The Master of Music, Plan B, Music Therapy Specialization is intended to provide Board-Certified Music Therapists with advanced training in clinical skills and research. Our curriculum specializes in neuroscience and evidence-based music therapy to improve sensorimotor, speech and language, and cognitive function in children and adults with disabilities. Specifically, the study of music therapy is designed to prepare music therapists for advanced clinical work in music therapy, as music therapy supervisors, administrators, and for teaching positions at the college or university level.
Two master’s curriculum tracks are offered: the first is a thesis program of 30 credit hours (Plan A) designed to provide students with the opportunity to complete a substantial research project. The second track is a 32-hour program (Plan B) that requires, in lieu of a thesis, additional coursework in music therapy, a final project, and a common final exam. Either program prepares the student to pursue doctoral study. Our academic curricula meet the standards of the American Music Therapy Association and the National Association of Schools of Music.
Applicants are expected to be Board-Certified Music Therapists (or eligible to sit for the exam) and demonstrate excellent musicianship and interpersonal skills.
The Master of Music, Plan B, Music Therapy Specialization is offered on-campus or online.
Program-level Learning Objectives
Students who earn the degree will demonstrate advanced learning in clinical practice, research, and teaching. Specific outcomes include:
- Identify theoretical constructs from music therapy and related fields that underlie various clinical practices.
- Define a variety of philosophies, approaches, and/or theories in music therapy.
- Describe research according to ethical principles in a variety of methodologies to sufficiently address meaningful research questions in music therapy.
- Implement a diverse and equitable approach to music therapy practice.
Admission
For information about the admissions processes to the Graduate School and School of Music, Theatre, and Dance, please visit our website.
Effective Fall 2021
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| MU 543 | Intro to Applied Music Research Methods | 3 |
| MU 545 | Composition and Improvisation--Music Therapy | 3 |
| MU 648 | Neuroscience/Music Foundations in Therapy | 3 |
| MU 649 | Advanced Practice in Music Therapy | 3 |
| MU 686 | Music Therapy Practicum | 3 |
| BMS/EDCO/EDRM/PSY/NB Electives 1 | 11 | |
| Music Electives 1 | 6 | |
| Program Total Credits: | 32 | |
A minimum of 32 credits are required to complete this program.
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Specific courses will be approved by the student’s graduate committee. Students may be required to take additional course work as determined by diagnostic examination and/or their graduate committee.