Music Therapy Major | Truman State University

Music Therapy Major (BS)

With its unique integration of art and science, the Bachelor of Science in music therapy lets you combine your love of music with a passion for helping others. This degree prepares you for a career as a music therapist by developing your musicianship, performance, therapeutic, and scholarly skills. The program includes rigorous training in music and courses in psychology, biology, nursing, sociology, and anthropology.

Once you have been accepted to Truman, an audition is required for acceptance into this music major.

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Truman’s music therapy program (pending AMTA approval) prepares you to take the exam given by the Certification Board for Music Therapists.

As a board-certified music therapist, you can work with clients of all ages in schools, hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, rehabilitation centers, hospice and wellness programs, and other professional settings.

Featured Courses

Developmental Psychology

Explore psychological, social, cognitive, and biological development from prenatal development through old age.

Foundations of Anatomy

Learn the fundamental principles of human anatomy.

Music Analysis

Study of the language of music and basic materials, structures, and procedures of the art of sound.

Music Therapy Clinical Foundations

Develop techniques and skills for leading and adapting music interventions in clinical settings including singing, movement, improvisation, and functional accompaniment skills on several instruments.

Aural Skills in Music

Learn about Ear Training with topics that cover harmonic, rhythmic, and melodic dictation as well as aural identification of major and minor scales, melodic intervals including an octave and triads. You also study Sight Singing which includes singing short melodies at sight, major and minor scales, intervals including an octave, triads, and tapping or reciting rhythmic exercises.

Class Lessons in Voice

Learn about vocal fundamentals, repertoire, and phonetics.

Guitar Class

Study the basic skills necessary for playing the guitar including playing primary and secondary chords, transposition, various strumming techniques, and finger-picking patterns.

Music Programs and Studios

The Music Department offers a wide range of programs and studios so you can develop your skills in a variety of musical instruments and musical styles.

Programs and Studios

Music Ensembles

Truman's choral and instrumental ensembles provide opportunities for you to collaborate with fellow musicians and participate in musical performances. Some ensembles require auditions.

Explore Ensembles

Research Opportunities

Pair up with a faculty member to participate in an ongoing research project or explore your own research. You can also present your results at the annual Student Research Conference held on campus.

Research

Music Events

Student concerts and recitals are held throughout the year. The Music Department also hosts annual events celebrating music and brings renowned artists to campus.

Concerts

Annual Events