To work as a music therapist, you typically need to:

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

Education after high school

You must have a bachelor's degree in music therapy or a degree equivalency program in music therapy for this occupation.

As an undergraduate student, you take courses in several areas of music. Courses include music history and applied music, where you concentrate on one or more instruments or singing. You also take courses in psychology, counseling techniques, assessment, and evaluation. Some programs offer courses about working with specific age groups, such as youth or the elderly. Others also offer courses about specific conditions, such as developmental disabilities or mental illness. As an undergraduate student you also do field work in facilities that serve individuals with special needs.

Many schools offer graduate degrees in music therapy. Typically they take two to five years to complete after you receive a bachelor's degree. People with graduate degrees in music therapy may become administrators or professors.

On-the-job training

As an undergraduate student you must complete a practicum. This means you observe music therapists as they work with patients. You also create treatment plans, write reports, and eventually participate in therapy sessions. Professional music therapists supervise your work closely. You may do your practicum at a mental health clinic, nursing home, school, or other organization.

Through a practicum, you learn firsthand what it is like to be a music therapist. You learn to apply your course work to real-life situations. A practicum also gives you experience that you can use to apply for jobs after you receive your bachelor's degree.