The Theory Evaluation Test (TET) is a one-hour online examination that all entering freshman Music majors must take prior to their first semester (instructions are sent during the summer before the freshman year). Students pursuing a Music minor or Dance minor must also take this test prior to enrolling in music classes.
What is the test like?
The TET tests proficiency in several areas, including:
- Pitch names in bass and treble clefs
- Key signatures
- Major and minor scales
- Intervals
- Triads in root position and inversion
- 7th chords
- Rhythm and meter
The TET has 30 questions and a range of response formats: multiple choice, fill in the blank, and matching.
The TET may be taken only once and may not be repeated.
What are the possible placement results of the TET?
Possible TET placements are:
- MUS 101, Fundamentals of Music Theory
- MUS 123, Music Theory I
Students who wish to attempt higher placement may take mock final exams for subsequent courses upon request to the Area Head of Theory and Composition. These requests may only be made after the TET is completed and graded.
But what if I took AP Music Theory? Do I need to take the TET?
If you took AP Music Theory, but did not take the AP exam, you may begin the course sequence here at MUS 123, Music Theory I. Make sure to remind your adviser when you are registering for your first-semester classes.
If you took the AP exam, your scores will be considered as follows:
- Score = 5. Placement in Music Theory III (MUS 223). Credit awarded for Music Theory I and II.
- Score = 3 or 4. Placement in Music Theory II (MUS 124). Credit awarded for Music Theory I.
- Score = 1 or 2. Placement in Music Theory I (MUS 123).
I am a transfer student. Do I need to take the TET?
If you have no prior university-level coursework in theory, and no AP Music Theory from high school, please take the TET.
If you have previous university-level coursework in theory, you will need to take the more advanced Theory Placement Exam (TPE).