BA/BS in Music Theory

McGill University

Montréal, Quebec, Canada•QS 2027 #30

Official program page (opens in a new tab)

Offered by McGill University in Montréal, Canada, BA/BS in Music Theory is a bachelor's degree in Music programme.

At a glance

Degree: Bachelor's Degree

Field: Music

We have no tuition fees or an application deadline on record for this programme yet — see the official programme page. — it helps other students.

Last checked September 2026 · Source: mcgill.ca ·

Program details

Overview

Music Theory, offered by the Schulich School of Music, focuses on developing models and methods for understanding musical languages, examining how pieces of music are constructed and how that analysis generalizes across compositions. First- and second-year coursework combines writing skills with musical analysis, while later courses cover subjects such as mathematical models applied to music analysis and Renaissance-style counterpoint. Students also take performance classes as part of a well-rounded music education. The program can be complemented with minors including Mathematics and Musical Science and Technology, and relates to majors such as Music History and the Bachelor of Arts in Music. Graduates pursue careers in composition, music history, teaching, and journalism, or continue to graduate study in music or a related discipline.

Requirements

Admission Requirements: The Schulich School of Music runs its own admissions process, separate from McGill's central undergraduate application review, and does not use the Quebec Cote R (R-Score) for its decisions. Quebec CEGEP applicants to a music research program (which covers Music History and Music Theory) need a diploma of collegial studies with an overall CEGEP average of at least 80%; any offer of admission is conditional on successful graduation and final grades. Every applicant, including those applying to a non-performance major, plays an instrument or voice and completes a live or recorded audition, and a program place also depends on availability. Required supporting documents are a one-page Statement of Intent, a one-to-three-page music resume, academic transcripts (or a permanent code for CEGEP applicants), audition recordings if not auditioning live, and proof of English proficiency for applicants schooled outside North America.

About McGill University

“Grandescunt aucta labore”

Type: University

Control: Public

Campus setting: Urban

Founded: 1821

Students: 40,531

QS rank: #30

Programs: 323

Location: Montréal, Quebec, Canada

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