Current Students
Undergraduate
Graduate
Nonmajors

Music Therapy Curricular Requirements

• General Information
• Admissions
• Preparing for the Major
• Financial Aid
• BM in Music Therapy (Performance Track) Course Checklist
• BM in Music Therapy (Clinical Track) Course Checklist

General Information

Undergraduate students interested in a career in music therapy work toward a Bachelor of Music degree within the School of Music. During the first two years of education, coursework is very similar to that of music education and music performance students. Fundamental courses in music theory, lessons on a major instrument, and general education courses make up the majority of classes in the freshman and sophomore year. However, students are encouraged to take Orientation to Music Therapy (25:087) in the freshman year as an introduction to the profession. Students must receive a grade of "C+" or higher in this class in order to qualify for other music therapy courses.

The majority of core courses in music therapy are taken in the junior and senior years. Over a period of two years, students gradually move from observation of music therapy sessions to direct, supervised clinical experiences with clients in a variety of treatment settings. After academic coursework has been fulfilled, students complete a six month internship at one of several hundred approved clinical sites off campus.

Students who transfer to Iowa from other schools can usually apply portions of completed coursework toward their undergraduate degree at Iowa. First, the Office of the Registrar determines which courses are transferable to The University of Iowa. Then, transcripts are analyzed to determine applicability to the music therapy program. For example, music therapy students must take a course in abnormal psychology. If abnormal psychology has been taken at another school, and subsequently has been accepted by the Office of the Registrar, those credits will apply toward graduation.

Back to Top

Admission

Liberal Arts requirements emphasize social, behavioral, and natural sciences which are important in allied health professions such as music therapy.

Undergraduate students must be admitted to the School of Music as well as the University. For information on admission, fees, and university scholarships, contact the Admissions Office, 108 Calvin Hall, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, phone (319) 335-1549. For information about School of Music admissions, music scholarships, and auditions contact the Academic Office of the School of Music at 1011 Voxman Music Building, phone (319) 335-1604.

Preparing For The Major

In addition to taking college preparatory courses in high school, students interested in music therapy can benefit from volunteer or part-time work in nursing homes, developmental centers, hospitals, summer camps, or any programs that provide experience in working with people, and particularly people with disabilities.

Financial Aid

Students interested in financial aid should explore options available through the School of Music and the University. In addition to scholarships and loans, some students take advantage of the University's work-study program. Many students in music therapy have gained professional experience as well as financial support by working part time for local health care and social service agencies.

Back to Top