Music Therapists


Health Science > Music Therapists > At a Glance
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Music Therapists

Music Therapists - At a Glance

Music therapists plan and carry out treatments and activities for patients. They use music to help patients improve their physical, mental, and emotional health.

Quick Facts:  Music Therapists
WagesEarn $60,766 per year
EmploymentSmall occupation
10 Year GrowthAverage growth
Annual OpeningsVery few

Preparation 

A music therapist typically needs to:

  • have a high school diploma or equivalent
  • complete at least a bachelor's degree in music therapy or a degree equivalency program in music therapy

Working Conditions 

In a typical work setting, music therapists:

  • Have a high level of contact with others. They talk with patients and family members throughout the day.
  • Always work indoors.
  • Must be somewhat accurate when diagnosing patients.
  • Schedules are typically flexible. Therapists can set appointments according to their wishes. However, they often meet patients in the evenings to accommodate their schedules.

Wages 

In Illinois, music therapists earn a median wage of $60,766 per year.

$0 $50 $100 $150 $200
Illinois

$ amounts are in thousands of dollars.

Employment and Outlook 

In Illinois, 742 music therapists work in this small occupation.

LocationEmployment10 Year GrowthAnnual Openings
Illinois742
Small
8%
Average
57
Very few
Source: Illinois Career Information System (CIS) brought to you by Illinois Department of Employment Security.