Music Therapy
Collaborate. Contribute. Thrive.
Our internationally renowned faculty genuinely care about our students, providing mentorship, guidance and opportunities to thrive. We collaborate with medical, psychiatric, education and community partners to advance research, teaching and clinical practice while equipping students with relevant, evidence-based knowledge in the field.
Explore Our Programs
As one of the select few music therapy programs in the nation to offer degrees at the bachelor's, master's and doctoral levels, we ensure students develop and expand their skills, not only in the classroom but also in a thriving metropolitan city where the arts and healthcare intersect.
Why Study Music Therapy at UMKC Conservatory?
For more than 50 years, our programs have balanced rigorous clinical training with strong research foundations. Students benefit from the most up-to-date information, research and skills available. Our unique approach equips them with the in-depth knowledge and practical skills needed to enter the field as confident, well-rounded professionals who are ready to lead and innovate from day one.
Community-Embedded Learning and Lasting Connections
Our students work closely with a large network of music therapists in the KC area, many of whom are program alumni. Numerous clinical partnerships and diverse practicum and internship opportunities ensure students gain the knowledge and skills needed to succeed.
Receive One-on-One Mentorship
Benefit from individualized attention and support, delivered by accomplished faculty clinicians. All of our courses are taught by highly experienced, board-certified music therapy faculty.
Access Rewarding Job Opportunities
Our programs have a nearly 100% job placement rate, meaning our graduates are employed in a variety of health and educational settings directly after completing their internships.
Get Hands-On Specialized Training
In addition to being board-certified, our faculty hold specializations in neonatal intensive care and neurologic music therapy practice, meaning our students receive instruction in highly sought-after areas of clinical practice.
Student and Alumni Insights
I loved my time at UMKC! There were so many clinical situations that prepared me well for my current internship, and there were so many opportunities within the program to learn, make connections, network and meet amazing people. UMKC Music Therapy gave me a place to belong and a purpose to work for, and I would recommend it to ANYONE with a passion for music and helping people!"
Hadley Jarvis, '25
Bachelor of Arts in Music Therapy alumna
Everyone at UMKC is so welcoming and kind and wanted to see me succeed. The music therapy department was a close-knit group of people who all supported each other musically and intellectually. The variety of clinical opportunities prepared me to be a well-rounded music therapist who was comfortable working with multiple populations. Even as an alum and a working certified music therapist, I have stayed connected with the university and my professors, who continue to provide support.
Grace Troesser, '21
Bachelor of Arts in Music Therapy alumna
I chose UMKC because of all the different opportunities I have here in the city as I progress in my career. There are over 30 practices for me to observe, volunteer and have practicums at, where I can see all kinds of different people and populations that spark my interests.
Hope Romero, '21
Bachelor of Arts in Music Therapy alumna
Popular Student Resources
Research Spotlight
UMKC Conservatory's Director of Music Therapy and Associate Professor, Dr. Amy Robertson, is a board-certified music therapist who specializes in working with premature infants. Learn more about her research on the benefits of music therapy for extremely preterm infants born at 25-28 weeks.