Scheidt School of Music Launches Accredited Music Therapy Program
August 14, 2024 — The music therapy program at the University of Memphis has earned accreditation from both the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM) and the American Music Therapy Association (AMTA), positioning the UofM as a regional leader in the emerging field of music therapy education and research.
The newly accredited program, housed within the Rudi E. Scheidt School of Music, aims to prepare students for careers in this rapidly growing healthcare profession.
“This propels the Scheidt School of Music to the forefront of what is happening today within the arts and health-care communities,” said Debra Burns, the new dean of the College of Communications and Fine Arts and a world-renowned pioneer in the field of music therapy. “It is this kind of forward thinking that drew me to the UofM and I am thrilled to continue this research that will help our community and elevate our University.”
The dual accreditation aligns with the University of Memphis' R1 research status, setting the Rudi E. Scheidt School of Music on a path to contribute groundbreaking research in this dynamic field. The program will bridge the gap between the arts and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) disciplines, furthering the University's commitment to interdisciplinary studies.
Accreditation from the two primary accrediting organizations in the field also reinforces the UofM’s community impact and healthcare contributions. Students in the program will complete 1,200 clinical hours, working directly with local healthcare facilities, schools and community organizations. This hands-on experience not only benefits the students but also provides valuable therapeutic services to diverse populations in Memphis and surrounding areas.
By bridging the arts and healthcare, the UofM is fostering a new generation of professionals equipped to harness music's healing power, addressing critical healthcare needs and improving the quality of life for individuals across various settings.
“Music therapy is a field that will only continue to grow as more individuals are made aware of it. From treating brain injuries and dementia to addiction and pain management, the need for music therapists is growing,” said Albert Nguyen, director of bands and interim Rudi E. Scheidt School of Music director. “It is a testament to our distinguished music faculty that we are now one of just 80 accredited institutions in the nation providing a music therapy degree.”
Jim Pierce, assistant professor of music therapy and president of the Tennessee Association for Music Therapy (TAMT), will lead the program. Pierce brings valuable expertise and connections to the field, including membership in the Tennessee Music Therapy Task Force (TNTF) and the AMTA.
Graduates of the program will be eligible to take the national board exam and become licensed board-certified music therapists (MT-BC), a credential recognized and protected by Tennessee law earlier this year. This recognition is expected to significantly enhance job opportunities for music therapists in the state.
The job outlook for music therapists is promising, with projected growth rates ranging from 4% to 15% nationwide by 2029. In Memphis, music therapists can expect average salaries between $48,000 and $72,000.
Music therapy is the clinical and evidence-based use of music interventions to accomplish individualized goals within a therapeutic relationship by credentialed professionals. Music therapists work in various settings, including psychiatric hospitals, rehabilitative facilities, medical hospitals, outpatient clinics, schools and private practice.
More information about the music therapy program is available at memphis.edu/music/academics/music_therapy.
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