Music Therapy and Counseling MA

Degree Awarded: Master of Arts (MA)
Minimum Required Credits: 60.0
Co-op Option: None
Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) code: 51.2305
Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) code: 29-1129

About the Program

The Master of Arts program in Music Therapy and Counseling educates students for creative, responsive and effective therapy practice in which music is the essential mode of transformation. Through a balance of classroom education and clinically supervised practicum and internship experiences, students develop a strong foundation for skilled clinical practice. The 60 semester-credit curriculum includes specific music therapy coursework in areas such as clinical musicianship, clinical improvisation, principles and practices in music therapy, and technological applications as well as general mental health counseling coursework in human development, social and cultural foundations, clinical appraisal and assessment and group dynamics. All courses are taught at the graduate level. Graduates are eligible for board certification through the Certification Board for Music Therapists as well as associate professional counseling licensure in Pennsylvania (with full licensure upon completion of post-graduation requirements).

Music therapists use music within a therapeutic relationship to address physical, emotional, cognitive and social needs of individuals. Research shows that music therapy is an effective treatment for children, adolescents, adults and older adults with mental health needs, developmental and learning disabilities, Alzheimer’s disease and other aging-related conditions, substance use disorders, acute and chronic pain and brain injuries. Graduates of the MA in Music Therapy & Counseling program go on to work in a variety of clinical environments, including but not limited to medical and behavioral health inpatient and outpatient settings, community health and wellness centers, schools and after-school programs, trauma-informed settings, correctional facilities, elder care facilities and private practices.

Additional Information

For more information about this program, please contact the College of Nursing and Health Professions 

Admission Requirements

Bachelor's degree in any field from an accredited institution, and a minimum overall GPA of 3.0 or above on all previous coursework.

Standardized Tests:

N/A

Transcripts:

Official transcripts must be sent directly to Drexel from all the colleges/universities that you have attended. Transcripts must be submitted in a sealed envelope with the college/university seal over the flap to Drexel University, Application Processing, P.O. Box 34789, Philadelphia, PA 19101, or submitted through a secure electronic delivery service to enroll@drexel.edu. Please note that transcripts are required regardless of the number of credits taken or if the credits were transferred to another school. An admission decision may be delayed if you do not send transcripts from all colleges/universities attended.

Transcripts must show course-by-course grades and degree conferrals. If your school does not notate degree conferrals on the official transcripts, you must provide copies of any graduate or degree certificates.

If your school issues only one transcript for life, you are required to have a course-by-course evaluation completed by an approved transcript evaluation agency

Use our Transcript Lookup Tool to assist you in contacting your previous institutions

Prerequisites:

Instrumental and vocal music experience is needed. All instrumental backgrounds are welcomed and will be considered for admissions. Applicants can have backgrounds in varied styles and genres with working knowledge in applied musical concepts. Volunteer or paid experience in a helping relationship is preferred.

References:

Three letters of recommendation are required. At least one recommendation should refer to your musicianship or musical skills. Letters of recommendation should be requested and submitted electronically through your online application.

Personal Statement/Essay:

Submit a 500-750 word essay that focuses on your relationship with music, what led you to pursue a career path in music therapy and additional information that informs your application to this program. Essays may be submitted with your application or through the Discover Drexel portal after your online application is complete.

Music Portfolio:

Please submit the following audition videos through the Discover Drexel portal, which becomes available after submission of the completed online graduate application form.

For submission:

Two pieces from different musical styles or genres that demonstrate proficiency on your primary instrument(s).
Two popular, folk or original songs, sung while accompanying yourself on piano.
Two popular, folk or original songs, sung while accompanying yourself on guitar.

CV/Resume:

Required. Include relevant education, work and service/volunteer experience.

Work and Volunteer Experience:

Social service work or volunteer history is highly valued.

Degree Requirements

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Students who select the Thesis option are required to take CATX 7997, a one- credit Thesis Preparation course.

Program Learning Outcomes