Music Theory
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As a music theory student, you will gain practical skills that reflect your musical interests through projects, research and experiences. Our program covers diverse subjects and musical styles to encourage you to explore new genres and sounds, preparing you for careers in both creative and academic settings.
Our music theory program implements a range of resources, information and research on the history of music to help you gain music-theoretical knowledge in writing about music and the skills to create your own original research and analytical works. Upon completion of a four-semester musicianship, you’ll choose between upper-level courses in analysis, counterpoint, contemporary technique, and special topics.
- Program Type: Major
- Academic Unit: Conservatory
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Music
- Standard credit hours: 120
- Delivery Mode: In-person
- Typical Program Length: 4 years
- Typical Course Load: 4-5 per semester
- Estimated Program Cost: $55,560
- * All rates or costs are for illustrative purposes only. Estimated cost is calculated by multiplying the appropriate 2025/2026 UMKC academic year resident rate by standard credit hours. Fees are NOT included in the calculation. Your hours and total costs may differ, depending on transfer hours, course choices, academic progress, program- and university-specific fees, and your qualified tuition rate. Learn more about tuition and financial aid.
Why UMKC
Vibrant arts district
Study in a city rich with cultural treasures, including the Kansas City Ballet, Folly Theater and Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts.
Peer collaboration
Collaborate with peers across disciplines, including composition, music theory, dance, instrumental studies, jazz studies, vocal studies and theater.
Kansas City is our classroom
Our university is deeply integrated into the community, providing students with exclusive opportunities to connect with area employers, gain hands-on experience and make an impact in their areas of interest.
After Graduation
No matter your major or focus in music, earning a specialized degree will equip you with valuable skills, practice and education, enhancing your prospects in the music industry. Graduates with a music theory background can explore roles in music education, production and therapy, contributing their expertise to diverse aspects of the music industry. Set yourself apart from other musicians by taking advantage of the resources and unique opportunities we offer.
Potential careers
- Composer
- Music teacher
- Performer
$57,462
Median salary/year
* Based on data from Lightcast.io for Music Directors and Composers (27-2041.00)
Potential Courses
Muse
Collaborate among disciplines to reach logical solutions to academic, professional, and performing arts challenges. Course content is derived directly from music history and how it relates to Kansas C…
Analysis
Apply multiple analytical techniques to complete movements and larger pieces of music by focusing on the study of pitch, rhythm, form, aesthetics and issues of performances.
Advanced Ear Training
Study atonal and highly chromatic tonal aural problems, complex rhythms and recognition of instruments.
Visit the Academic Catalog for a full listing of courses and descriptions.
Related Programs and Pathways
How to Apply
**Please note, students can only enroll in the Bachelor of Music: Music Theory program after completing or testing out of Musicianship IV.**
- Gather your materials
- Official transcripts.
- Names and locations of previous college(s) or high school(s) and dates you attended.
- Citizenship, residency and visa information (if applicable).
- ACT/SAT test scores (optional). Required if you would like to be considered for applicable scholarship opportunities.
- Artistic resume or CV: Please list all relevant music experience, such as ensembles, schools, teachers, performances and awards.
- Two references: List the names and contact information of your references, and the application system will send an email to them requesting that they submit a letter of recommendation on your behalf. Letters of recommendation must be received by Feb. 1.
- Audition date selection: All undergraduate music applications require a live audition on the student’s primary instrument or voice part. You must select one of the three scheduled audition dates on the application. If you are unavailable for any of these dates, please select the “video audition” option or contact Conservatory admissions.
- Review the audition repertoire requirements for your primary instrument or voice part.
- Transcripts and test scores from domestic and international undergraduate students may be sent in after the Dec. 15 Conservatory application deadline but must be received by UMKC Admissions by Feb. 1.
- Complete the online application
- No application fee for domestic undergraduate students — $75 for international students.
Have questions? Request information to have an admissions counselor contact you about the requirements for this program.
Application Dates
To Start Classes in Fall
Apply by: Dec. 15
Classes begin in August
Estimated Tuition Per Semester
$6,945
Resident Rate
(per semester)
$9,840
Heartland Rate
(per semester)
$16,868
Nonresident Rate
(per semester)