Bachelor of Music in Theory The Ohio State University

Ohio State's music theory program equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary for virtually any music-related career. Core courses in theory and aural training foster strong musicianship through creative exercises in improvisation and composition, while upper-level courses more deeply examine topics such counterpoint, music theory and music technology.

Students majoring in music theory will achieve the following learning outcomes:

• Students must demonstrate achievement of professional, entry-level competence in the area of specialization, including significant technical mastery, capability to produce work and solve professional problems independently, and a coherent set of artistic/intellectual goals that are evident in their work.
• Students will have the ability to communicate musical ideas, concepts and requirements to professionals and lay persons related to the practice of the major field. Such communication may involve musical, oral, written and visual media.
• Students will gain an understanding of the nature of the music field in the professional world, particularly related to organizational structures, work ethics, technological resources and entrepreneurial skills required for advancing their careers.
• Students must gain experiences in general studies sufficient to prepare them for a range of career options

Career Prospects in Music – Theory

Most music theorists continue their studies in graduate school and earn a doctoral degree before becoming a college teacher or university professor. Recent Ohio State music theory majors have gone on to graduate school at Indiana University, the University of Ottawa, The University of Rochester’s Eastman School of Music and SUNY at Stony Brook, as well as at Ohio State.