Music Therapy MS

Engaging students with valuable classroom, research, and clinical experiences

The Master of Science (M.S.) in music therapy utilizes the power of technology to allow music therapists to connect with and empower clients in ways that seemed impossible only a few years ago. The placement of the department on the IU Indianapolis campus provides music therapy graduate students access to three high-quality healthcare systems to engage in research and clinical experiences.

  This program is currently being redesigned, and applications for fall 2025 will not be accepted. If you have any questions, please contact Herron's Office of Admissions and Student Services at 317-278-9400 or hadmit@iu.edu.

2:1Student to faculty ratio

7nearby hospitals ideal for research and clinicals

2Dynamic study tracks

Accreditation

The Master of Science in music therapy program at Herron School of Art and Design at IU Indianapolis is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM), requiring routine self-evaluation to meet evolving quality standards.  The music therapy curriculum is also approved by the American Music Therapy Association (AMTA).

Music therapy lifted my soul and helped distract me from pain. [My music therapist] helped give me an outlet, something to live for and fight for so I wouldn’t give up on life.

IU University Health patient

Clinical Track

Core Courses (12 credits)

  • Philosophy and Theory of Music Therapy
  • Music in Medicine
  • Research Methods in Music and Multimedia
  • Advanced Clinical Techniques in Music Therapy


Elective Courses (9 credits)

Science Specialization (9 credits including a master's project)

Research Track

Core Courses (15 credits)

  • Philosophy and Theory of Music Therapy
  • Music in Medicine
  • Research Methods in Music and Multimedia
  • Advanced Clinical Techniques in Music Therapy
  • Quantitative and Qualitative Research in Music Therapy

Elective Research and Science Courses (6 credits)

Thesis (9 credits)

Prerequisites

Applicants must have a current music therapy board certification or the international equivalent.

IU Health

Music therapy helps bridge the gap

Through initial treatment and a stem cell transplant, Bridgewater looked forward to spending time with Riley Hospital music therapist, Caitlin Krater (M.S. music therapy '15).

Read the story

Faculty

J D

Justin Dahlem

Associate Faculty

Amanda Henley

Amanda Henley

Visiting Lecturer

Meganne Masko

Meganne Masko

Associate Professor

Kate Myers-Coffman

Kate Myers-Coffman

Visiting Assistant Professor

F P

Freddy Perkins

Associate Faculty

L S

Lane Summerlin

Associate Faculty

S W

Sharon Weyser

Associate Faculty

Music and arts technology department mission

The Department of Music and Arts Technology educates students in technical, theoretical, and creative skills emphasizing integrations of science and sound. Our graduate and undergraduate degrees in music technology and music therapy prepare students for professions valuing technological innovation in the arts and the roles of music in health and well-being.

Join Indiana’s premier school of art and design

Degree programs