Minor in Music Theory and Composition

Course Overview

The minor in music theory and composition is an 18‑credit program that integrates upper‑level theory courses with introductory composition study and related electives. You will strengthen your understanding of tonal and post‑tonal music through classes in harmony, form, analysis, and/or counterpoint while also developing your creative voice in composition lessons. The curriculum includes required work in theory (such as MUST 312, MUST 416, MUST 417, MUST 420, or MUST 421) alongside introductory composition and additional electives that support your analytical and creative goals. Per university policy, the minor requires at least 9 credit hours that do not count toward any other major or minor, ensuring that it represents genuinely additional study.

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What You’ll Learn

Build a robust command of musical structure through courses in tonal harmony, counterpoint, and/or advanced analysis of eighteenth‑ through twenty‑first‑century music. Study formal design, motivic development, and large‑scale organization so you can understand and create coherent musical works. Develop your creative skills through introductory composition study, working with faculty to write original pieces and receive feedback on craft, notation, and idiomatic writing. Strengthen aural and analytical abilities that support both performance and composition, including score reading, harmonic hearing, and recognition of stylistic features. Explore specialized topics (such as particular style periods, analytical approaches, or compositional techniques) via approved electives that match your interests. Learn to prepare professional‑quality scores and parts that are clear for performers and suitable for rehearsal and performance.

What Majors Pair with This Minor

Because it balances theory depth with creative work, the Music Theory and Composition minor is especially useful for students who want to connect analytical insight with original music‑making. It can support both performance‑centered careers and more academic or media‑focused pathways.

Common pairings include:

• Other arts‑related majors (such as Theatre or Film) for students who collaborate with composers or who want skills that support writing music for stage and screen.
• Any major at Ball State who is interested in developing their background in music theory and studying music composition.