Purpose, Philosophy and Design

Courses in the Program

Clinical Training in Music Therapy

Getting Started

Certification Board for Music Therapy

American Music Therapy Association

Degree Program Information

College of Performing Arts Home Page

Information Contact:
Vince Glaeser, Director
Extended Education
714-997-6548
glaeser@chapman.edu

Music therapy is an allied health profession in which music is used as a modality to address the physical, psychological, cognitive, and social needs of individuals.

The Music Therapy program is one of the strongest programs at Chapman University. With the current shortage of music therapists in the United States, many positions across the country go unfilled. Since 1993, Chapman graduates have had a 100% pass rate on the Board Certification Examination with a 100% placement as professional music therapists, either in private practice or in various clinical settings.

This Extended Education program is designed to allow those not admitted into the Chapman University music program to take necessary coursework to qualify for certification examinations conducted by the Certification Board for Music Therapists. Students will be awarded Professional Development Undergraduate credit for coursework completed.

Basic Requirements

Music Therapists use music to facilitate clinical treatment goals or to provide palliative care. Therefore, a solid background in music is essential for effective clinical practice. The Equivalency Program in Music Therapy permits individuals with existing bachelor’s degrees in music or relevant areas and demonstrable musical talent to complete the necessary course requirements to pursue national certification as a Board Certified Music Therapist (MT-BC).

To complete the equivalency program, a student must complete courses that are equivalent to those that are required for Chapman University’s Bachelor of Music in Music Therapy degree. These include a combination of general education, traditional music, and music therapy courses. Coursework that is normally accepted by Chapman University as transfer credit will be credited towards the equivalency student’s program requirements. Thus, each student’s course of study will vary.

Getting Started

The music therapy course sequence begins with the fall semester, so early planning is recommended. Since each student’s Equivalency program requirements will differ, please contact the Director of Music Therapy for specific information relative to your situation. You will be asked to submit official transcripts of all university coursework that you wish to be evaluated in your application. Only official transcripts will be accepted.

In addition to the transcripts, your application should include your full name and contact information, including e-mail and a daytime phone number along with a one-to-three page letter that describes your interest in becoming a music therapist, and three letters of recommendation that specifically address your potential to become a music therapist.

We welcome your interest in our program and look forward to helping you live your dream.

Last update: Monday July 21, 2008