Master of Arts in Music Therapy

Pacific’s music therapy program offers post baccalaureate education for advanced training at a Master’s level, which supports career advancement beyond attainment of the Board Certification. Flexible learning options support a broad range of career options for rapidly developing health care arenas. MA coursework affords students greater depth and breadth in knowledge and skills for advanced clinical competency and identifying areas of specialization through individualized mentoring. Overview of Post-Baccalaureate Music Therapy Options Master of Arts Degree in Music Therapy This program is for Board-Certified Music Therapists seeking preparation for advanced-level practice, with specialization in either clinical or research areas. Equivalency Program Plus Master’s Degree in Music Therapy (These students are classified as graduate students and are referred to as Equivalency Plus Master's Students.) This program supports rapid development of advanced clinical competencies in music therapy. Candidates, who already have an undergraduate degree, demonstrate strong musicianship, and who qualify to enter the Graduate School may apply for this program. The Music Therapy Equivalency Plus Master's students must first complete the Equivalency requirements. Graduate-level classes such as MUSC 202 or MUSC 203, music electives, or specialization field courses may be taken concurrently. However, all music therapy graduate-level core courses can only be taken after successful completion of all Equivalency courses and the clinical internship (MTHR 187). Equivalency Plus Master's students usually earn the MT-BC credential and start practicing music therapy shortly after completing internship. This “real life” experience is extremely valuable in conjunction with the advanced coursework in music therapy. Master of Arts Degree in Music Therapy Program Description The Master of Arts in music therapy requires a minimum of 36 units and provides a balance across three main areas, with at least 13 units in music therapy foundation courses, 13 units in specialization field courses, and 10 or more units of free electives. Students are able to focus on their specific personal career goals by selecting one of two tracks supporting: Preparation for eventual entry into teaching and research careers (Generally, this requires completion of the master’s degree in music therapy first, followed by doctoral level work available in other programs.) or Development of advanced clinical, administrative and program development skills. Students must complete a minimum of 36 units with a Pacific cumulative and major/program grade point average of 3.0 or higher in order to earn the Master of Arts degree in music therapy.