FAQ
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There are three program of study options for music therapy students at UofL. The Bachelor of Music with Emphasis in Music Therapy degree is offered for degree seeking students. The curriculum requirements for this degree can be found here.hyperlink The Bachelor of Music with Emphasis in Music Therapy and Concentration in Jazz Studies degree is also offered for degree seeking students. The curriculum requirements for this degree can be found here.hyperlink The music therapy jazz emphasis track allows students who are interested in gaining in-depth knowledge of jazz methods while pursuing a music therapy degree the opportunity to participate in jazz ensembles and receive individual instruction in jazz studios. The Jamey Aebersold Jazz Studies Program at University of Louisville is recognized nationally and internationally for the quality and innovative experiences offered to students. For students who have already earned a Bachelor of Music or Bachelor of Arts degree in music, the equivalency certificate for music therapy provides an opportunity for students to complete the remaining course requirements necessary to sit for the Board Certification exam administered by the Certification Board for Music Therapists. The equivalency track does not result in a degree being awarded and therefore students who are admitted for this track are classified as non-degree seeking students. This classification may affect a student's ability to receive financial aid and students considering this option are encouraged to contact the Financial Aid Office. The requirements for equivalency students are individualized and are based on analysis of course content for each course successfully completed on the student's transcript. Each course taken before entering University of Louisville must meet similar content and requirements of courses taught at UofL. Students may be asked to supply syllabi of previous courses to aid in the decision for the individualized plan of studies.
WHAT IS MUSIC THERAPY? You are not the first person to ask...music therapists answer this question on a regular basis! Music therapy is defined as "the clinical and evidence-based use of music interventions to accomplish individualized goals within a therapeutic relationship by a credentialed professional who has completed an approved music therapy program" by the American Music Therapy Association. Music therapists are skilled professionals who assess patient/client need areas, identify goals and objectives related to the areas of need, create therapeutically appropriate interventions through music to work towards meeting goals and objectives, and document patient/client outcomes.
WHERE AND WITH WHOM DO MUSIC THERAPISTS WORK? Music therapists work with individuals ranging in ages from neonates through seniors in a variety of settings including: • Community Outreach Centers • Early Childhood Centers • Hospice/Palliative Care Centers • Hospitals • Music Education Programs • Prisons • Private Practices • Psychiatric Facilities • School systems • Shelters • Substance Abuse Programs
Music therapy has been identified as one of the top 6 in-demand certifications by MSN Careers and has been highlighted in many news segments, novels and movies in recent years. There are consistently more job postings for music therapists than are able to be filled each year. The 2008 Executive Summary Evidence for Innovation: Transforming Children's Health Through the Physical Environment cited music therapy assisted medical procedures as a recommendation for improved clinical outcomes in children's hospitals. With the increased awareness of cost saving benefits for agencies employing music therapists, demand for services continues to rise. For links to these and more music therapy newsworthy stories visit our "News" page.
WHAT IS THE JOB RETENTION FOR MUSIC THERAPISTS Individuals who typically pursue music therapy as a profession and work in the field are good musicians who have good physical health for stamina, emotional stability, a sincere interest in helping others, patience, tact, understanding, a good sense of humor, are reliable, genuine, and ethical (Davis, Gfeller, & Thaut, 2008). Music therapists are considered valuable assets to organizations and treatment team and most often find the need to expand staffing to meet the needs of patients and clients.
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WHICH MUSIC THERAPY DEGREES ARE OFFERED AT UNIVERSITY OF LOUISVILLE? 
WHAT JOB AVAILABILITY IS THERE IN MUSIC THERAPY?