School of Health & Wellness · Bachelor of Science

Bachelor's in Music Therapy

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Program Overview

Finding a Voice Through Music

Maryville University's Bachelor of Science in Music Therapy prepares students to use music as a therapeutic intervention for individuals across the lifespan. Through coursework, clinical experiences and community partnerships, students develop the musical, clinical and interpersonal skills needed to support people with a wide range of healthcare and developmental needs. Accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM) and approved by the American Music Therapy Association (AMTA), the program prepares graduates for professional music therapy practice and board certification.

What sets the program apart

    • Accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM).
    • Approved by the American Music Therapy Association (AMTA).
    • Gain hands-on experience through project-based learning and community partnerships.
    • Learn from board-certified music therapists with extensive clinical and research experience.

Music Therapy Students Lab Tour

 
Music has always been a big part of my life, and it's always has been a big passion of mine. And I wanted to fulfill a degree in something that I can share my passion with others and also be therapeutic to them as well. I would describe music therapy as being a tool for others who are in need of any therapeutic services. We get the opportunity to work with clients throughout this degree so that we are well prepared for the field once we graduate. You should join us here at Maryville. You can come along to campus and we'll show you around.
Why Maryville

Why Choose Music Therapy at Maryville?

Class Size14

Average Class Size

SupportLife Coaching Team

A dedicated team of life coaches helps you personalize your education

Career Outcomes98%

Career outcomes rate for Maryville graduates

Financial Aid$59M+

Awarded in scholarships and aid last year

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We've made it easy: free transcript evaluation, quick admission decisions, and no application fee.

  • Upcoming term starts:
  • Fall 2026 Start Date: August 24
  • Spring 2027 Start Date: January 11
Apply nowSchedule a campus visit
Career Outlook

What can I do with this degree?

Music therapists use evidence-based musical interventions to help individuals achieve physical, emotional, cognitive and social goals. Graduates may work with children, adults and older adults in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, behavioral health programs, hospice organizations and community agencies.

Professional music therapists collaborate with physicians, counselors, educators, therapists and other healthcare professionals to support treatment plans and improve quality of life. Graduates must complete all certification and professional requirements applicable to music therapy practice.

Career Paths

Music therapists use evidence-based musical interventions to support clients’ physical, emotional, cognitive and social goals. Professional certification requirements apply.
Behavioral health music therapists may use music-based interventions to support people receiving care for mental health conditions, substance use disorders and related needs.
Pediatric music therapists work with children in healthcare, educational and community settings to support developmental, emotional, communication and physical goals.
Rehabilitation music therapists may support patients working toward physical, cognitive or communication goals following illness, injury or disability.
Hospice music therapists use music to support comfort, emotional expression, connection and quality of life for patients and their families during end-of-life care.
Geriatric music therapists work with older adults in settings such as senior living communities, memory care programs and healthcare organizations to support well-being, engagement and quality of life.
$60,910Median Annual Salary

Median annual wage for recreational therapists (May 2024).

1,600Annual Job Openings

About 1,600 openings projected annually from 2024–2034.

4%Projected Job Growth

Employment projected to grow 4% from 2024–2034.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Recreational Therapists. Music therapists do not have a separate Occupational Outlook Handbook occupation. Recreational therapists were selected as the closest representative occupation. Career outcomes vary by employer, certification, experience, location and specialization.

Admission Requirements, Curriculum & Courses

Undergraduate Admissions Requirements Discover requirements for a freshman, transfer, or international student.Course Descriptions Explore our catalog for details about the course requirements and electives.Degree Planning Sheet A sample plan of study

Want to learn more about our course offerings?

Detailed course descriptions and prerequisites are listed in our catalog.

Read full course descriptionsExplore the full catalog
Tuition, Cost & Savings

How you can afford an education.

An investment in your future shouldn't be out of reach. Maryville offers multiple paths to reduce your out-of-pocket cost — and our team will help you find every one you qualify for.

Ways to Save

Scholarship OpportunitiesMerit and need-based awards for qualifying students.
Transfer CreditApply previously earned credits toward your degree.
Benefits for MilitaryTuition assistance and GI Bill benefits for those who served.

Estimated tuition cost breakdown

Full-Time Tuition$25,766
Fees*$2,600
Estimated total cost**$28,366

*Fees can include digital course materials and textbooks/lab materials.

**Estimated cost does not include room and board or meal plans.

Explore additional tuition and costs

Need help financing your education? Get in touch!

Our financial aid advisors are here to walk you through scholarships, grants, and aid options for the Music Therapy program.

Financial Aid InformationContact the Financial Aid Office
Accreditation

Maryville is accredited.

Maryville University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Honors & Rankings

  • Kiplinger Best College Values 2019Ranked among the best values in private colleges by Kiplinger's Personal Finance.
  • Forbes America's Top Colleges 2018Ranked among “America's Top Colleges” by Forbes.
  • Ranked No. 1 in social mobility among private universities in St. Louis.
  • Best for Vets Colleges 2022 Military Times. We made the list!Named Best for Vets among colleges by Military Times.
Review Maryville's full list of honors and rankings
Take the Next Step

Ready to take the next step?

Apply today, request more information, or schedule a visit to see if Maryville is the right fit for you.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Music therapy is the clinical use of music-based interventions to help individuals achieve therapeutic goals related to physical, emotional, cognitive and social well-being.
Yes. The program is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM) and approved by the American Music Therapy Association (AMTA).
Students participate in project-based learning opportunities, including programs such as Kids Rock Cancer and Creative Music Making in partnership with community organizations.
The program is led by experienced faculty, including Director Crystal Weaver, a board-certified music therapist, certified rehabilitation counselor and licensed professional counselor.
Graduates may pursue careers in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, behavioral health settings, hospice organizations and other community healthcare environments. Professional certification requirements apply.
Yes. Students participate in experiential learning through partnerships such as Kids Rock Cancer and Creative Music Making with the St. Louis ARC and the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra.