Conservatory of Music

Certification (Equivalency) Program

 Mandarin, Korean, and Japanese translations.

This program is designed for individuals who already have a bachelor’s degree in music (e.g., performance, music education, music management, etc.) or those with degrees in areas other than music (e.g., psychology, special education, English, etc.). This option does not include the usual coursework for a second bachelor’s degree. Instead, the Certification Program focuses on the completion of all necessary music/music therapy courses, competencies, and clinical internship, as required by the AMTA prerequisites to sit for the Music Therapy Board Certification Examination. Passing the Board Certification Examination certifies individuals to begin the professional practice of music therapy. (Learn more about CBMT and MT-BC requirements).

A popular and flexible learning option for mature individuals making a career change, the overall Certification program length may vary due to practical issues of balancing work or family commitments. The number of courses required for the completion of the certification program will vary according to the academic background and musical skills of those who apply.  The music therapy faculty works closely with potential Certification students to design an individualized plan to enable individuals to complete the various requirements in a cost-effective and timely manner, to expedite their entry into the music therapy job market. An important first step in this supportive mentoring process is the interview and music skills assessment session with the music therapy faculty. (For details on the interview/assessment, see below.)

The following courses constitute the equivalency/certification program in music therapy at the University of the Pacific. Total units for course requirements are approximate and will vary according to the college or university where course(s) are completed.

Certification Curriculum

Application Procedures

Applicants to the Certification Program must complete the following and submit all materials to the Music Therapy Program Director:

1. Official transcripts of all college level academic work, with evidence of completion of a baccalaureate degree.
2. Letter of application detailing reasons for pursuing a career in music therapy.
3. At least 2 letters of reference/recommendation supporting the applicant’s potential to succeed in a helping professions program.
4. International students are required to complete TOEFL and financial certification and will also be asked to produce a sample of writing at the time of the interview.
5. The GRE is NOT required for the Certification program, but is a requirement for all students applying for entry to the M.A. or the combined Certification Graduate program.
6. Prepare an audition on your principal musical instrument and select the Transfer audition instruction page for your principal instrument. You have the option to prepare for any of the audition levels, but are only required to meet the “All Other Majors and Music Minor” audition requirements. Please contact   Conservatory Student Services to schedule an audition.
7. All applicants must meet with the music therapy faculty for an interview and assessment of functional music skills. You will be expected to:  a) Sing and accompany yourself with piano and/or guitar. You may use sheet music or lead sheet. You should prepare 2 contrasting pieces from traditional or contemporary musical styles. b) Sing an American folk song from memory. This may be unaccompanied singing.

If you are unable to arrange for a campus interview/assessment because of distance, you will be expected to audio or video tape your musical skills assessment, as well as complete a telephone interview. 

Contact  Dr. Hsiao to schedule a phone interview, request a visit, or to address specific questions.