The music therapy program at the University of Missouri-Kansas City Conservatory is approved by the American Music Therapy Association and was established in 1973.  Currently, it is the only music therapy program in the state of Missouri offered at a public institution.  Our strong community ties across the Kansas City metropolitan area allow us provide a diverse array of clinical experiences and training for our students at all levels. 

Students benefit from collaborations with more than 30 Board-Certified Music Therapists working in the Kansas City region in a variety of populations such as, but not limited to: medical, hospice, mental health, and special education.  UMKC is a public research institution and we are thrilled to engage students, faculty, and community partners in innovative research projects that uses music to enhance the lives of those in need.

The UMKC Music Therapy program is one of only a few programs in the country that is a member of the international Early Notes Network, a music therapy consortium for childhood neurodevelopment that consists of specialized music therapy experts and researchers. 

Additionally, our music therapy faculty are Fellows of the National Institute of Infant and Child Medical Music Therapy, allowing our students the unique opportunity to obtain advanced clinical training in neonatal intensive care music therapy practices.   

Music Therapy Clinic

Our program also includes a community Music Therapy Clinic, located within the Conservatory, that provides individual and group music therapy services to children and adults with disabilities and health needs. The clinic also provides unique clinical and practicum experiences for our students throughout the school year. During the summer, students have the opportunity to gain additional clinical experience through our Music Therapy Summer Camp for children with special needs.