Equivalency in Music Therapy Certificate Program

This post-baccalaureate, non-degree program is designed for students who hold a bachelor’s degree in music or a closely related field and wish to pursue professional certification as a music therapist. The Equivalency Program includes all core music therapy coursework and clinical training required for board certification, along with any necessary coursework in related fields (e.g., abnormal psychology).

Although some coursework may be taken for graduate credit, the Equivalency Program is considered an entry-level professional training route. Most students register for and earn undergraduate credit, though individual plans of study are determined in consultation with the Music Therapy Program Director in alignment with AMTA education and clinical training standards.

The Equivalency in Music Therapy program typically requires at least three semesters of academic coursework, followed by a full-time internship requiring a minimum of 900 hours of supervised clinical training. This internship is completed after all academic requirements have been fulfilled.

Upon successful completion of the academic and internship components, candidates are eligible to sit for the National Board Certification Examination for Music Therapists, administered by the Certification Board for Music Therapists (CBMT). Those who pass the exam earn the credential Music Therapist–Board Certified (MT-BC). Professional membership is available through the American Music Therapy Association (AMTA)