Music (Concentration in Theory and History)
The Bachelor of Arts in Music with a Concentration in Theory and History at Notre Dame University offers students an intellectually rich and artistically grounded exploration of music’s structural, cultural, and historical dimensions. Designed for those with a deep appreciation for both sound and scholarship, the program blends music analysis, composition techniques, and historical context to cultivate a nuanced understanding of the musical tradition. Students engage in rigorous coursework covering Western classical repertoire, global music cultures, and the evolution of musical form, supported by ear training, harmony, and counterpoint studies.
Throughout their studies, students benefit from a curriculum that balances academic depth with creative expression. With access to music libraries, faculty mentorship, and performance opportunities, they gain the tools to critically assess the impact of music across societies and eras. Whether analyzing 18th-century fugues or exploring contemporary music theory, students are encouraged to think deeply, write analytically, and explore music as both a technical craft and a cultural force. The program serves both as a solid foundation for graduate study and a launching pad for careers that intersect with music history, education, media, and research.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Music (Concentration in Theory and History)
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 03 January 2026
- Location: University of Notre Dame, United States
- Field of Study: History
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Musical Foundations and Core Skills
- Music Theory I & II
- Aural Skills I
- Introduction to Music History
- Fundamentals of Composition
- Academic Writing in the Arts
Year 2 – Intermediate Theory and Historical Perspectives
- Music Theory III
- Aural Skills II
- Survey of Western Music
- History of World Music Traditions
- Elective: Music Technology or Conducting
Year 3 – Advanced Analysis and Special Topics
- Counterpoint and Advanced Harmony
- 18th- and 19th-Century Music History
- Analytical Techniques in Music
- Research Methods in Musicology
- Elective: Popular Music Studies or Jazz History
Year 4 – Capstone and Integration
- Seminar in Music Theory and Historiography
- Senior Thesis or Research Project
- Music and Society
- Elective: Film Music or Ethnomusicology
- Performance Ensemble or Independent Study
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program pursue careers in music education, arts administration, music journalism, academic research, and library and archival sciences, often working as music historians, theory instructors, arts program coordinators, or media researchers. Others continue into graduate studies in musicology, composition, or performance practice, supported by the program’s scholarly emphasis and critical writing focus. Employment opportunities also exist in publishing, cultural heritage institutions, and nonprofit arts organizations. The program’s integration of theory, historical context, and research methods equips graduates with strong analytical thinking, writing, and communication skills—valuable assets across multiple industries.
Why Choose This Program
Notre Dame University’s Music program with a Theory and History concentration offers a thoughtful, interdisciplinary approach to understanding music as both an artistic and intellectual pursuit. With a curriculum that emphasizes historical depth, analytical rigor, and cultural literacy, students emerge with a broad and informed perspective on the musical world. The program fosters curiosity, precision, and scholarly engagement, encouraging students to explore the connections between music and wider human experience. Whether your goal is to teach, research, or contribute to the cultural sector, this program provides the academic tools, mentorship, and inspiration to help you turn your passion for music into a purposeful and impactful career.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 574 631 5000
Email: admissions@nd.edu
Address: University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, United States
