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What is Music Therapy?

Music therapy is a process by which individuals obtain treatment for ailments, both mental and physical, through the use of music. Various methods are employed, such as composition, improvisation, listening and discussion, to engage the patient and utilize music as a central theme of that session.

The use of music to provide therapeutic treatment has been advanced greatly over the years, providing methods for emotional and physical recuperation. Music therapists will work through hospitals, schools, clinics and other locations that provide therapy and assistance.

Career Summary

MEDIAN SALARY

$60,630

PERCENT ABOVE NATIONAL
INCOME AVERAGE

38.87%

TOTAL SECTOR EMPLOYMENT

18,380

Degree Median Salary vs Adjacent Degree Types

Source: BLS, US Census, and IPEDS

2024 Best Music Therapy Degree

The University of Miami's top ranked Music Therapy major is an exciting, challenging, and satisfying pursuit. Students are provided with a comprehensive scientific, evidence-based curriculum. Offering clinical training and research in numerous hospitals and clinics. They equip their students with every essential knowledge and skill to aid them in pursuing their passion.

Acceptance Rate

27.13

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

Florida State University's top rated Music Therapy program is evidence-based, allied health professional.  The program has provided comprehensive clinical education and training since 1950. Preparing students for clinical practice in a wide range of settings and successful completion of the program qualifies students to sit for the board certification examination. Their graduate programs provide advanced training in clinical, administrative, and research skills and prepare students to be leaders in clinical work, education, and research. Students completing the degree are recommended by the college to the university for conferral of the degree.

Acceptance Rate

35.97

Student to Faculty Ratio

21:1

The University of Georgia's Music Therapy degree prepares the student for a career in the therapeutic practice of music in an effort to restore, maintain, or improve mental and/or physical health. The curriculum includes a strong emphasis on psychology and the social sciences and multiple opportunities to become involved in the profession through observation and participation in clinical experiences. Completion of the program and certification exam leads to licensure as a Board-Certified Music Therapist. The program is accredited by the American Music Therapy Association (AMTA) and the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM).

Acceptance Rate

45.3

Student to Faculty Ratio

17:1

Southern Methodist University's Music Therapy program uses an interdisciplinary approach to develop knowledge in music therapy, history, and performance while providing focused training in music therapy, research, and psychology. The program is approved by the American Music Therapy Association. Completing the degree entitles the graduate to take the national board examination in music therapy. Students completing this program of study may add a minor in psychology with nine additional psychology credits.

Acceptance Rate

47.29

Student to Faculty Ratio

N.A

SUNY College at New Paltz offers a Graduate degree in Music Therapy and a Master of Science in Music Therapy. The Music Therapy graduate program offers students a baccalaureate degree in music the opportunity to study music therapy at the advanced level. Students acquire musical, clinical, and research skills essential to professional practice. The Master of Science in Music Therapy is approved by American Music Therapy Association (AMTA). Graduate applicants are required to demonstrate proficiency on a primary instrument.

Acceptance Rate

45.18

Student to Faculty Ratio

15:1

The University of Minnesota-Twin Cities' Music Therapy degree is a professional four-year degree program of intensive study in the field of music therapy. Completing the program ensures eligibility to take the board certification exam. Successful completion of the exam legitimates students for practice as music therapist-board certified. The professional curriculum is approved by the American Music Therapy Association.

Acceptance Rate

56.74

Student to Faculty Ratio

17:1

The College of Wooster's Bachelor of Music Therapy offers students a demonstration of basic writing proficiency in their first year through a placement examination. They will complete a course designated as Writing Intensive. Requiring students to complete 14 courses outside music. Graduates are more than ready to navigate their way into the industry.

Acceptance Rate

54.66

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

Temple University's course in Music Therapy is an interpersonal process in which the therapist uses music and all of its facets. The program is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music and approved by the American Music Therapy Association. Graduates are eligible to take the national examination of the Certification Board for Music Therapists. The institution offers an undergraduate and graduate degree in the program.

Acceptance Rate

60.04

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

Nazareth College's Music Therapy degree offers several advantages including the performance opportunities of other music majors. Students gain clinical practice skills through musical proficiency, research, and direct clinical experience. They have the opportunity to work with people with special needs in Ecuador, do social outreach through music in South Africa, Uganda, and more. Completing the program makes students eligible to sit for the national certification examination in music therapy.

Acceptance Rate

64.49

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

The University of Dayton's Music Therapy major is an interpersonal process in which music is used to optimize health. Music Therapists help individuals with disabilities, illnesses, and unique needs to reach their potential and lead more satisfying lives. They strive to help their students discover the transformative power of music along with them. Preparing them to assess client needs and design individualized experiences in music composition, listening, improvisation, and performance. 

Acceptance Rate

72.03

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

Indiana Wesleyan University's Music Therapy degree program is designed to train students to use musical and clinical skills to meet the identified needs of their clients. It is fully accredited by AMTA and NASM. The field is a rapidly growing health profession that combines music and musical experiences. It is utilized to maintain or improve a person's functioning level in a variety of health domains.

Acceptance Rate

67

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

The University of the Pacific's Master of Arts in Music Therapy is a graduate-level program designed for students with an undergraduate degree in music or fields related to music therapy. Students have the option to choose between a 2-year or a 3-year path. These popular and flexible learning options start with strong basic musicianship and add specific knowledge and skills to meet the requirements of the Certification Board for Music Therapists and the American Music Therapy Association. Graduates enter the field equipped to use music-based interventions in a focused and concentrated manner. 

Acceptance Rate

65.61

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

Duquesne University's degree in Music Therapy provides innovative and comprehensive training that connects the students' passion for music with their desire to improve the health and wellbeing of patients. The program is their gateway to a career as board-certified music therapist. Providing a vibrant and supportive learning community that encourages self-discovery, creative thinking, and individualized growth. Graduates have been active and ambitious professionals serving patients across the United States.

Acceptance Rate

74.33

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

Berklee College of Music's Music Therapy major provides students an opportunity to learn to design music-based experiences to address the patient. Preparing them to be leaders in the field of Music Therapy. The institution is highly committed to providing learning experiences that allow students to explore a holistic view of the use of music in health, healing, and wellbeing. Music Therapists work in a variety of clinical, educational, and/or community-based settings. 

Acceptance Rate

51.44

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

The University of Evansville's major in Music Therapy is an established profession that combines a passion for music with the ability to address physical, emotional, social, and cognitive needs. The curriculum includes in-depth methodology and applications. Offering courses in psychology and behavioral sciences, and music academic and performance study. Students are highly equipped with the fundamentals to aid them in pursuing a career in the area.

Acceptance Rate

70.67

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania's Music Therapy students learn to provide therapeutic musical experiences. They receive dedicated, individualized instruction and mentorship from highly skilled faculty members. Students develop the required musicianship and clinical skills to provide therapeutic support to people of all ages. The program provides the knowledge, skills, and abilities to work as a professional in healthcare, education, and community settings.

Acceptance Rate

70.65

Student to Faculty Ratio

21:1

Appalachian State University's Music Therapy degree provides skilled musicians with opportunities to develop expertise to use music within a therapeutic relationship. The faculty includes experts with diverse clinical and research emphases. Numerous graduates pass the national board certification exam and achieve job placement in music therapy. Alumni are leaders in professional health care, special education, and private practice setting. 

Acceptance Rate

76.81

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

Molloy College's Master of Science degree in Music Therapy is designed to prepare students for advanced clinical practice in music therapy. It is intended for professional music therapists as well as musicians with degrees in related fields. Completing the degree fulfills the educational requirements for a New York State license in creative arts therapy. The program is the first and only music therapy graduate program on Long Island.

Acceptance Rate

77.96

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

Concordia University-Wisconsin's Music Therapy degree gives students the chance to concurrently work towards a music therapy equivalency at Alverno College while studying music at Cordia. The programs combine the individual's love for music and utilize their talent to benefit others. It is the musical career for those who feel called to serve in a different capacity. Allowing students to focus on the specific courses required to become a board-certified music therapist.

Acceptance Rate

64.13

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

Drexel University's Master of Arts in Music Therapy & Counseling integrates advanced music therapy and general counseling coursework with hands-on clinical experience and research opportunities. The program prepares students for a variety of career paths in the music therapy profession. The faculty is deeply dedicated and has a knowledgeable music background. It is designed for students who have a Bachelor's degree in another field and are seeking the required education and clinical experience to become a board-certified music therapist.

Acceptance Rate

74.7

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

Baldwin-Wallace College's major in Music Therapy helps students acquire the knowledge, skills, technical competencies, and professional perspective to prepare for a meaningful career. The program will include comprehensive, rigorous coursework, and practical experiences. It conforms to the guidelines set by the American Music Therapy Association. Small classes, personalized attention, and faculty mentoring are at the forefront of the program. The faculty are established professionals with real-world experience, impressive credentials, and networking connections.

Acceptance Rate

72.69

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

Queens University of Charlotte's degree in Music Therapy trains students to become versatile musicians and develop strong clinical therapeutic skills. Students master music therapy techniques that address a client's wellbeing. They will graduate with a degree in a field that is a growing profession worldwide. As a music therapy major, they will also complete a minor in psychology.

Acceptance Rate

65.22

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

Drury University's Music Therapy major is designed for students who wish to be employed as music therapists in a variety of clinical settings. Completing the program allows students to be eligible to take the exam given by the Certification Board for Music Therapists. The program is a clinical and evidence-based use of music interventions to accomplish individualized goals. It utilizes music and music-related strategies to aid people who need it.

Acceptance Rate

64.42

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

SUNY at Fredonia's Music Therapy degree combines the student's passion for music and drive to help others improve, maintain, and restore health and well-being in their lives. Providing professional training for entry-level employment in all areas of music therapy. The curriculum is based on the concept that a music therapist is a proficient musician who integrates a broad range of psychological and clinical skills into practical work. Music Therapists have the opportunity to advance and deepen their music therapy skills and knowledge.

Acceptance Rate

71.12

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

Edgewood College's Music Department is committed to developing the whole person in pursuit of musical artistry. Offering degrees in Music, Music Education, Music Media and Production, Music Promotion and Industry, and Pre-Music Therapy. Providing individualized attention in small-sized classes and offer students numerous performance opportunities throughout the year. The department's faculty are accomplished musical educators committed to affirming the College's mission to prepare students to lead meaningful personal and professional lives.

Acceptance Rate

72.37

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

Music Therapy Degrees

For students considering earning a degree in music therapy, it is vital to your success to understand the span of degree options.  Below you will find a summary of undergraduate and graduate degree programs.  We have organized this resource page to ensure prospective students can quickly reach out to accredited colleges and universities in a centralized fashion.

To be efficient with your time, collect information from a number of schools offering degrees in music therapy before narrowing your list.  Degree programs in music therapy include bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctorate degrees.

Music Therapy Bachelor's Degrees

A bachelor degree in music therapy is a 4-year program for full-time students and longer for part-time students.  Degrees are conferred as either a Bachelor of Science (BS) or a Bachelor of Arts (BA) depending on the program emphasis.  Bachelor degrees in music therapy fuse liberal arts education such as history, philosophy, communications, and sociology with core curriculum.

Core classes in music therapy programs will vary from college to college but will include classes such as: applied music, classical piano, guitar repertory, classical voice, sightseeing, music theory, world music cultures, technology in music, conducting, drumming, non-verbal communication, psychology, music recreation techniques, psychology of music, developmental psychology, abnormal psychology, human exceptionality, music in special education, and anatomy.  At the completion of the program, students in the BA and BS program will have a capstone course and internship.

Music Therapy Master's Degrees

Master’s degrees in music therapy are generally 2 year programs for full-time students.  Graduate degrees at this level are conferred as a Master of Arts (MA), Master of Music (MM), or Master of Science (MS).  Programs focus on developing deep insights into music therapy with an emphasis on theory and research.

Courses in a master’s degree program will include variations of the following: music in counseling, music in special education, applied music assessment, medical music therapy, advanced therapy, grant writing, behavior health counseling, psychology of music, classical guitar, behavior modification, technology in therapy, nonverbal communication, perception of music, drumming, ensembles, guitar repertoire, descriptive research, and arts in medicine.  Master degrees will frequently culminate with a thesis project intended to advance the field of study.

Music Therapy PhD Degree

Doctorate degrees in music therapy are conferred as a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) at most universities.  PhD programs will take 3-5 years to complete on a full-time basis and longer for part-time students to complete.  Research-latent doctorate programs are constructed to extend the knowledge in the field through research and residency programs.

The doctorate degree prepares students for a career in teaching, research, or jobs in industry of all types.  Students can find themselves working for small non-profit organizations, public institutions, or government agencies in leadership or administrative positions.

Music Therapy Requirements

Students interested in music therapy must obtain at least a bachelor's degree, though master's and doctoral degrees are also available and preferred. Equivalency programs are also available for bachelor's degree holders in majors that are not music therapy. Such programs will allow the individual to fill in missing courses in order to become a music therapist.

Music therapy combines knowledge of music and therapy as well as other fields. Once a program is completed a supervised internship is required, followed by the passing of the national certification exam.

Students enrolled in a music therapy program will learn about music in a variety of forms combined with various therapies used to rehabilitate patients and the various mental or physical issues that may be treated through such therapies. Students will be exposed to a variety of instruments, developing a nominal understanding of how they are used.

Additionally, the ability to compose and to teach notation and composition will be explored. Courses in psychology and physiology will also be explored, providing the therapist with the knowledge necessary to treat patients. Specialized courses in the application of music therapy will also be provided, both through theory and observed practice. Courses that may be offered in a music therapy curriculum:

  • Music Theory
  • Music History
  • Composition
  • Foundations of Therapy
  • Methods of Therapy
  • Psychology

Employment & Music Therapy Careers

Job opportunities are expected to grow for music therapists over the coming years. As various therapies begin to become more commonplace and the developmental role of music therapy expands there will be an increased need for qualified individuals. Music therapists work in clinics, hospitals, at homes or in special offices.

A music therapist's work begins prior to encountering the patient through research and review of the patient's profile. A music therapist must be engaging and patient, and willing to work with patients of all ages.

The average salary of a music therapist is approximately $58,000 per year. Salary is based on experience and education, with professional who may demonstrate success over time earning more. Higher levels of education also allow for higher pay rates.

Resources for Music Therapists

Individuals interested in music therapy may also be interested in art therapy, dance therapy, or occupational therapy.  The AMTAS and MTA are national associations for music therapists providing unique member benefits and professional growth opportunities.

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