The Division of Composition, Musicology and Theory includes two areas of study for music majors, Theory and Composition, and Musicology. Theory and Composition focuses on knowledge, aural training, and analytical skills as a basis for composition and scholarly work. Musicology focuses on the concept and practices of music in different cultures and historical contexts. The University of Memphis offers a course of study in ethnomusicology that focuses on the musical traditions of the southern United States.

General Studies in Music courses are designed to give non-music majors a wider view of the place of music in the world.

Faculty in the division actively contribute to their fields of study, either composing or writing scholarly publications.

Degrees offered within the Division include the Bachelor of Music (Music History, Composition), Master of Music (Composition, Musicology), Doctor of Musical Arts (Composition), and Doctor of Philosophy (Historical Musicology, Southern Regional Studies).