该学位的目的是为毕业生准备大学水平的教学或博士学位学习，该课程包括课堂教学经验，对各种理论文本的研究和调查以及与教职顾问/导师的合作。鼓励申请人考虑与其他领域（例如表演，音乐学，指挥，作曲或钢琴教学法）配对学习音乐理论教学法。主动聆听是理解音乐和培养音乐思想所必需的技能，需要具备音乐水平：在中等程度的水平，乐谱阅读和流畅的键盘和声。一个理论家必须听到一个人在乐谱中看到的东西，并看到一个人在乐谱中听到的东西。
The study of music theory centers on interpretative acts that range from the conceptual to the practical. Our program is designed to engage students in the scholarly and pedagogical aspects of the discipline. At the University of Missouri, we invite students to explore the many ways of understanding music. Our scholars engage in active listening, vibrant discussions, and thoughtful analysis through compositions, collaborative presentations, and research projects. The skills gained through these activities are essential for those who wish to pursue careers in education, performance, composition, or the academic study of music.<br><br>This degree is designed to prepare the graduate for college-level teaching or doctoral study. The program includes in-class teaching experience, a survey of a wide variety methodologies, and collaboration with a faculty mentor. Applicants are encouraged to consider studying music theory pedagogy paired with another area (e.g., performance, musicology, conducting, composition, or piano pedagogy).