how to become a music therapist

var mce_validator = $("#mc-embedded-subscribe-form").validate(options); setTimeout('mce_preload_check();', 250); function(){ Graduates with a degree in teaching, music, occupational therapy, nursing, psychology or a relevant allied health field can be considered for postgraduate degrees if they possess an appropriate level of musical experience and practice on a particular instrument. function(){ Here is a roundup of the steps you need to take to become a music therapist. fields[i] = this; var input_id = '#mc_embed_signup'; input_id = '#mce-'+fnames[index]; } else if (ftypes[index]=='date'){ Here is a list of schools offering music therapy degree programs in the United States and Canada: How should I prepare for a music therapy degree program? } else { Piano, guitar, and vocal proficiency are expected and are the most frequently used in therapy. var validatorLoaded=jQuery("#fake-form").validate({}); Basically, music makes it easier for patients to feel better, therefore promoting the body’s natural way of healing itself. There are a variety of educational paths toward a career in music therapy. return; if (index== -1){ In most cases, they learn to play their instrument of specialization early in childhood and continue their education in post-secondary studies. index = -1; jQuery(document).ready( function($) { } else if ( fields[0].value=='' && fields[1].value=='' && (fields[2].value=='' || (bday && fields[2].value==1970) ) ){ msg = resp.msg; } Take the free CareerExplorer career test To become a music therapist you usually have to complete a degree followed by a postgraduate qualification in music therapy. msg = resp.msg; } var script = document.createElement('script'); Are music therapists happy with their careers. [CDATA[ If you know you want to become a music therapist right out of high school, and you attend a college or university with a music therapy program, it will most likely take you 4 to 5 years to complete your training. A high level of musicianship is required and an approved postgraduate MA training in music therapy must then be undertaken. Our vision is to ensure access to safe, effective music therapy services for all. Learn how to read and write music quickly so you don't waste time trying to figure out songs during your sessions. mce_init_form(); At minimum, a Bachelor’s Degree is required, but there are graduate degrees available too. if ( fields[0].value.length != 3 || fields[1].value.length!=3 || fields[2].value.length!=4 ){ ', type: 'GET', dataType: 'json', contentType: "application/json; charset=utf-8", We've determined that 54.2% of board certified music therapists have a bachelor's degree. More women than men tend to be music therapists, and most are self-employed professionals. bday = true; } These degree programs require completion of courses in the areas of both music and therapy, as well as courses in music therapy. $('#mce-'+resp.result+'-response').show(); should read about: Still unsure if becoming a music therapist is the right career path? $('#mce_tmp_error_msg').remove(); var fields = new Array(); Q: What kind of education is involved to become a certified music therapist? According to the American Music Therapy Association (AMTA), curriculum for a music therapy degree includes coursework in music therapy, psychology, music, biological, social and behavioral sciences, disabling conditions, and general studies. function(){ } Music therapy is a powerful profession for those seeking to use their artistic talents in a healthcare-related capacity. Almost every state university has the course requirements for a music therapy degree, but you should obviously check first. Here is a list of four things you can do before entering a college or university that well put you ahead. function(){ input_id = '#mce-'+fnames[index]+'-addr1'; } else { index = -1; }); Training to Become a Music Therapist. }); willing to commit to pursuing the career. f = $(input_id).parent().parent().get(0); But it also stresses that those seeking a career in this field have a genuine interest in people and a … After graduation, you need to pass the national exam to become certified as a Music Therapist. var bday = false; if ( fields[0].value=='MM' && fields[1].value=='DD' && (fields[2].value=='YYYY' || (bday && fields[2].value==1970) ) ){ html = ' Abroad, becoming a music therapist involves obtaining a bachelor's degree or higher in music therapy and obtaining certification through the Certification Board for Music Therapists. var txt = 'filled'; i++; } else { In order to become a music therapist, a person must complete a bachelor's degree in music therapy from an accredited college or university. } catch(e){ '; return; $('.phonefield-us','#mc_embed_signup').each( Because music therapy is an allied health profession – like physical therapy, dance therapy, occupational therapy, and others – there is significant training involved in becoming a music therapist. There are two routes to becoming a Registered Music Therapist: Successfully complete an AMTA™ accredited tertiary course and then apply for registration. var options = { errorClass: 'mce_inline_error', errorElement: 'div', onkeyup: function(){}, onfocusout:function(){}, onblur:function(){} }; } In this post, I list several settings where music therapists are currently employed: After your training, a 6 month internship is required. } else { 5 Things to do Before the End of Internship. f = $(input_id).parent().parent().get(0); In Canada, music therapists must also qualify for accreditation, which includes holding a bachelor's degree in music therapy, completing a 1000-hour supervised internship, and proof that they are well-rounded musicians. In Canada, certified music therapists complete a bachelor’s or master’s degree at a university approved by the Canadian Association for Music Therapists. }; If you're interested in becoming a board certified music therapist, one of the first things to consider is how much education you need. In the final two years of study, students are required to complete 1200 hours of fieldwork as an intern in a health or education-related setting. $('#mce-'+resp.result+'-response').html(msg); Typically, music therapists use music as therapy to work on non-musical goals. err_id = 'mce_tmp_error_msg'; And now, researchers are figuring out just what it is about music that can promote positive change in all types of individuals. } else { The Music Therapy Degree this.value = 'filled'; } else { var i = 0; } this.value = ''; var index = -1; A: In actuality, education as a music therapist begins early in life, when a person begins learning a musical instrument or taking singing lessons. head.appendChild(script); Here are some mock interview questions to help you prepare: // '+msg+'