Magic discipline

What is a magical discipline?
A magical discipline is a group of spells or magical rituals that are closly linked, typically by both function and mechanics. They may be linked by an element, such as fire or by a general principle, such as conjuration.

Fantasy
Witchcraft, Pyromancy and Shaman Magic can all be considered magical disciplines. In the Harry Potter searies of books leasons are divided (for the most part) into magical disciplines, and throughout fantasy literature whenever it is known or implied that one group of spellcasters can use magic that others can not, it is safe to assume it is due to them being students different magical disciplines.

Magical disciplines in Dungeons and Dragons
There are nine schools of magic in Dungeons and Dragons. They are, in alphabetical order.

Abjuration: Spells that protect, block or banish, a specialist is known as an Abjurer.

Conjuration: Spells that bring creatures or materials to the caster, a specialist is known as a Conjurer.

Divination: Spells that reveal information, a specialist is known as a Diviner.

Enchantment: Spells that grant the recipient with some property or endear the target to the caster, a specialist is known as an Enchanter.

Evocation: Spells that manipulate energy or create energy from nothing, a specialist is known as an Evoker.

Illusion: Spells that alter perception or create false images, a specialist is known as an Illusionist.

Necromancy: Spells that manipulate, create or destroy life or life energy, a specialist is known as a Necromancer.

Transmutation: Spells that transformthe way the recipient physically or changes its properties in some more subtle way, a specialist is known as a Transmuter.

Universal: Not truly a school, but a group of spells that do not truly fall into any school. Only a limited number of spells fall into this category. It is not possable to specialise in Universal magic. (Version 3.5 Players Handbook)