Music Theory & Composition

The five full-time faculty members of UK theory & composition are engaged in active creation and research with distinction in popular music studies, pedagogy, Schenkerian studies, 19th-century music, and commissioned compositions.

UK offers PhD and MA degrees in music theory, the MM and DMA in composition, as well as a concentration in theory or composition within the BA degree.

Our program is small enough to enable extensive direct contact with faculty, and our graduates find themselves well-prepared for their careers or further study. Click here to find out about requirements or contact the coordinator of the Theory & Composition Division Kevin Holm-Hudson.

Certificate in Theory Pedagogy

The division also offers extended training in theory pedagogy for DMA and other doctoral students students in performance, composition, and other areas of emphasis; preparing them for faculty appointments that include duties in teaching theory. The program involves individual mentoring with theory faculty in addition to coursework.