Music Therapy is the clinical and evidence-based use of music interventions by a board-certified music therapist to address a person’s goals within a therapeutic relationship. Music therapists can address the emotional, cognitive, physical, medical, educational, and spiritual needs of clients across the lifespan and across diverse identities.

The mission of the music therapy program at Wartburg College is to help students develop skills in clinical musicianship and inclusive practice through an integrative approach to music therapy. This approach means that we teach practical, research-based, and culture-centered ways of using music from a variety of theoretical orientations to develop students’ clinical adaptability. Wartburg College is an accredited member of both the National Association of Schools of Music and the American Music Therapy Association.

All music therapy students at Wartburg are provided with the opportunity to complete five clinical experiences, known as practicum. Board-Certified Music Therapists supervise all student music therapists in their clinical work. Wartburg students can conduct original research and gain leadership experience through membership in the Wartburg Student Music Therapy Association.