Warning: include(/includes1/header.php): failed to open stream: No such file or directory in E:\HostingSpaces\skillga1\skillgapfinder.com\wwwroot\course-stream.php on line 40
Warning: include(): Failed opening '/includes1/header.php' for inclusion (include_path='.;C:\Program Files (x86)\PHP\v7.1\pear') in E:\HostingSpaces\skillga1\skillgapfinder.com\wwwroot\course-stream.php on line 40
Course: Music Therapy
Music therapy majors learn how to use music to help people meet a variety of goals, from making friends to relieving stress to dealing with physical pain. Music therapists often use music to help people with mental illnesses such as major depression or eating disorders. Some therapists use it to help women relax while giving birth.
If you choose this major, you'll study assessment, the art and science of determining a patient's needs. You'll also learn how to design a program of music therapy treatment that meets those needs. These programs might include learning to play an instrument or simply listening to music.
Students of music therapy learn how to use music as therapy to help patients who are ill or in pain or who have disabilities. Classes cover topics such as music theory and performance, psychology, and human growth and development.
Did You Know?
Scientists are finding that when music is used along with pain medication, patients don't need to take as much medicine.
Are You Ready To...?
- Spend long hours practicing your instrument and performing
- Learn to keep records on patients and treatment programs
- Work with patients individually and in groups
- Work with patients of all ages and cultural and ethnic backgrounds
- Structure musical activities that help patients address their problems
- Learn to work with people who have disabilities
It Helps To Be...
A music lover and skilled musician who is caring, patient, and supportive of other people.
College Checklist
- Are the professors practicing music therapists?
- What kinds of internships will you be able to complete?
- How many and what kinds of opportunities will you have to perform music?
Course Spotlight
After taking a course in clinical practices, you'll complete an internship. This hands-on work will give you a chance to apply what you’ve learned in class and put in the clinical hours you'll need to become a certified music therapist.
You might design music therapy sessions that help autistic children practice socializing and sharing. Or you might work with Alzheimer's patients, designing music therapy sessions that help them recover memory. Whomever you help, you'll gain valuable experience.