Music Therapy PhD

Advance your scholarship and establish clinical competence with a Music Therapy PhD in Boyer College of Music and Dance. Immerse yourself in quantitative and qualitative research models, and make significant contributions to the field in both research and theory. Led by world-renowned music therapists, Temple’s Music Therapy PhD is recognized as the first of its kind in the U.S.

Study advanced areas of Music Medicine and Music Psychotherapy, and acquire focused expertise by specializing in a particular client population, methodology or research paradigm. The curriculum is grounded in advanced music therapy courses complemented by studies of music, research and related health disciplines. Culminating events for doctoral students include a comprehensive examination, as well as a final dissertation and defense.  

This doctoral degree program emphasizes proficiency in teaching higher education and clinical supervision. Graduates typically become professors, practitioners, researchers or supervisors in healthcare settings.

Classes & Curriculum

The Music Therapy PhD curriculum includes

  • Advanced Research Methods in Music Therapy,
  • Research in Music Medicine,
  • Research in Music Psychotherapy and
  • Theory Development in Music Therapy.

Learn more about the Music Therapy PhD coursework.

Intensive Learning Retreats & Online Instruction

Music Therapy courses are offered through various combinations of intensive learning retreats and online instruction via the Canvas program. The amount of time spent in class versus online varies according to the content and objectives of each course. Some courses require the full 12 to 13 hours per credit in class time, while others require less in-class time with more instructional time online. Two intensive retreats are offered each semester. Each retreat lasts from eight to 10 days, but you will only attend those days on which your classes meet.

Music Therapy PhD at Temple University, Japan Campus

International students can complete a Music Therapy PhD with courses taught in English at Temple’s campus in Tokyo, Japan. Master’s courses in advanced research and clinical practice, including medical music therapy and music psychotherapy, as well as courses on supervision and ethics are offered. Coursework is structured to accommodate the schedules of working music therapists. Classes take place during during a one- to two-week period during the spring or summer, accompanied by online learning throughout the year. Contact Wendy Magee, the PhD program director, at wmagee@temple.edu for more information.

Learn more about the PhD in Music Therapy at Temple University Japan.

Tuition & Fees

In keeping with Temple’s commitment to access and affordability, this Doctor of Philosophy offers a competitive level of tuition with multiple opportunities for financial support.

Tuition rates are set annually by the university and are affected by multiple factors, including program degree level (undergraduate or graduate), course load (full- or part-time), in-state or out-of-state residency, and more. These tuition costs apply to the 2024–2025 academic year.

Pennsylvania resident: $1,239.00 per credit
Out-of-state: $1,652.00 per credit

You can view the full Cost of Attendance breakdown on the Student Financial Services website.

BC-MTHE-PHD

Additional Program Information