Music Therapy

The Bachelor of Science in Music Therapy at Slippery Rock University is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for a rewarding career in healthcare and therapeutic settings through the power of music. This program combines rigorous coursework in music, psychology, and health sciences with hands-on clinical training, fostering the development of skilled music therapists capable of improving the quality of life for individuals with a variety of physical, emotional, cognitive, and developmental challenges. Students will engage in intensive studies of music theory, instrumentation, and performance, paired with specialized classes in music therapy methods, human development, and medical terminology to ensure a well-rounded education. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practices and ethical considerations, equipping graduates with the necessary competencies to implement individualized music therapy interventions across diverse populations, including children, adults, and the elderly in hospitals, clinics, schools, and community settings. In addition to classroom instruction, students participate in supervised practicum experiences that provide real-world application of their skills under the guidance of experienced professionals. The program prepares students to sit for national certification exams required for professional practice as music therapists. Graduates of the Music Therapy program at Slippery Rock University are nationally recognized for their competence and compassion, ready to make meaningful contributions to health and wellness through the therapeutic benefits of music. This program is ideal for students passionate about music and dedicated to helping others, offering a unique blend of artistic development and clinical expertise in a supportive academic environment.

Detailed Course Facts

Application deadline Rolling basis Tuition fee Not specified Start date August 2015 Duration full-time 48 months Languages Take an IELTS test

• English

Delivery mode On Campus Educational variant Full-time

Course Content

Requirements for the Major - Credits: 74All prospective music therapy majors must audition with a faculty committee of the Department of Music.

Required Music Courses - Credits: 52

• Applied Major (7 credits)
  (* see footnote)
• Applied Minor (6 credits)
  (* see footnote)
• Ensemble (7 credits)
  (* see footnote)

• MUSI 137 - Functional Guitar for Music Therapy I Credits: 1
• MUSI 138 - Functional Guitar for Music Therapy II Credits: 1
• MUSI 151 - Music Theory and Analysis I Credits: 2
• MUSI 154 - Musicianship Skills I Credits: 1
• MUSI 247 - Percussion Methods Credits: 1
• MUSI 253 - Music Theory and Analysis II Credits: 2
• MUSI 254 - Music Theory and Analysis III Credits: 2
• MUSI 255 - Music Theory and Analysis IV Credits: 2
• MUSI 256 - Musicianship Skills II Credits: 1
• MUSI 257 - Musicianship Skills III Credits: 1
• MUSI 258 - Musicianship Skills IV Credits: 1
• MUSI 273 - History of Music I Credits: 3
• MUSI 332 - Vocal Conducting Credits: 1
• MUSI 333 - Instrumental Conducting Credits: 1
• MUSI 350 - Computer Technology in Music Credits: 2
• MUSI 351 - Arranging & Orchestration Credits: 2
• MUSI 360 - Keyboard Improvisation Credits: 1
• MUSI 361 - Instrumental Improvisation Credits: 1
• MUSI 373 - History of Music II Credits: 3
• MUSI 473 - History of Music III Credits: 3

Required Music Therapy Courses - Credits: 22

• MUSI 127 - Orientation to Music Therapy Credits: 1
• MUSI 199 - Fundamental Skills in Music Therapy Credits: 1
• MUSI 228 - Therapeutic Musical Strategies Credits: 1
• MUSI 236 - Music Therapy Assessment, Measurement and Evaluation Credits: 2
• MUSI 312 - Music Therapy for Children Credits: 3
• MUSI 327 - Psychology of Music Credits: 3
• MUSI 330 - Clinical Integration Credits: 0/1
• MUSI 428 - Music Therapy Advanced Topics: Supervision, Ethics, and Issues of Diversity Credits: 3
• MUSI 433 - Clinical Integration Credits: 1

• six semesters of clinical experience are required

• MUSI 440 - Music Therapy for Adult Clients Credits: 3
• MUSI 450 - Music Therapy Internship Credits: Up to 12

Other Courses Required to Acquire Professional Competencies the American Music Therapy Association

3 credits from SASW, PSYC 100 or 105, 276, and 3 additional credits of psychology.

• BIOL 216 - Anatomy and Physiology/Lab Credits: 3

or

• BIOL 217 - Anatomy and Physiology/Lab Credits: 3

Footnote

* See chairperson of Department of Music for an explanation of these requirements.

Requirements

Slippery Rock University has a strong commitment to student success, and we thoroughly research the academic background of the students who tend to succeed at SRU. We use this information to establish admission guidelines for first year students (new freshmen). We are seeking students who have attained at least a 3.0 GPA at the time of admission, have demonstrated proficiency in college preparatory coursework, and who have average to above average scores on the SAT or ACT. We will accept either test and use the best scores available. Offers of admission for new freshmen from high school may be made as soon as August following their junior year in high school. High school admitted students are required to submit proof of high school graduation in the form of Official Transcripts upon high school graduation.

In order to apply for admission, the following credentials are required:

• Official High School Transcripts, including a 12th Grade class schedule if applicable
• SAT or ACT Scores
• $30.00 application fee

WAIT LIST: Applicants who do not meet the admission guidelines are still encouraged to apply for admission if they are close to our admission guidelines. Such applicants may be placed on a wait list for admission consideration. Students who are placed on a wait list need to understand it is not the same as being denied admission. Wait list status simply means that an applicant's credentials may require a closer review beyond just the quantitative numbers. Offers of admission will be made to wait listed applicants on regular intervals.

Wait listed applicants should strive to improve their grades and/or test scores and re-submit them to the Office of Admissions as soon as is practical after the next marking period or re-test. Periodic review of the wait list will likely begin in November and offers of admission made on a rolling basis. Our goal is to have most of the wait list offers of admission made in March or April. A final round of wait list offers may be made in mid-May on a space available basis. We encourage students to submit additional information if it improves the academic record.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Alumni Study Travel Fund

  Scholarships for students who are already attending the University of Reading.

• Amsterdam Merit Scholarships

  The University of Amsterdam aims to attract the world’s brightest students to its international classrooms. Outstanding students from outside the European Economic Area can apply for an Amsterdam Merit Scholarship.

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than Slippery Rock University.

The Bachelor of Science in Music Therapy at Slippery Rock University is designed to prepare students for certification as music therapists and to provide a comprehensive education in both music and healthcare. The program combines coursework in music theory, music performance, psychology, and healthcare principles, integrated with clinical training to develop students’ therapeutic skills. Students gain practical experience through internships and practicum placements in various healthcare settings, such as hospitals, mental health facilities, and community programs. The curriculum emphasizes the development of clinical competencies, musical proficiency, and an understanding of diverse patient populations and therapeutic techniques. Faculty members in the program are experienced music therapists and educators committed to mentoring students and fostering professional growth. The program aims to prepare graduates to pass the national certification exam administered by the Certification Board for Music Therapists (CBMT). Admission requirements typically include a strong background in music performance or theory, developmental and psychological coursework, and audition, along with application materials. Students also benefit from access to the university’s state-of-the-art facilities, including music labs and therapy clinics. The program encourages active participation in research, professional organizations, and community outreach, promoting a well-rounded educational experience that prepares students for diverse careers in healthcare and community service. Graduates of the program are equipped to work in hospitals, schools, mental health clinics, rehabilitation centers, and private practices, helping individuals improve their quality of life using music-based interventions. The university offers support services, career counseling, and opportunities for continuing education to ensure graduates' success in their professional paths. The program duration typically spans four years, culminating in a Bachelor of Science degree, with options for specialization or advanced study in related fields.