Online Music Therapy Courses and Training Program Information

Online courses in music therapy cover the discipline's scientific basis, practical applications and role in promoting wellness. Courses available online in this field are usually part of a master's or Ph.D. program in music therapy and can sometimes be completed fully online. Continuing education options are also available online.

Overview of Music Therapy Courses and Training Programs Online

Music therapy courses approved by the American Music Therapy Association (www.musictherapy.org) can be found online as part of a graduate or doctoral degree program. Specific degree names include Master of Music in Music Therapy, Master of Science in Music Therapy and Doctor of Philosophy in Music Therapy. Continuing education opportunities approved by the Certification Board of Music Therapists (www.cbmt.org) are also available online for credit and may address specific strategies, issues or populations. Music therapists may work independently or as part of a multidisciplinary team in a hospital, clinic, social service program or other therapeutic setting.

Course Requirements

These online courses require regular access to an up-to-date computer with a high-speed Internet connection. Hardware requirements may include sufficient available space and memory, a CD/RW or DVD/RW drive, a monitor with a minimum resolution of 800x600 and a sound card and speakers. Headphones are strongly recommended.
Courses often come with specific browser recommendations. Software and programs necessary for properly displaying multimedia are generally freely available online. Students will need a word processing program and should run updated anti-virus software.

List of Online Music Therapy Courses

Music Therapy Research and Analysis Course

This course discusses quantitative and qualitative research methods utilized in the study of music therapy. Students examine evidence supporting the use of music in therapy and explore scientific concepts that explain its effectiveness and guide its application.

Music Therapy Theory Course

Various theories, philosophies and approaches informing the use of music in therapeutic settings are the focus of this course. Students consider ways for incorporating music into therapy and learn about its physical, cognitive and emotional benefits. Students also examine the scientific basis of the techniques and mechanisms music therapists employ when addressing specific physical, mental, emotional and behavioral issues.

Diversity in Music Therapy Course

This course provides music therapists with a diverse set of tools that can be used to meet the needs of clients who are of various ages, races, ethnicities, sexual orientations and levels of ability. Students are introduced to new forms of music and ways those forms can be used to communicate and express emotions. Applications designed to be all-inclusive and those geared toward specific populations are both discussed.

Music Technology Course

This course provides an overview of current and emerging technologies employed by music therapists. Students learn how to enhance therapy and individualize treatment through the proper selection and implementation of these technologies. Included is an overview of the use of sequencing and music notation technology, the Music Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) and visual and sound-based stimuli.