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    • Music Theory

    Music Theory Courses Online

    Learn music theory for a deeper understanding of music. Study scales, chords, rhythm, and harmony.

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    Explore the Music Theory Course Catalog

    • U

      University of California San Diego

      Data Structures and Algorithms

      Skills you'll gain: Data Structures, Graph Theory, Algorithms, Network Routing, Program Development, Debugging, Network Model, Bioinformatics, Operations Research, Data Storage, Development Testing, Test Engineering, Software Testing, Theoretical Computer Science, Computational Thinking, Network Analysis, Test Case, Programming Principles, Computer Programming, Epidemiology

      4.6
      Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
      ·
      17K reviews

      Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    • U

      University of California San Diego

      Introduction to Discrete Mathematics for Computer Science

      Skills you'll gain: Graph Theory, Logical Reasoning, Combinatorics, Computational Logic, Deductive Reasoning, Cryptography, Probability, Key Management, Computational Thinking, Encryption, Network Analysis, Public Key Cryptography Standards (PKCS), Algorithms, Theoretical Computer Science, Python Programming, Data Structures, Cybersecurity, Arithmetic, Computer Programming, Mathematical Modeling

      4.5
      Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
      ·
      3.6K reviews

      Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    • M

      Michigan State University

      Photography Basics and Beyond: From Smartphone to DSLR

      Skills you'll gain: Design Elements And Principles, Photography, Photo Editing, Peer Review, Graphic and Visual Design, Post-Production, Photo/Video Production and Technology, Digital Design, File Management, Adobe Creative Cloud, Creativity, Color Theory, Storytelling, Content Creation, Writing, Information Privacy, Web Design and Development

      4.7
      Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
      ·
      6.5K reviews

      Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    • U

      University of California San Diego

      Big Data

      Skills you'll gain: Apache Spark, Apache Hadoop, Data Integration, Exploratory Data Analysis, Big Data, Graph Theory, Data Pipelines, Database Design, Data Modeling, Regression Analysis, Applied Machine Learning, Data Presentation, Scalability, Data Mining, Data Processing, Statistical Analysis, Data Management, NoSQL, Database Management Systems, Network Analysis

      4.5
      Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
      ·
      14K reviews

      Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    • C

      California Institute of the Arts

      Graphic Design

      Skills you'll gain: Typography, Design Elements And Principles, Graphic Design, Visual Design, Logo Design, Design Software, Digital Design, Creative Design, Graphic and Visual Design, Color Theory, Adobe InDesign, Photo Editing, Photography, Style Guides, Branding, Peer Review, Art History, Design, Design Strategies, Design Research

      4.7
      Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
      ·
      21K reviews

      Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    • U

      University of Minnesota

      Software Development Lifecycle

      Skills you'll gain: User Story, Agile Software Development, Software Design Patterns, Design Thinking, Software Development Methodologies, Software Design, Agile Methodology, Agile Project Management, Engineering Software, Process Mapping, Software Engineering, Kanban Principles, Software Development Life Cycle, Software Quality Assurance, Program Development, Application Security, Scrum (Software Development), User Experience Design, Requirements Analysis, Lean Methodologies

      4.7
      Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
      ·
      9.7K reviews

      Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    • U

      University of Toronto

      Self-Driving Cars

      Skills you'll gain: Computer Vision, Image Analysis, Control Systems, Embedded Software, Automation, Deep Learning, Software Architecture, Computer Graphics, Simulations, Safety Assurance, Artificial Neural Networks, Global Positioning Systems, Visualization (Computer Graphics), Hardware Architecture, Estimation, Algorithms, Machine Learning Methods, Predictive Modeling, Scenario Testing, Spatial Data Analysis

      4.7
      Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
      ·
      3.5K reviews

      Advanced · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    • W

      Wesleyan University

      Creative Writing

      Skills you'll gain: Storytelling, Peer Review, Writing and Editing, Writing, Editing, Proofreading, Storyboarding, Content Creation, Constructive Feedback, Creativity, Persistence, Professionalism

      4.6
      Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
      ·
      6.2K reviews

      Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    • U

      University of Pennsylvania

      Business Foundations

      Skills you'll gain: Operations Management, Return On Investment, Operational Efficiency, Financial Statements, Financial Statement Analysis, Human Capital, Go To Market Strategy, Process Analysis, Branding, People Management, Financial Reporting, Capital Budgeting, Financial Accounting, Financial Modeling, Balance Sheet, Consumer Behaviour, Human Resource Strategy, Marketing Planning, Peer Review, Analysis

      4.7
      Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
      ·
      26K reviews

      Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    • S

      Stanford University

      Algorithms

      Skills you'll gain: Data Structures, Graph Theory, Algorithms, Bioinformatics, Theoretical Computer Science, Network Model, Computational Thinking, Network Analysis, Analysis, Programming Principles, Probability & Statistics, Network Routing, Probability, Operations Research, Design Strategies

      4.8
      Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
      ·
      5.9K reviews

      Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    • U

      University of Pennsylvania

      Business Analytics

      Skills you'll gain: People Analytics, Data-Driven Decision-Making, Human Capital, Business Analytics, Descriptive Analytics, Business Intelligence, Financial Data, Marketing Analytics, Analytics, Talent Management, Financial Analysis, Predictive Analytics, Human Resources Management and Planning, Peer Review, Business Analysis, Financial Statement Analysis, Financial Forecasting, Customer Insights, Workforce Planning, Demand Planning

      4.6
      Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
      ·
      18K reviews

      Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    • Status: Free
      Free
      T

      Technical University of Denmark (DTU)

      Antimicrobial resistance - theory and methods

      Skills you'll gain: Laboratory Testing, Quality Assurance, Microbiology, Infectious Diseases, Bioinformatics, Medical Laboratory, Clinical Laboratory Science, Epidemiology, Public Health and Disease Prevention, Data Quality, Medical Science and Research, Biology, Public Health, Pharmacology, Molecular Biology

      4.7
      Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
      ·
      2.5K reviews

      Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    Music Theory learners also search

    Music
    Music Business
    Music Technology
    Music History
    Classical Music
    Music Production
    Piano Theory
    Media
    1…456…144

    In summary, here are 10 of our most popular music theory courses

    • Data Structures and Algorithms: University of California San Diego
    • Introduction to Discrete Mathematics for Computer Science: University of California San Diego
    • Photography Basics and Beyond: From Smartphone to DSLR: Michigan State University
    • Big Data: University of California San Diego
    • Graphic Design: California Institute of the Arts
    • Software Development Lifecycle: University of Minnesota
    • Self-Driving Cars: University of Toronto
    • Creative Writing: Wesleyan University
    • Business Foundations: University of Pennsylvania
    • Algorithms: Stanford University

    Frequently Asked Questions about Music Theory

    Understanding why you want to learn music theory, whether to improve your musical skills, compose music, or understand music better, will keep you motivated. Regular practice, including listening and analyzing music, can help solidify concepts. Join online communities like music forums or local groups for support and insight. Work on real projects such as composing or analyzing pieces of music. A great starting point is Fundamentals of Music Theory by The University of Edinburgh on Coursera.‎

    Coursera has some great free music theory courses, such as Edinburgh Music Theory, Audio Signal Processing and The Music and Life of Beethoven. These online classes can help you deepen your understanding of music theory, audio technology and Beethoven's rich musical legacy.‎

    If you are new to music theory, Berklee's Musicianship Specialization is the perfect place to start. It offers courses such as Music Theory, Play Guitar, Piano Techniques for Modern Music, and Guitar Theory that can help you get a great foundation in music theory and unlock your musical potential.‎

    For those looking to learn more advanced music theory, Melodic Forms and Simple Harmony, Piano Scales for Modern Music, Beethoven's Piano Sonatas, The Blues and Jazz Improvisation courses are excellent resources to expand your musical knowledge!‎

    Music theory is the set of rules that govern how to create and communicate music. You can think of music theory as the equivalent of grammar when it comes to language. The fundamentals of melody, rhythm, and harmony are the main elements of music theory. Many of the skills you need to play an instrument or sing are part of music theory as well—elements like notes, chords, scales, keys, and tempo. Music theory also explains the qualities that make a song or piece of music good, such as pitch, tone, dynamics, and timbre.‎

    A knowledge of music theory can help you become a better singer, musician, songwriter, or performer. It’s true that you can write a quality song or compose a compelling piece of music with no understanding of music theory whatsoever, but knowing the logic behind good music helps you to create works listeners will enjoy. Music theory isn’t a set of hard and fast rules you must obey every time, but it helps you communicate and connect better with the music that you create. Understanding music theory also makes it easier to conquer more complex musical forms and styles.‎

    If you’re a professional musician or aspire to be one, having a knowledge of music theory can help you play pieces and sing songs better. You’ll also compose better songs or works when you understand how music theory works. Music theory also comes in handy if you’re teaching music because you can impart your knowledge to your students and help them succeed. Even if you don’t play music professionally, you can benefit from knowing music theory because it helps you think strategically, and making music for fun spurs your creativity as well, both of which can enhance any career you have.‎

    Music theory is a broad discipline, but online courses on Coursera can help you learn it with the flexibility that fits your lifestyle. You’ll have access to information that can help you gain a foothold in the concepts and rules that govern music theory, and you’ll also have the opportunity to discover practical applications that can help you compose and perform music more effectively. As a professional musician looking to take your career to the next level or a living room performer who wants to hone your skills, online courses on Coursera provide resources that can help you attain the knowledge you need to make music with greater confidence.‎

    Online Music Theory courses offer a convenient and flexible way to enhance your knowledge or learn new Music Theory skills. Choose from a wide range of Music Theory courses offered by top universities and industry leaders tailored to various skill levels.‎

    When looking to enhance your workforce's skills in Music Theory, it's crucial to select a course that aligns with their current abilities and learning objectives. Our Skills Dashboard is an invaluable tool for identifying skill gaps and choosing the most appropriate course for effective upskilling. For a comprehensive understanding of how our courses can benefit your employees, explore the enterprise solutions we offer. Discover more about our tailored programs at Coursera for Business here.‎

    This FAQ content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals.

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