Temple University cherry "T" logo

Temple University

Search Keywords
20151104_Percussion_002.jpg

Music Theory MM

Master of Music in Music Theory

Study the current analytical trends in music theory and its applications with the Master of Music in Music Theory in Temple’s Boyer College of Music and Dance. Graduates of the Music Theory MM are prepared to pursue further academic study at the doctoral level. Others become professional composers or performers.

Housed within the Department of Music Studies, this master’s program is organized into a series of small seminars. Through discussion and research, you will build strong analytical skills and develop the tools to apply music theory in the academic environment. The program culminates in a comprehensive examination and a written project that is 30 to 40 pages in length. You will have six years to complete the 32-credit-hour master’s degree on a full- or part-time basis.

To apply to this program, you should be able to read a foreign language, have a well-rounded background in music history and theory, and be proficient in writing. Learn to apply the knowledge and skills you gain through your studies to composition, performance, research, teaching or therapy.

    Faculty

    Discover music theory faculty in the Boyer College of Music and Dance.

    Explore Boyer Faculty

    Classes & Curriculum

    In addition to the final written project, required courses in this master’s program include

    • Canon and Fugue,
    • Current Topics in Musicology and Theory,
    • Research in Music,
    • Seminar in Theoretical Analysis (Post-Tonal Music), and
    • Seminar in Theoretical Analysis (Schenkerian Analysis).

    Learn more about Music Theory MM courses.

    Related Graduate Degrees

    Tuition & Fees

    In keeping with Temple’s commitment to access and affordability, this Master of Music offers a competitive level of tuition with multiple opportunities for financial support.

    Tuition rates are set annually by the university and are affected by multiple factors, including program degree level (undergraduate or graduate), course load (full- or part-time), in-state or out-of-state residency, and more. These tuition costs apply to the 2025–2026 academic year.

    Pennsylvania resident: $1,282.00 per credit
    Out-of-state: $1,711.00 per credit

    You can view the full cost of attendance breakdown on the Student Financial Services website.

    Our Advisors

    Faculty advisors can help you navigate your program and discuss research opportunities, teaching assistantships and more. Learn more about Boyer College of Music and Dance faculty. 

    Program Contact

    Edward Latham, associate professor of music theory and chair of the Department of Music Studies, is the program contact for the Music History MM. 
    Phone: 215-204-8498
    Email: 

     

    Student Clubs & Organizations

    Participating in student groups provides peer support and future professional contacts. There are more than 200 student organizations at Temple University.

    • The Boyer College Electroacoustic Ensemble Project (BEEP) brings together students who create electroacoustic music in a collaborative environment. It functions as an electronic music band, a fusion of computers and traditional instruments, and a laptop orchestra.
    • ConTemplum hosts numerous concerts, forums and seminars to foster a community of musicians who are dedicated to exploring contemporary musical ideas and performing new compositions.
    • Temple University Theory and Musicology Society (THEMUS) gives students an open forum to discuss and develop scholarly work within the disciplines of music theory and musicology. Each semester, THEMUS hosts guest, faculty and student lectures. THEMUS organizes a regional graduate student conference each year for theory and musicology.

    Learn more about clubs and organizations.

    Accreditation

    The Boyer College of Music and Dance is accredited by the

    Additional Program Information