This course may also be entitled, "Basic Musicianship," "Elementary Theory" or "Harmony and Dictation." It often focuses on key aspects of music, including melody, harmony, rhythm and form. After completing this course, a student should ideally be able to read and write musical notation. Students should also be able to play an instrument with relative competency.
Some music departments require knowledge of counterpoint to fulfill a music theory degree. In such courses, students analyze the compositional methods of composers such as J.S. Bach. Students, especially those specializing in composition, may write their own pieces displaying familiarity with the contrapuntal technique. Students may also study how counterpoint has evolved since the 16th century. In the Michigan State Music Department, graduate students model their compositions after polyphonic vocal and instrumental works from a range of time periods.
Many music theory programs require students to take courses in the history of music. Courses may be titled: "History of Western Music to 1750" or "History of Western Music Since 1750." Often these are survey courses, which concentrate on critical phases and transitions in the history of music. Other courses may detail the history of music education or music therapy and their influence in a sociopolitical context. Other courses may concentrate on the history of specific musical genres, such as jazz or Baroque.
Part of music theory may entail learning the theories behind teaching music. In music pedagogy courses, students learn the techniques, goals and philosophies that comprise a successful teaching method. The pedagogy behind instructing musicians in specific instruments may also be included in this field. Additionally, students may learn the pedagogical theories behind teaching others how to perform specific genres.