Ashley Said:

Music Therapy!!?

We Answered:

Of course it's possible, but you need to decide what you really want to do. If you want to be a music therapist, you will need a bachelor's degree (preferably a master's) specifically in music therapy, plus board-certification. You could minor in psychology or probably get a dual degree in some MT programs. If you don't want to be a music therapist but are just interested in it, you will have to go through a lot of extra work for the degree, including a 6-month internship & proficiency exams in piano, voice & guitar at a minimum. If you get a degree in psychology & decide to do MT later, you will probably be able to apply some of your classes to the MT degree, but this is at the discretion of each school.

Earl Said:

Can you get a bachelors in music therapy online?

We Answered:

I interviewed a music therapist for my psychology podcast - Dr. Kamile Geist. You might find her interview worth listening to. Also, there are several links on my website that might be helpful, including a link to her website. You might try emailing her with this question. Here's the link to the interview:

http://www.thepsychfiles.com/2008/05/10/…

Hope this helps,

Michael
Host of The Psych Files podcast
Subscribe in iTunes
http://www.thepsychfiles.com

Caroline Said:

Can I be a music teacher with a degree in music therapy?

We Answered:

Yes. Your state or school district should have or refer you to an Alternative Certification Program. This allows college graduates without education degrees to get the training to become teachers.

Clayton Said:

I'm thinking about going to school for music therapy. What is the minimum degree requirement??

We Answered:

It depends on where you live. I think it is the norm right now to have a master's degree in New York, & most likely other states will follow. That's the trend in most healthcare professions these days. Right now the minimum degree requirement in music therapy is a bachelor's, but if you think you'll be doing it for a long time then I recommend getting a master's. Good luck!

Jennie Said:

do you have to be really good at playing music and play a variety of instruments for a music therapy degree?

We Answered:

No. You do not need to know how to play more than one instrument, but it would be better if you did.

In your role as a music therapist, it helps to be able to recognize the different challenges presented by various instruments. I highly suggest you study as many instruments as possible, and get a good handle on music theory as well.

This is a perfect time for you to get involved with as many musicians as you can because anything you learn now can be applied for years to come. Starting early will help put you ahead in your pursuit of music therapy as a career.

Good luck!

Kabum (instructor/mt)