Shenandoah University

Programme overview

This American Music Therapy Association (AMTA)–approved Bachelor of Music Therapy trains students to design, implement and evaluate therapeutic music experiences tailored to client needs. The curriculum foregrounds clinical musicianship (guitar, keyboard, voice, percussion), interprofessional education with health professions students, clinical simulation, and partnerships with healthcare, education and private practice providers. The program is offered within a conservatory with a 50‑year history and is taught by a 12‑faculty team.

What you'll study

Coursework includes more than 60 credits of music‑therapy specific classes and 18 credits of clinical musical skills preparation. Students take multiple semesters of clinical guitar, piano, voice and percussion and receive instruction in music technology and telehealth practice. From the first semester, music therapy classes and clinical placements build practical skills. The program provides six clinical placements prior to internship and opportunities for community performances and special events specific to music therapy.

Entry requirements

The public course text does not list specific admission requirements. Prospective applicants should consult the university's admissions pages or contact the Conservatory for detailed entry criteria and audition information.

Career prospects

Graduates work in settings such as schools, hospitals, retirement communities and hospice care, and may enter private practice. After completing a six‑month, full‑time internship (1,000–1,040 hours) following eight semesters of coursework, students are eligible to sit for the CBMT Board Certification exam to become an MT‑BC. The program reports a 100% internship acceptance rate, participation across 62 clinical sites nationwide, a CBMT pass rate notably above the national average (92% cited), and 95% career employment within four months of graduation.

Scholarships & funding angle

Several funding options are noted: the program offers eligibility for work study in music therapy and the option to pursue performance certificates or minors (many students minor in psychology). In partnership with A Place to Be and the Ben‑Dov, Luminescence Foundation, the conservatory offers three merit‑based Ben‑Dov scholarships for students who intern at A Place to Be; each award totals $12,000 (approximately $7,000 in tuition remission plus a $5,000 internship stipend). Students apply for these during their senior year.