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Florida State / College of Music / Areas of Study / Music Theory & Composition / Departmental Exams / Graduate Music Theory and Composition Majors / M.M. Theory Comprehensive Exam
M.M. Theory Comprehensive Exam
Before taking the comprehensive oral examination, you must pass the Graduate Theory Competency Exams.
I. Thesis Program
For this program, the Master's Comprehensive Examination consists of an oral section that is usually administered immediately following the defense of Thesis. You must be registered for MUS 8966 (0 credit) during the semester in which you take the exam. You may expect some or all of the music theory faculty to be present during the oral comprehensive examination, and you may be asked questions related to your entire degree program.
There is no limit to the number of times that the oral examination may be retaken.
II. Non-Thesis Program
For the non-thesis program, a written examination is required, which consists of two analytical exercises: involving one tonal and one post-tonal composition.
This written part of the examination will be distributed on the Wednesday in the same week as Veterans Day and the Wednesday before Spring Break. The exams are closed book and must be completed by the Monday 12 days later. An oral follow-up to the written exam will be scheduled following the written exam
At the beginning of the semester you plan to take the examination, you should ask one music theory faculty member to serve as your committee chair. Two other faculty members will also be appointed to your committee by the music theory and composition area coordinator.
NOTE: The Comprehensive Exam may be evaluated as a diagnostic exam for admittance to the doctoral program. If submitted as a diagnostic exam, an essay addressing your research interests in music theory will also be required.
