PhD Music Theory at University of Oregon

Programme overview

The PhD in Music Theory develops advanced competency in analytical methodologies for tonal and post-tonal music, knowledge of the history of the discipline, and academic research and writing skills at the level of scholarly publication. Students also gain familiarity with a related field such as musicology or ethnomusicology and skills in collegiate music theory pedagogy.

Faculty: School of Music and Dance | Department: Music Theory | Duration: 83-91 credits | Intake: Fall; application deadline December 10, 2026 for Fall 2027 | Location: Eugene, OR, United States

What you will study

Core requirements cover current trends in music theory, theory pedagogy, a music history survey, post-tonal theory, tonal analysis, two history of theory courses and three seminars, plus six menu-based courses. Students also take non-music courses and research development courses, a comprehensive exam, 18 credits of dissertation and a final lecture and oral defense.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

School of Music and Dance (doctoral programs): GRE scores are not required. Materials: curriculum vitae, statement of purpose describing research interests and reasons for pursuing music theory, two research papers (at least one music-theoretical or analytical), an interview with music theory faculty, three references, and a preliminary application for the music theory GE position emailed as a PDF. Final deadline December 10, 2026 for Fall 2027. International applicants whose first language is not English: IELTS 7.0 or Duolingo English Test 130 for doctoral applicants, or a bachelor's degree or higher from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or an institution in Australia, Canada (excluding Quebec), Ireland, New Zealand or the United Kingdom. Application fee: $70 domestic, $90 international.

Requirements published at program group level.

Tuition is charged per credit, so the total depends on the modules you register for each year. Current fees are listed in the official fee schedule.

Each graduate programme sets its own application deadlines and required materials.

Graduate application fee: $70 for domestic applicants and $90 for international applicants for degree-seeking programmes; each doctoral programme sets its own deadlines.

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