your individual needs or for more help, contact the advising team.
    Phone: 215-204-2227

    Schedule an advising appointment.

    Program Contact

    Contact the following faculty for more information about the Undergraduate certificate in Music Theory Jazz.

    Terell Stafford is the director of Jazz Studies.
    Phone: 215-204-8036
    Email:

    Additional Program Information