COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Music (BM) in Music Theory at the University of Alabama is a rigorous academic program focused on advanced musical analysis, composition techniques, and historical study, requiring a minimum of 122 total credit hours including general education and major-specific coursework. The major itself includes around 76–77 credit hours covering a structured sequence of theory courses such as voice leading, diatonic and chromatic harmony, and advanced harmony, along with specialized subjects like counterpoint, form and analysis, Schenkerian analysis, and 20th-century music analysis. Students also complete supporting courses in music history, world music, instrumentation, conducting, and introductory composition, ensuring a well-rounded understanding of both theoretical and practical aspects of music. Performance-related components are also included, requiring participation in applied music, piano studies, and ensembles over multiple semesters, which helps maintain performance proficiency alongside theoretical expertise. Students must maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA in the major and complete at least 12 upper-level (300- or 400-level) credit hours in residence, with no requirement for a minor, allowing deeper focus on the discipline. Additional expectations include enrolling in piano each semester unless exempted by proficiency, and some students may qualify for “principal” status in an instrument or voice, earning additional credit. A key academic milestone is the Seminar in Music Theory Research, typically taken in the sophomore year, followed by a senior-year capstone requirement in which students present a formal research paper as a lecture under faculty supervision. Certain courses like MUS 121 do not count toward general education fine arts requirements for music majors, reflecting the program’s specialized structure. Overall, the degree prepares students for careers in academia, composition, music analysis, or graduate study by combining deep theoretical knowledge with practical musicianship and research experience.