Music Therapy Equivalency Program

If you are interested in healthcare professions and have a passion for music, consider becoming a music therapist. The Music Therapy Equivalency Program (MTEP) at Washington Adventist University is designed for those who already hold an undergraduate degree (most typically in music, music performance, or music education), but who wish to complete requirements for professional certification as a music therapist. Rather than completing a second bachelor’s degree, the student completes courses that will teach competencies required by the American Music Therapy Association (AMTA) for professional certification by the Certification Board for Music Therapists (CBMT). 

For most students with an undergraduate degree in music, the MTEP requires 3 semesters of on-campus study (usually part-time enrollment), followed by a 6-month required internship. Some students may require additional credits which will necessitate at least a semester longer to complete the equivalency program. Students with undergraduate degrees in areas other than music must complete basic coursework in music (i.e., music theory, lessons on a major instrument, music history, etc.) in addition to the core music therapy program. All required credits outside of the core curriculum are offered at WAU.

A music therapist works with people of all ages and needs in settings like general and psychiatric hospitals, community mental health agencies, rehabilitation centers, daycare facilities, nursing homes, schools, and private practice, among others. Individuals who complete the MTEP are eligible to sit for the Board Certification exam to earn the credential MT-BC which is necessary for professional practice.

WAU’s MTEP curriculum is approved by the American Music Therapy Association, and WAU is accredited by the National Association for Schools of Music (NASM).

What you will learn

1. Demonstrate music foundations and clinical skills central to the practice of music therapy.

2. Describe the relationship between music therapy, research, and practice.

3. Utilize a variety of music therapy methods and implement services in clinical settings across distinct population groups.

4. Document music therapy services according to the AMTA Standards of Clinical Practice.

5. Practice music therapy in a professional and ethical manner as delineated by the AMTA Professional Documents.

How long will it take?

The Music Therapy Equivalency Program can be completed in approximately 24 months, depending on how many supplemental courses are needed and the number of credits a student takes each semester. This program offers Sunday and weekday evening courses, so working professionals can attend school while maintaining their jobs. While some courses will have hybrid elements, most courses are on our campus located one mile from Washington, D.C., in Takoma Park, Maryland.

What Can I Do With A Music Therapy Equivalency Program?

Music therapy interventions promote wellness, manage stress, alleviate pain, express feelings, enhance memory, improve communication, promote physical rehabilitation, and more. For this reason, a music therapist works with people of all ages and needs, in settings like general and psychiatric hospitals, community mental health agencies, rehabilitation centers, daycare facilities, nursing homes, schools, and private practice, among others.