Graduate Certificate in Music Theory Pedagogy
OVERVIEW
Who is this program for?
A graduate certificate in Music Theory Pedagogy is ideal for musicians, educators, and scholars looking to enhance their ability to teach music theory effectively at the secondary or collegiate level. This program is also valuable for those pursuing careers as music instructors, curriculum developers, or academic researchers specializing in music education and theory.
Program Overview
The graduate certificate in Music Theory pedagogy is intended primarily for DMA students who wish to gain experience and expertise in theory pedagogy in order to strengthen their background for increased marketability in higher education.
Our Accreditation
This program is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM)—the principal U.S. accreditor for higher education in music. This esteemed accreditation ensures our curricula, faculty, and institutional practices meet rigorous national standards—providing students with a high-quality, well-rounded education that prepares them for academic success, professional training, and transferability of credentials.
Admission Requirements
Please view the Graduate School's Admission Requirements. If there are Program Specific Requirements listed below, those will also apply.
Application Requirements
Please view the application requirements for the Graduate School. If there are Program Specific Requirements listed below, those will also apply.
Program Specific Requirements
Students desiring admission into this certificate curriculum will be interviewed by a committee consisting of members of the theory faculty. The interview will include an appraisal of the student’s keyboard proficiency, sight-singing and aural skills, and understanding of theoretical concepts and pedagogy. It is assumed that any student granted admission into the certificate curriculum would have been accepted as a student in the graduate school. The division also offers a course in theory pedagogy for master's and doctoral students in performance, composition, and other areas of emphasis, preparing them for faculty appointments that may include duties in teaching theory.
Application Deadlines
Domestic
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Fall
- 07/25/2025
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Spring
- 12/12/2025
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Summer
- 04/18/2026
International
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Fall
- 04/15/2025
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Spring
- 09/15/2025
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What You'll Learn
Degree requirements, course descriptions and academic policies for all programs are detailed in the University Catalog.
Explore Funding Options
As a graduate student, there are additional opportunities for student funding. Once you are admitted into a degree-bearing graduate program at UK, you can apply for a wide variety of financial assistance, including assistantships and fellowships. These opportunities can be tied to your program’s availability, so you should inquire with your program director about opportunities available within your program!
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