Best Schools for Music Therapy

Hey guys, I'm super interested in pursuing a career in music therapy and I want to start on the right foot. Do you guys have any recommendations on which schools offer the best music therapy programs? What factors should I consider while looking at these programs?

When exploring programs for music therapy, you'll want to make sure the institution's program is approved by the American Music Therapy Association (AMTA). This holds the program to certain standards, ensuring you'll receive a solid grounding in music therapy principles and practices.

Berklee College of Music is one school that's well-known for its music therapy program. They offer a Bachelor of Music in Music Therapy, where you can expect to learn about different therapeutic techniques, psychology, and music elements, with various opportunities for hands-on experience.

Another highly regarded program is offered by the University of the Pacific. Their music therapy program is part of the Conservatory of Music and prepares students for work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, schools, and rehabilitation centers.

University of Miami also offers a stellar music therapy program, which emphasizes clinical musicianship, research, and a holistic approach to patient well-being.

Additionally, Colorado State University has a comprehensive music therapy program where students can gain experience through clinical placements in their first year.

Factors you should consider while looking at these schools include the curriculum (does it align with your interests and career goals?), faculty expertise, the opportunities for hands-on experience in the field, the types of music therapy the program emphasizes, and the mobility of the degree (some degrees will allow you to practice in various states, while others may limit you to the state the university is located in).

Also consider the type of support the school provides after graduation—do they offer job placement assistance or have a strong network within the music therapy field? Remember, it's not just about the reputation of the school but also how it supports you in your professional goals.