An Important Distinction between MA and MM Degree Programs Because the MA is a research degree, a strong emphasis is placed on writing and research skills. Full command of written English is assumed for students admitted to MA programs, and is required before students are permitted to begin a thesis or dissertation project. Composition and music education may be undertaken within the division of graduate research studies (the MA as described in this section) or within the division of graduate professional studies (the Master of Music). These two programs have differences in emphasis and course content. As part of the application process, the master of music requires an audition on an applied instrument or voice, the MA does not, with the exception of the MA in Music Leadership. It is especially important that composition and music education applicants decide whether they should apply to the MA or MM program, based on their backgrounds and goals. Applicants to the MA must submit GRE scores. Requirements for the MA degree are expected to be completed within five years after the work is begun, but is typically completed within two years of full-time study. The basic residency requirement for the degree is one year of full-time study or its equivalent, two years for musicology majors. The MA in Music Leadership is completed in one full-time academic year, framed by two summers.<br><br>The MA with a major in music theory is not normally taken as a separate degree program. Rather, the MA is awarded to a student in the MA/PhD program in music theory after satisfying one foreign language requirement and after completing 30 credits (with at least nine credit hours of non-theory electives) in the course of study for the PhD in theory with a grade of B or higher. MA students must pass a final exam if finishing with the MA only, or pass a qualifying exam in order to move on to candidacy for the PhD.