We suggest that you investigate these participating schools and use their forms to ask questions: Northwestern Bienen School of Music, McGill University Schulich School of Music (check their Music Technology program), Eastman School of Music. Also check out Goldsmiths at U of London and McMaster University. For additional information, look for the Music Cognition Labs associated with the Society for Music Perception and Cognition. You’ll find those in the Resources section of SMPC’s website.

First look at the application requirements at schools you’re considering applying to for the graduate degree you’re interested in. If this doesn’t answer all of your questions, contact the admissions offices.

As this article states, Music Cognition is an interdisciplinary, academic field. And people come to it from different directions. A strong undergraduate background in music theory can be useful, but some people major in performance and either take a dual major in neuroscience or a minor in it.

As this article states, music cognition is a research discipline. Music therapy, according to the American Music Therapy Association, “is the clinical and evidence-based use of music interventions to accomplish individualized goals within a therapeutic relationship by a credentialed professional who has completed an approved music therapy degree program.” Visit their website and read articles on MajoringInMusic.com about music therapy to learn more.

Since you are just starting out, we suggest you keep all avenues open so you can continue exploring music and the many applications of music. As the author of this article points out, “Spending your undergraduate years attempting to master an instrument, performing in ensembles, training your ear, and studying music history and theory provides you with skills and knowledge that you can draw on your entire career.”

Don’t give up on your theory, whatever it is, and find ways to explore it further. Look for opportunities during the school year and in summer to deepen your knowledge and experience of music cognition. Feed your interests and curiosity and enjoy what you’re learning as you move forward.

Thank you! I am very hopeful for this to happen.

Great question and great field to be interested in! Check the schools mentioned in this article to start answering your question – you can see Northwestern’s program right on MajoringInMusic.com. Also click on the SMPC resource listed on the right side of this article.

Wonderful to hear about your dedication and passion. Best wishes to you as you continue on your path!