music therapy phd

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Music Therapy PhD

Advance your scholarship and establish clinical competence with a Music Therapy PhD in Boyer College of Music and Dance. Immerse yourself in quantitative and qualitative research models, and make significant contributions to the field in both research and theory. Led by world-renowned music therapists , Temple’s Music Therapy PhD is recognized as the first of its kind in the U.S.

Study advanced areas of Music Medicine and Music Psychotherapy, and acquire focused expertise by specializing in a particular client population, methodology or research paradigm. The curriculum is grounded in advanced music therapy courses complemented by studies of music, research and related health disciplines. Culminating events for doctoral students include a comprehensive examination, as well as a final dissertation and defense.  

This doctoral degree program emphasizes proficiency in teaching higher education and clinical supervision. Graduates typically become professors, practitioners, researchers or supervisors in healthcare settings.

Classes & Curriculum

The Music Therapy PhD curriculum includes

• Advanced Research Methods in Music Therapy,
• Research in Music Medicine,
• Research in Music Psychotherapy  and
• Theory Development in Music Therapy.

Learn more about the Music Therapy PhD coursework.

Intensive Learning Retreats & Online Instruction

Music Therapy courses are offered through various combinations of intensive learning retreats and online instruction via the Canvas program. The amount of time spent in class versus online varies according to the content and objectives of each course. Some courses require the full 12 to 13 hours per credit in class time, while others require less in-class time with more instructional time online. Two intensive retreats are offered each semester. Each retreat lasts from eight to 10 days, but you will only attend those days on which your classes meet.

Music Therapy PhD at Temple University, Japan Campus

International students can complete a Music Therapy PhD with courses taught in English at Temple’s campus in Tokyo, Japan. Master’s courses in advanced research and clinical practice, including medical music therapy and music psychotherapy, as well as courses on supervision and ethics are offered. Coursework is structured to accommodate the schedules of working music therapists. Classes take place during during a one- to two-week period during the spring or summer, accompanied by online learning throughout the year. Contact Wendy Magee, the PhD program director, at [email protected] for more information.

Learn more about the PhD in Music Therapy at Temple University Japan .

Tuition & Fees

In keeping with Temple’s commitment to access and affordability, this Doctor of Philosophy offers a competitive level of tuition with multiple opportunities for financial support.

Tuition rates are set annually by the university and are affected by multiple factors, including program degree level (undergraduate or graduate), course load (full- or part-time), in-state or out-of-state residency, and more. These tuition costs apply to the 2024–2025 academic year.

Pennsylvania resident : $1,239.00 per credit Out-of-state : $1,652.00 per credit

You can view the full Cost of Attendance breakdown on the Student Financial Services website .

The coordinator of the Music Therapy PhD serves as the academic advisor for all incoming doctoral students. Your advisor will assist with navigating your program. Once you have completed 30 credits and all preliminary examinations, you can select an advisor in your area of study.

Wendy Magee is the graduate advisor for the Music Therapy PhD. Phone : 215-204-8301​ Email : [email protected]

Reach out to the following staff members regarding questions on Music Therapy programs. 

Wendy Magee is a professor and the coordinator for the Music Therapy PhD. Phone : 215-204-8314 Email :  [email protected]

Helen Shoemark  is the director of the Music Therapy Program. Phone : 215-204-8311 Email :  [email protected]

Alison Reynolds  is the chair of the Department of Music Education and Therapy. Phone : 215-204-1660 Email :  [email protected]

Participating in student groups provides peer support and future professional contacts. There are more than 200 student organizations at Temple University.

• Music Therapy Club raises money for charity organizations and performs community service projects. The club also raises funds to send students to the American Music Therapy Association Mid-Atlantic Conference.
• National Association for Music Education is a conservatory chapter of the national organization of music educators. Semester activities include creating projects, presenting guest speakers and workshops, attending the PMEA All-State conference, participating in outreach activities, and learning to use various online music education resources.
• OwlCappella is a coed a cappella group—one of seven student-run a cappella ensembles on campus—that provides a musical outlet for non-music and music majors alike.

Learn more about clubs and organizations .

The Boyer College of Music and Dance is accredited by the

• American Music Therapy Association ,  
• National Association of Schools of Music ,
• National Association of Schools of Dance and
• Pennsylvania Department of Education .

Additional Program Information

Go back to academics more in music therapy phd.

• Careers & Opportunities
• Doctoral Audition Requirements
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Music Therapy, PhD

Doctor of philosophy.

• Course Delivery 100% Online
• Total Credits 90
• In-State Tuition Per Credit $515.00
• Out of State Tuition Per Credit $681.00

Doctor of Philosophy    

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Music Therapy is an Indiana University degree offered within the Purdue School of Engineering and Technology at IUPUI. The overarching goals of the program are guided by the American Music Therapy Association advanced professional competencies. This degree provides you opportunities to explore the vast ways music can benefit health and well-being while you begin your independent research program. You will also prepare for faculty positions in one of the fastest growing music professions.  

Note that this is an Indiana University degree program offered through the Purdue School of Engineering and Technology at IUPUI.

Degree Requirements

Students in the program declare an area of concentration and can earn their master's degree in music therapy as they complete their PhD requirements. All students complete 90 credit hours, including 18 to 24 hours of dissertation research credits, culminating in an original scholarly contribution to the field of music therapy. Students who have already earned a master’s degree may be able to transfer up to 30 credits into their plan of study.

Requirements are broken down as follows:

• 18 credit hours focused on music therapy advanced competencies
• 9 credit hours in other studies in music
• 12 credit hours in a declared minor
• 6 credit hours in life sciences
• 12 credit hours in electives
• 33 credit hours in research credits/dissertation

Transfer Credits

For applicants who have already completed a master’s degree:

• A transcript review by the graduate committee will determine if any of your credits are applicable to the PhD requirements.  
• If you completed a thesis-based master’s degree, up to 30 credits can be transferred. Specifically, up to 21 credits of graded graduate coursework can be applied and up to 9 credits of appropriate master’s thesis-level research credit can be applied.  
• If the applicant completed a “coursework only” master’s degree, up to 21 credits of graded graduate coursework (equivalent to 500-level or higher) can be applied. 

For applicants without a master’s degree:

• Applicants will be advised to take appropriate coursework and, if applicable, master’s thesis-level research credit that applies toward the PhD in Music Therapy requirements.

To be accepted to this program, you must have:

• Evidence of current board-certification status (MT-BC)
• A minimum of three years (or its equivalent) of clinical practice as a music therapist

To apply to this program, complete an online application that includes:  

• Three letters of recommendation from professionals familiar with your academic, clinical, or research background
• A statement of purpose
• TOEFL or IELTS scores (international students only)  

Application Dates

Faculty profiles.

Find course descriptions with our   Search Schedule of Classes/Courses tool .

Tuition & Fees

Cost for indiana residents, per credit hour.

• Tuition: $515.00

3 Credit Hours

• Tuition: $1545.00

Additional fees will apply.

Cost for Out of State Residents

• Tuition: $681.00
• Tuition: $2043.00

In accordance with Federal Financial Aid requirements, IU has calculated a “Cost of Attendance” for this program based on the most common enrollments from students who are enrolled full time for the academic year. We’re showing you the estimated cost of attendance for the full 2023–24 academic year (fall and spring semesters). Cut these numbers in half to figure out the cost of a single semester. Your actual costs for housing and food, books and supplies, transportation, and personal expenses will vary based on:

• The number of credit hours you take • Whether you’re an Indiana resident • Your personal choices • Your travel habits

Your cost of attendance may differ from these estimates.

If you would like a more detailed estimate of expenses, please use IU's Tuition and Fee Calculator.

IU Tuition & Fee Calculator

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Doctorate in Music Therapy

Further your career with a doctorate in music therapy.

The Colorado State University Ph.D. in Music Therapy emphasizes research and scholarship, as appropriate for the music therapist who aspires to a career in research, college-level teaching, or advanced clinical practice. In this program, you will engage in coursework that will advance your scholarship and help you to reach your professional goals. You will be involved in groundbreaking research, with the opportunity to develop original research in an area of interest.

This program is offered in-person as well as online .

The Ph.D. in Music Therapy is focused on three core areas:

Research Core. You will engage in coursework and collaborative research projects that are focused on advancing research skills. You will also have the opportunity to pursue your own original research.

Music Therapy Clinical Practice Core. You will further your understanding of advanced clinical competencies, with an emphasis in evidence-based practices.

Academic Core . In order to prepare for a future as an educator or supervisor in music therapy, You will engage in coursework focused on teaching and learning in higher education.

Credit requirements:

The CSU Ph.D. in Music Therapy is comprised of 72 credits, of which 30 credits may be accepted from a prior master's degree. Program credits include:

• 12-15 credits in each core area (research, clinical practice, academic) that are selected to prepare the student for future work in an academic, research, or advanced clinical position.
• 15 directed electives, which will be selected with the graduate committee to best meet the student’s needs and career goals. Subjects of study may include, but will not be limited to, neuroscience, music therapy methods, research methods, statistics, teaching methods, and developmental science.
• The program will culminate with a final exam and completion of a substantial piece of original research.

Music Therapy Ph.D. Curriculum (PDF)

Research Opportunities

Colorado State University (CSU) is recognized among doctoral universities with very high research activity, known as “R1” by Carnegie. Our music therapy faculty are not only creating the latest knowledge, they are integrating research into their teaching and clinical practice. Doctoral students at CSU will have mentorship from a primary faculty member, along with a committee of faculty within and outside music therapy.

The music therapy area at CSU includes the Brainwaves Research Lab (BRL) , an interdisciplinary lab focused on understanding neurological aspects of cognition. Doctoral students will have the opportunity to work in the BRL, alongside the lab faculty. The BRL is directed by Dr. Patti Davies, a professor in the Department of Occupational Therapy and a faculty member in the Molecular, Cellular, and Integrative Neuroscience (MCIN) program.

Eligibility

To be eligible for the Ph.D. in music therapy at CSU, professionals must have attained a bachelor's degree in music therapy from a regionally accredited institution (or a bachelor's degree and completion of a music therapy equivalency program) and hold board certification in music therapy. Candidates for doctoral degrees in music therapy  should hold at least three years of full-time clinical experience in music therapy or its equivalent in part-time work.

Ph.D. Application and Interview Information (PDF)

Teaching Assistantships

A limited number of teaching assistantships are available to PhD students in the music therapy program. Please contact the area coordinator about current graduate teaching opportunities.

Blythe LaGasse

• Professor of Music
• Coordinator of Music Therapy

(970) 491-4042

[email protected]

Research Areas: Neuroscience of Music Autism Brainwaves Research Lab

Andrew Knight

• Associate Professor of Music

[email protected]

Research Area: Early Childhood

Lindsey Wilhelm

• Internship Coordinator

(970) 491-0984

[email protected]

Research Areas: Older Adults Self-Care Practices

970-491-8976

[email protected]

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Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Music Education with Music Therapy Emphasis

The Doctor of Philosophy degree is offered in Music Education with Music Therapy Emphasis at the Frost School of Music. The Ph. D. is a research degree requiring 60 credit hours beyond the Master's Degree, or 90 credit hours beyond the Bachelor's Degree. This degree program is designed to prepare students for careers in music therapy-related research, college teaching positions in music therapy, or administrative positions.

Program Requirements

The Doctor of Philosophy degree is offered in Music Education with Music Therapy Emphasis. The Ph.D. is a research degree requiring 60 credit hours beyond the Master's Degree, or 90 credit hours beyond the Bachelor's Degree. This degree program is designed to prepare students for careers in music therapy-related research, college teaching positions in music therapy, or administrative positions.

Enrollment into this specialized program is limited. Acceptance is based on academic record, Graduate Record Examination scores, TOEFL scores (as appropriate), personal suitability, professional recommendations, and demonstrated clinical competency.

Graduate Teaching Assistantships

Graduate teaching assistantships are available to highly qualified candidates. These prestigious awards provide tuition coverage (full or partial) as well as a monthly stipend. Recipients gain valuable professional experience by assisting with teaching, clinical supervision, research, and program administration.

Prior to entering candidacy, students in this program must complete the required coursework, a doctoral research project, and a series of qualifying papers demonstrating the application of fundamental and specialized knowledge relating to music therapy practice, education, or research. To finalize the qualifying process, students must also successfully pass an oral examination. Once students have been accepted to candidacy, they can propose the dissertation. These requirements are uniquely designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge needed to hold future professional positions as leaders, educators, and researchers in the field of music therapy.

The Curriculum

A distinct feature of this doctoral degree program is the allotment of 12 credit hours to courses in “Supporting Area Studies.” Students may devote these credit hours to courses that will enhance their clinical skills, research competencies, or musical abilities. These doctoral-level courses may be completed within the Frost School of Music, as well as many other divisions of the University, including psychology, neuroscience, or educational and psychological studies.

Doctoral students work closely with music therapy faculty for the duration of this rigorous program; thus they gain experience in all aspects of music therapy clinical practice, education, and research. The music therapy faculty are experienced researchers and distinguished educators known internationally for their research and service to the profession. Additionally, students further their musical skills by studying with faculty who perform, compose, and conduct regularly in national and international venues. Finally, doctoral students have the opportunity to conduct research at multiple hospitals and agencies in the greater Miami area, including the world-famous Miller School of Medicine.

The courses that make up the curriculum for the doctoral program are divided into four areas:

Major Area: 27 credit hours

This component of the curriculum places a large emphasis on research skill since one of the main goals of the doctoral program is to prepare students for a career involving independent research. Courses are taught by Music Education and Music Therapy faculty members who are well-established and widely-published experts in music research. The courses required here are typically taken only by doctoral students, which provide the opportunity for upper-level graduate students from various programs to work together and learn from each other, as well as the course instructor. Some of these courses include:

• MED 763 Research Methods in Music
• MED 795 Doctoral Research Project
• MED 830 Dissertation

The dissertation research can be conducted at any number of educational and health care facilities in the Miami area, including the world-famous Miller School of Medicine, and at such facilities and clinics as Holtz Children’s Hospital, the Mailman Center for Child Development, Jackson Behavioral Hospital, Sylvester Cancer Center, and Ryder Trauma Center.

Studies in Music: 9 credit hours

Advance and comprehensive musicianship are expected of all students at the doctoral level. Skills and competencies addressed here may pertain to music performing, theory, and composition, musicology, or conducting. Students can choose from over 50 different performing ensembles that range from traditional symphonic to jazz, to electronic, to salsa. Please consult this website for additional information on performing ensembles .

Faculty members in all areas of the Frost School are recognized as experts in their disciplines and are well-known known for their extensive and award-winning compositions, recordings, and performances. 

NOTE: Students in the Doctor of Philosophy in Music Education with Music Therapy emphasis program who wish to take courses in music theory, are required to take the music theory entrance exam, Parts I and II. This exam helps to determine which courses are most appropriate for the student’s ability level and career aspirations. Students can take this exam at any point during their doctoral career.

Music Therapy Emphasis: 19 credit hours

This portion of the degree curriculum is based on the clinical and research paradigm known as Neurologic Music Therapy (NMT). This model utilizes scientific evidence regarding the influence of music on the human brain and behavior function to treat neurological, developmental, and medical needs. All three members in the Frost School of Music are NMT-trained and have conducted research following the NMT model.

In the first year of the program, students complete two sequential graduate seminars that help to establish a strong scientific basis for NMT practice and generate ideas for independent research.  The first seminar, MED 729 Advanced Music Therapy Practice I, focuses on research examining music, cognition, and affect. In the second seminar, MED 730 Advanced Music Therapy Practice II, students explore research regarding music, speech and language, and sensorimotor functioning. Students must read and discuss research literature, and apply findings to clinical situations.

Additional credit hours in this component of the degree (i.e., 12 hours) are devoted to the student’s Specialty Area. Courses are carefully selected via extensive collaboration between the student and music therapy faculty. Students use these 12 credit hours to establish proficiency in a certain area of research and/or clinical practice. Many times, courses are taken in other areas of the university, such as psychology, neuroscience, or education.

As part of the music therapy emphasis, students also have the opportunity to explore issues relevant to future careers in teaching music therapy and supervising music therapy students in clinical settings.

Ph.D. Research Tools: 12 credits hours

Additional courses in research methods and statistics are typically taken through the Department of Educational and Psychological Studies, in the School of Education.

The curriculum for the Doctor of Philosophy degree meets the standards set forth by the National Association for Schools of Music, the American Music Therapy Association, and the University of Miami.

For more information on this degree program, please contact:

Teresa Lesiuk, Ph.D., MT-BC Program Director, Music Therapy [email protected] 305.284.3650

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Music Therapy Ph.D.

Accelerate your career as a music therapy clinician or educator. Advance your scholarship and reach your professional goals.

As a student in this online Ph.D. program, you will gain knowledge in three core areas:

• Clinical practice : Further your understanding of advanced clinical competencies with an emphasis on evidence-based practices.
• Research : Engage in coursework and collaborative research projects focused on advancing research skills. Develop original research in your area of interest.
• Academic higher education : Participate in courses focused on teaching and learning in a higher education setting.

Study with experienced faculty and researchers

Learn from faculty with a range of backgrounds, areas of focus, and approaches in therapy. Faculty are connected to the community and collaborate with colleagues in human development, music education, early childhood, psychology, gerontology, communication studies, and occupational therapy.

Small class sizes allow for maximum participation and intimate discussions with fellow students and faculty.

Study online, on your time

Online coursework provides flexibility for working professionals. Earn your Ph.D. from a respected, regionally accredited public research university. Balance your academic studies with your career and personal obligations.

Learn more on the Applied Podcast

In this episode, we talk with two faculty members in CSU’s Music Therapy department: Dr. Blythe LaGasse and Dr. Jess Rushing. We learn about the healing power of music, why music therapy works, and how it fits into a holistic healthcare system.

This unique Ph.D. program can help you gain the knowledge to take the next step in your career. After successful completion of the program, you may consider job opportunities such as:

• Director of Clinical Practice
• Clinical Administrator
• Advanced Clinical Practitioner

Blythe LaGasse, Ph.D., MT-BC

Professor of music; music therapy; coordinator of music therapy.

Dr. Blythe LaGasse is coordinator and associate professor of music therapy at Colorado State University. She is director of the online program in music therapy. She has been a music therapist specializing in working with children with autism spectrum disorder for over sixteen years and is an active clinician.

Dr. LaGasse was a faculty trainer for the Neurologic Music Therapy (NMT) Academy for eight years. She holds a certificate of proficiency in DIR/Floortime from the Interdisciplinary Council on Development and Learning. Dr. LaGasse has publications in Frontiers in Integrative Neuroscience, the Journal of Music Therapy, Music Therapy Perspectives, and Music and Medicine. She was the 2016 recipient of the American Music Therapy Association Arthur Flagler Fultz Research grant award and in 2016 she and co-investigator Dr. Erik Johnson were awarded the GRAMMY Foundation grant award.

Dr. LaGasse was the 2015 recipient of the American Music Therapy Association Research Award. She was the 2016-2017 recipient of the College of Liberal Arts Excellence in Teaching Award. She was the Fall 2017 recipient of the CSU Online Innovative Educator Award.

Andrew Knight, Ph.D., MT-BC

Associate professor of music; music therapy.

Dr. Andrew Knight holds a bachelor's degree in percussion performance, with a jazz emphasis, from UW-La Crosse, a music therapy equivalency and master's degree from the University of Minnesota, and a Ph.D. in educational foundations and research from the University of North Dakota (UND).

Dr. Knight has research interests in substance use disorders in adults and early childhood social/emotional developmental issues. He directs the Parkinson's Disease vocal exercise group in collaboration with the Parkinson's Support Group in Larimer County and is a Music Together Within Therapy™ provider. His research has been published in the Journal of Music Therapy and Music Therapy Perspectives , among other journals, and serves as Associate Editor for Book Reviews for JMT. He is the 2017-2019 president of the Midwestern Region (MWR) of the American Music Therapy Association (AMTA), on the AMTA Assembly of Delegates, and has won the MWR and AMTA Service Awards. Along with Dr. Blythe LaGasse and Dr. Alicia Clair, he is a co-editor of the 2018 Introduction to Music Therapy textbook published by AMTA.

Lindsey Wilhelm, Ph.D., MT-BC

Assistant professor of music; music therapy; internship coordinator.

Dr. Wilhelm holds degrees in music therapy from Colorado State University (BM) and the University of Iowa (MA, Ph.D.) and is a Fellow in Neurologic Music Therapy (NMT). A board-certified music therapist since 2007, Dr. Wilhelm has worked with both children and adults in a variety of community, educational, rehabilitative, and medical settings. Her current research areas and interests include music therapy applications for aging adults with hearing loss; students' self-care practices; and music therapy applications for family caregivers.

Jess Rushing, Ph.D.

Assistant professor; music therapy.

Dr. Rushing has worked clinically with all ages from premature infants to end-of-life with considerable experience in medical, private practice, and mental health. Rushing’s research interests include music therapy in acute post-stroke care, music therapy supervision using Self-Determination Theory, and community engagement. In addition to teaching and research, she has previously owned a private practice and supervised the UofL Music Therapy Clinic. She is a Fellow of the National Institute of Infant and Child Medical Music Therapy and has completed training in Neurologic Music Therapy. Dr. Rushing is currently the chair elect of the American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine (ACRM) Arts and Neuroscience Networking Group. She enjoys continuing to be an active clinician.

Laura Beer, Ph.D

Associate professor of music: music therapy.

Dr. Beer has extensive clinical experience as a music therapist, researcher, author, and educator. She has worked as a clinician in a range of settings, with her most recent clinical experience in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and with children who have multiple developmental challenges. She also serves as editor for Music Therapy Perspectives , one of AMTA’s two national peer-reviewed journals. She is committed to creating a more inclusive and social-justice oriented format for clinicians, students, educators, and allied health professionals. She has numerous publications including "Trauma-Informed Music Therapy: Theory and Practice" (co-editor) and "Using Music in Child and Adolescent Psychotherapy," co-written with Jacqueline Birnbaum. Laura lives with her wife Cyndy, three cats, and little dog Gracie, and is humbled every day by their love and support.

The Ph.D. in Music Therapy is comprised of 72 credits, of which 30 credits may be accepted from a prior master's degree.

Clinical Core Courses (15 credits)

• MU 544 – Advanced Techniques in Neurologic Music Therapy (3 cr.)
• MU 545 – Composition in Music Therapy (3 cr.)
• MU 647 – Historical Foundations of Music Therapy (3 cr.)
• MU 648 – Neuroscience Foundation (3 cr.)
• MU 649 – Advanced Practice in Music Therapy (3 cr.)

Research Core Courses (12 credits)

• MU 543 – Advanced Research Methods in Music Therapy (3 cr.)
• MU 743 – Interpretivist Research in Music Therapy (3 cr.)
• MU 744 – Research to Practice (3 cr.)
• MU 698 – Research Seminar (3 cr.)

Academic Core Courses (15 credits)

• EDAE 639 – Instructional Design (3 cr.)
• EDUC 651 – Multicultural and Special Populations (3 cr.)
• MU 684 – Teaching Seminar (3 cr.)
• MU 792 – Seminar (6 cr.)

Directed Electives (15 credits)

• Electives chosen with the advisor

Dissertation (15 credits)

• MU 799 – Dissertation

Application Deadlines

Students may be admitted for the fall semester only.

Start your application online and upload materials directly into the online system. You can save your progress and return any time.

1 Review Minimum Admission Requirements

For full consideration for a Fall semester start, please submit your application by February 15. Applications beyond this date will be accepted and considered on an individual basis.

Admission requirements reflect the minimum standards an applicant must meet. Achievement above the minimum standards will increase the competitiveness of your application. If you have any questions about the application requirements and process, please contact Blythe LaGasse , Ph.D., MT-BC, Program Coordinator.

Note on Applicant Interviews : All finalists for the Ph.D. program will undergo an interview with the music therapy faculty. The applicant will need to demonstrate functional music skills during this interview.

Admission requirements:

• A bachelor's degree in music therapy from a regionally accredited institution (or a bachelor's degree and completion of a music therapy equivalency program). Note: A master's degree from an accredited college or university may be accepted for a maximum of 30 credits.
• Current board-certification in music therapy.
• A minimum of three years of full-time professional clinical practice experience or its equivalent in part-time work, per the American Music Therapy Association’s Standards for Education and Clinical Training.

Note that meeting the minimum department standards does not ensure admission to the program. Admission to Colorado State University graduate programs is based on a number of factors, including prior academic and professional experience and the personal statement.

2 Prepare Application Materials

Applicants will be required to submit the following information. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Statement of Purpose

The statement should include the following points:

• Identification of an advisor
• Description of your interest in the CSU Music Therapy Ph.D.
• An overview of your music therapy experiences.
• Outline of your specific areas of research interest and clinical expertise.
• Detail of your future career ambitions and why they fit with one or more of our Ph.D. program’s core areas of research, clinical practice, and teaching.
• Writing sample, e.g. a master's thesis, term paper from a graduate class, published research article, or other scholarly writing.

Curriculum Vitae or Resume

Please include at least three years successful full-time experience, or its equivalent, as a professional music therapist.

Video Audition

Provide a video clip of no more than seven minutes showing a therapeutic music experience. This does not need to include a client.

Provide a one-page explanation that includes a client description (i.e., describe an individual with whom you would use this technique/protocol), goal/objective, explanation of choice in the therapeutic music experience, and what you would do next in the treatment process.

Two letters of recommendation

Applicants are required to identify two references who will be requested to provide information electronically. References should be able to speak to your current ability to complete doctoral work and research.

3 Complete Online Application

Complete the online graduate application form and pay the nonrefundable application processing fee (payable online). As soon as you have completed the required information, please submit your application. Your application will not be reviewed until it is complete and all required materials have been received.

• Select "Music Therapy (Ph.D) – Distance" when choosing the program of study.

4 Request Transcripts

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Apply to Herron's Ph.D. in Music Therapy program

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Music Therapy is an Indiana University degree. The flexible 90-credit-hour online or on-campus curriculum provides opportunities to explore the vast ways music can benefit health and well-being as you begin your independent research program. You will also have the chance to prepare for faculty positions in one of the fastest growing music professions.

Apply free week: Dec. 2-6

Herron School of Art and Design will waive application fees for all prospective graduate students who submit an application from Dec. 2 to Dec. 6.

Step 1: Apply to IU Indianapolis as a graduate student

Prerequisites

A minimum of 3 years (or its equivalent) of clinical practice as a music therapist is required to apply to the Ph.D. program in Music Therapy. Applicants must also provide  evidence of Music Therapy Board Certification (MT-BC).

Transfer credits or direct admit

For applicants who have already completed a Master’s Degree, a transcript review by the music therapy graduate committee will determine if any credits qualify are applicable to the Ph.D. requirements. If the applicant completed a thesis-based Master’s Degree, up to thirty (30) credits can be transferred. Specifically, up to twenty-one (21) credits of graded graduate coursework (equivalent to 500-level or higher) can be applied and up to nine (9) credits of appropriate Master’s thesis-level research credit can be applied. If the applicant completed a “coursework only” master’s degree, up to twenty-one (21) credits of graded graduate coursework (equivalent to 500-level or higher) can be applied.

Applicants entering the program post-B.S. who are interested in earning an M.S. in Music Therapy prior to continuing their Ph.D. work will be advised to take appropriate coursework and if applicable, Master’s thesis-level research credit, that qualifies toward the Ph.D. in Music Therapy requirements.

Application components

Online application.

To begin the application process, visit IU Indianapolis'  online graduate application .

Apple Safari and Google Chrome users must enable pop-ups and third-party cookies in order for the application to function properly.

Board-certification status

Applicants must provide evidence of current board-certification status (MT-BC).

Statement of purpose

Submit a short essay discussing the applicant’s ideas for doctoral research and arguing how their expertise and interests make them the a strong candidate for pursuing this research. In preparing this statement, applicants should identify the faculty member(s) that they are most interested in working with. The statement of purpose should not exceed three double-spaced pages.

Recommendations

You will be asked to provide contact details (i.e. names, street addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses) of three recommenders from professionals familiar with your academic, clinical, or research background.

Recommenders will only receive an electronic request after you've submitted your online application. In the online framework, they will be asked to discuss aspects of your academic or professional performance, knowledge, skills, and abilities. Recommenders must submit their recommendations electronically.

Official transcripts

Official transcripts from each institution you attended must be sent to Herron's Office of Admissions and Student Services. Official transcripts must demonstrate a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale and completion of a bachelor's degree.

If you are in the process of completing a bachelor's degree when you apply, a transcript showing your academic record through your current term of study is acceptable. If admitted to Herron, you must submit a final, official transcript verifying the completion and award of your degree.

For international students, if the original documents are not in English, a verified translation must be sent with your official transcripts.

Submitting electronic transcripts

If your institution(s) can submit official transcripts electronically, they can be emailed to [email protected] .

If your school is sending limited-time login credentials that allow us to access their transcript system, be sure to make your request during regular business hours (Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. EST).

Emailed unofficial PDFs of transcripts will not be accepted.

Submitting mailed hard copies

If there is an extenuating circumstance preventing the submission of official electronic transcripts, contact the Office of Admissions and Student Services at [email protected] with an explanation and a representative will provide detailed mailing instructions.

Note: We do not require transcripts from Indiana University campuses.

Proof of English proficiency for international applicants

Proof of English proficiency is required for international students unless the applicant's undergraduate degree is from a university that is located in a country where English is the official language .

Most commonly, students submit TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or IELTS (International English Language Testing System) scores. TOEFL scores must total 79 or higher on the internet-based test (550 or higher on the paper-based test). IELTS scores must total 6.5 or higher.

Applicants must request that an official copy of their test results be sent directly to IU Indianapolis by the testing agency. The IU Indianapolis reporting code for TOEFL is 1325. Other tests or ELS coursework may be accepted in order to verify English proficiency.

For a list of all options and minimum scores required, please see the IU Indianapolis Office of International Affairs English Requirements .

Further documentation for international applicants

For a full list of required documents, please visit the IU Indianapolis Office of International Affairs .

As the final step in the application process, semi-finalists will be contacted for an i n-person or telephone interview with the graduate program director or a graduate faculty member.

Application fees

• IU Indianapolis online graduate application fee: $70 for all applicants

Application deadlines

January 15: Deadline to submit your completed online application for funding consideration

January 22: Deadline to submit all supplemental materials for funding consideration

April 1: Deadline to submit your completed online application

April 8: Deadline to submit all supplemental materials

Technology and equipment requirements

Music Technology and Music Therapy students in the Department of Music and Arts Technology are required to have core technology elements prior to enrollment. The specific requirements vary between programs based on the curricular needs of each degree and can be found on our technical requirements page .

Ask an admissions counselor , or contact Herron's Office of Admissions and Student Services directly at 317-278-9400 or [email protected] .

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Boyer College of Music and Dance

Phd music therapy.

PhD coordinator: Dr. Wendy Magee

This degree is the first true PhD in music therapy to be offered in the United States. The PhD program has music therapy as the major area of study with its own core curriculum, supported by studies in research, music and related health disciplines. Objectives of the PhD are to prepare individuals to conduct research and develop theory, in quantitative and qualitative research paradigms; provide opportunities for further development of clinical expertise in two areas: Music Medicine and Music Psychotherapy; provide opportunities to gain expertise in areas of specialization within the above two areas of practice (e.g., particular client population, methodology, or research paradigm); provide opportunities to develop expertise and skill in college-teaching and clinical supervision.

Individuals applying for the PhD must hold  bachelor's degree in any music-related area or its equivalent; have earned a master's degree in music therapy or related area; have professional certification in music therapy; have at least five years of full-time clinical experience as a professional music therapist.

Go back to About More in Music Therapy

Search NYU Steinhardt

Phd, music education with a specialization in music therapy.

The Music Education PhD Program with a Music Therapy Focus is designed for music therapy clinicians who wish to develop research skills and enhanced theory knowledge as a preparation for an academic career or as an aid in pursuing research projects as part of a clinical career. This 45-credit degree includes a minimum of 18 credits in research coursework, 24 credits of electives, and a 3-credit dissertation proposal seminar. Graduates of the program will be able to design and implement studies using multiple approaches, such as quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods, as well as arts-based and community- based participatory research methods. Emphasis is placed on studies of contemporary clinical and professional relevance that also reflect the individual student’s areas of clinical expertise. Students will also critically engage with multiple theoretical and philosophical frameworks prevalent in music education/therapy settings. And last, students will develop skills to effectively communicate, verbally and in writing, about their own and others’ research and contemporary educational/clinical practice in music education/therapy settings.

The degree can be completed on either a full-time or part-time basis and is only open to credentialed music therapists with a master’s degree and 3-5 years of clinical experience.

Course Sequence

This degree is unique in allowing each student to craft an individualized course of study, choosing the research and content courses that meet the student’s personal interests. Elective courses are drawn from a variety of areas including music therapy, applied psychology, musicology, and other related arts and health areas. Students take a combination of qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods research courses, although the program is weighted towards the qualitative approach as many students find that these methods are better suited to their research interests. All students are strongly encouraged to take at least two semesters of quantitative research courses—whether or not they are using these methods in their own studies—in order to be able to teach this content as part of an academic career. Doctoral level music therapy courses include “Contemporary Music Therapy Theory” and “Developing Presentations and Publications in Music Therapy.”

Specialization

While the degree does not have discrete specialization tracks, students will pursue a course of study based upon their prior academic experience and future goals. In some ways, the degree offers as many specializations as there are students, something that reflects the individualized nature of the degree. Students who completed their master’s degree at schools other than NYU can take existing graduate music therapy courses in areas such as theory development, technology, and verbal methods. Students who wish to develop or broaden their clinical skills have available to them courses in the areas of counseling and psychotherapy. In addition to basic courses in gathering and analyzing qualitative data, a number of specialized qualitative research courses are offered in the following areas: Historical Research, Case Study/Ethnographic Inquiry, Interview & Observation, Participatory Action Research, The Listening Guide Method of Psychological Inquiry, Mixed-Methods, and Arts-Based Research.

Sample Elective Courses

With 24 credits of electives, this typically comes out to eight 3-credit courses. Students can take elective courses in the Steinhardt School, and also the College of Arts and Sciences, and the Silver School of Social Work. So there are too many potential elective courses to list them all. However, many students opt for courses in the department of Applied Psychology, such as the following: Grant Writing and Grant Management for the Social Sciences; Issues in Counseling People With Disabilities; Culture, Context, and Psychology; Cross-Cultural Research Methods: An Introduction; Trauma: Theoretical and Clinical Perspectives; Cross-Cultural Counseling; Grief and Bereavement Counseling; Marriage, Couple & Family Counseling.

Culminating Experience 

Each student will complete a doctoral dissertation under the direction of a chair and two additional faculty members constituting a three-person doctoral committee. The study must be successfully defended in an oral examination led by two outside readers. The study can be empirical, historical, or philosophical but must represent a significant original contribution to knowledge in the field. 

Curricular Requirements

Program requirements, foundations.

All students are required to complete 6 credits (two courses) of course work in foundations during the first 24 credits of doctoral study.  Graduate courses qualify for the foundations requirement when they are upper division courses (NYU Steinhardt 2000 level courses or higher) in music education or music therapy.  Courses are considered foundational when they (1) provide broad basic content not limited to a single profession, are outside the student's specialization, and do not require prerequisites; (2) are based on current scholarship in the arts, humanities, sciences and/or social sciences; and (3) have wide applicability to common issues of the student's specialization and profession.

A cognate is a course outside of the student's specialization or a course that combines music with another academic discipline.  Graduate courses qualify for the cognates requirement when they are upper division courses (2000 level courses or higher) outside music education or music therapy.

Research Courses

Research courses by advisement are related to the student's proposed topic or area of research interest.  These courses are selected to ensure that the student has the appropriate skills and expertise to conduct research and analysis necessary to write a dissertation.  Potential research courses include those with a wide range of qualitative, quantitative, and mixed method focuses.  Full-time students should be enrolled in at least one research course in the first 4 semesters.

Sample Plan of Study

Following completion of the required coursework for the PhD, students are expected to maintain active status at New York University by enrolling in a research/writing course or a Maintain Matriculation ( MAINT-GE 4747 ) course.  All non-course requirements must be fulfilled prior to degree conferral, although the specific timing of completion may vary from student-to-student.