Music Therapy
Do you want to harness the power of music to help people live healthier lives? Music therapy is used for everything from helping premature babies grow strong to unlocking memories for older adults with dementia. As one of the oldest accredited music therapy programs in the United States, Alverno College has been a pioneer in this growing and rewarding field for decades.
In the classroom
You'll begin your music therapy courses, led by board-certified, practicing music therapists, during your freshman year. You'll learn the psychology of music; human biology; guitar, piano, percussion and vocal techniques; music technology; and more.
We curate learning to meet your individual needs, connect you with people in the field and help you set personal goals. You are not just a student to us — you are the future of music therapy and a lifetime member of our community.
The Alverno music therapy bachelor's degree program has been accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music since 1942 and is approved to offer music therapy through the American Music Therapy Association.
Beyond the classroom
You’ll start your clinical work during your freshman year and learn to apply your skills alongside board-certified music therapists at hospitals, hospices, social service agencies or private practice sites. Plus, Alverno’s own Music Therapy Clinic will give you additional practice working with clients on campus. All of this will prepare you for your culminating clinical experience: your final six-month internship working with the population of your choice.
Our students are also active members of the Alverno Music Therapy Student Organization and are involved in national and regional organizations for music therapy students, mentored by recognized leaders in the profession.
Looking for more opportunities to practice and showcase your musical skills? Join Alverno Choir, Nova A Cappella, Flute Choir, Guitar Ensemble and/or Instrumental Chamber Ensemble.
Music Therapy Quick Links
— Grace, music therapy majorAlverno’s focus on self-analysis has made me a more reflective individual. This has transformed how I live my life, how I interact with my peers professionally and personally, how I approach a new piece of music, and how I observe a music therapy clinical experience. Through detailed and meaningful feedback, Alverno pushes you to go deeper and to investigate both out of curiosity and for further scholarship.
Music Therapy + The Alverno Difference
Alverno’s music therapy graduates are exceptionally well-prepared — graduates have an almost 100 percent pass rate on the national board certification exam, and 100 percent are employed within three months of graduation.
At Alverno, you'll find an empowering, supportive environment that helps you achieve your best. Employers are often impressed by Alverno graduates’ ability to answer questions thoughtfully, think critically, synthesize information and integrate diverse perspectives — all essential skills in music therapy.
Instead of letter grades, we focus on your personal development and real-world skills — equipping you with the communication, critical thinking and problem-solving skills you need to thrive. Our learning approach is centered around the 8 Abilities, which will set you apart from the crowd.
Licensure
After you complete your undergraduate degree, you’ll be eligible to take the national board exam to earn the Music Therapy Board Certification (MT-BC) credential. If you plan to work in private practice in Wisconsin, it’s also recommended that you register with the Wisconsin Department of Regulations and Licensing (other state requirements might vary). Your program faculty will walk you through the process.
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