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Theory Placement Exam

The Winter/Spring 2023 Theory Placement Exam will be held virtually, on Friday, March 24th, 2023, from 2-4pm Pacific. Specifics are below the offering information section.

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Theory Placement Exam background info:

The Theory Placement Exam will determine what level theory majors will being with which can effect time to graduation. Students that have taken theory courses or the AP Music Theory exam are still required to take the Placement Exam. Credits for the courses taken from other schools/AP Exams may transfer over and contribute to the student's class standing, however, the Placement Exam is the only way students can test into the correct theory level for their background. 

Transfers students are strongly encouraged to take the exam the year before they apply as placement results may determine if the students spends two or three years completing the major. 

If a student places into Music 13 or Music 14, rather than MUSC 30A, the major requirements they are eligible to complete in their first year will be affected. All potential and incoming Transfer students should email music@ucsc.edu to schedule phone or Zoom advising.

Students without theory background should still take the Theory Placement Exam. These students can plan to take Music 13: Beginning Theory & Musicianship I  if they have very little prior theory experience, or Music 14: Beginning Theory & Musicianship II if they have some background in theory. Students will not be able to enroll in either Music 13 or Music 14 when online enrollment appointments open for the quarter - they must place into it via the Placement Exam (see above for info), and should attend the first day of class to receive a permission code from the instructor. Priority is given to music majors and minors by class standing. 

 

Theory Placement Exam Practice Materials:

Sample Theory Placement Exam (Sample Exam Keys: Part I - HERE, Part II - HERE)

Online Practice Resources guide

 

Winter/Spring 2023 Placement Exam offering info:

 

**If you require DRC accommodations, please get in touch with the Music office as soon as possible at <music@ucsc.edu>. When contacting the office, please include any DRC documentation you have received.**

Date: Friday, March 24th, 2023

Time: 2-4pm, Pacific

Place: Virtual, held over Zoom, with Canvas support. If you are interested in taking this exam, sign up using THIS FORM.