Music Therapy

The School of Music offers a BM in Music Therapy, as well as a MME and a PhD.  The undergraduate music therapy program provides full preparation for entry into the profession. Graduates are prepared for general music therapy practice in a variety of settings. The KU music therapy program is approved by the American Music Therapy Association. Individuals who complete the program are eligible to take the national music therapy certification board examination. 

 

Music Therapy Department website

Sample of Related Skills

• Perform capably and professionally as music educators and therapists 
  
   
• Use contemporary techniques, knowledge, and skills to solve problems in classrooms or clinical settings  
  
   
• Communicate the expanding and deepening understanding of music therapy as a basic human endeavor 
  
   
• Help society define and respond to its educational responsibilities and challenges 
  
   
• Assume leadership positions in schools, districts, institutions, communities, and the profession 
  
   
• Demonstrate mastery of aural skills including sight-reading and dictation 
  
   
• Implement music and non-music methods and techniques that effectively assist clients in modifying responses in assessment, treatment, session, and termination plans 

Popular Career Paths

Clinical: Typically involves utilizing music therapy techniques in private practice, hospitals, community mental health centers, and pain and stress management facilities.

Special Education: Typically involves utilizing music therapy in a school setting.

Research: Involves researching the practice and methods of music therapy interventions. 

Jobs to Consider

• Activities Therapist/Director
• Adjunctive Therapy Coordinator
• Creative Arts Therapist
• Expressive Arts Therapist
• Music Therapist
• Professor of Music Therapy
• Recreational Therapist

Places to Seek Employment

• Community Mental Health Centers
• Correctional Facilities
• Day Treatment Centers
• Drug and Alcohol Programs
• General and State Hospitals
• Geriatric Care Programs
• Home Health Programs
• Hospice Programs
• Medical Clinics
• Pain and Stress Management Centers
• Physical Rehabilitation Centers
• Prevention and Wellness Programs
• Private Practices and Agencies
• Public and Private Schools
• Research Programs
• Residential Facilities
• Special Education Programs
• Universities and Colleges 

Job and Internship Search Resources

• The Certification Board for Music Therapists - information regarding certification/licensure 
  
   
• American Music Therapy Association - career information, professional requirements, schools that offer music therapy, internship and job opportunities  
  
   
• Kansas City Metro Music Therapists - professional and social networking group within the field of music therapy. Provides peer support, continuing education, increasing awareness of music therapy, and community service opportunities 
  
   
• National Association of Schools of Music - an association of approximately 630 schools of music. It is the national accrediting agency for music and music-related disciplines