Three students sit together in a music therapy clinic space. One holds a guitar, with two others sitting beside them, all smiling. An instrument rests on the floor in front of them, adding to the relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
College of Health

Department of Music Therapy

Welcome to...

Cleveland State University’s Department of Music Therapy! Here, our students engage in a unique blend of rigorous academic coursework, hands-on clinical training, and collaboration within the College of Health. From early hands-on clinical experiences to specialized music therapy ensembles, our program will equip you with the skills needed to thrive as a board-certified music therapist. Our supportive faculty, affordable tuition, and client-focused approach ensure you’re prepared to make a real difference in various settings—from hospitals to schools to long-term care facilities. Join us at CSU to transform your passion for music into a powerful tool for healing and wellness!

About CSU's Department of Music Therapy

Established in 1976 – almost 50 years ago – the music therapy program at CSU began as a member of the Cleveland Music Therapy Consortium, which included Baldwin Wallace University and the College of Wooster. Today's stand-alone academic department originated in 2014, and we celebrated the program’s tenth anniversary in 2024-25. 

What is Music Therapy?

Music therapy is an established, evidence-based health science profession that harnesses the therapeutic power of music to support individuals across the lifespan. Through carefully designed interventions, music therapists work to address a range of cognitive, behavioral, communicative, social/emotional, physical, and spiritual needs. Music therapy offers a holistic approach tailored to each client's goals, whether aiding in pain management, promoting emotional expression, improving communication, or enhancing motor skills. At Cleveland State University, our program is committed to advancing the field through rigorous training, compassionate care, and a mission to prepare skilled music therapists who make a meaningful impact in diverse healthcare settings.

An image with three pictures of students from the department of music therapy with the CSU DMT mission's text

Mission

An image with three pictures of students from the department of music therapy with the CSU DMT vision's text

Vision

an image with students sitting on the floor, playing guitars, with statistics of how many clinical hours students provided to the community in 2024-2025

Our Impact

In 2024-2025, our music therapy students provided 13,730 hours of free clinical services to 1,462 patients at 21 community sites, demonstrating our commitment to giving back to the community and enriching the lives of those we serve. With CSU’s proximity to numerous healthcare institutions, rehabilitation centers, and educational facilities, we can offer students a wide range of clinical placements, volunteer experiences, and employment opportunities. By engaging directly with clients in real-world settings, our students develop the skills and empathy necessary to become not just proficient music therapists, but compassionate, community-centered professionals who are well-equipped to make a lasting difference in the field.

Come Visit Us!

Explore CSU Music Therapy: VIPS (Very Important Prospective Student) Visit Day!

December 2025 - details coming soon!

Discover all that our department offers in a special, immersive day designed for future students, parents, teachers, and counselors.

Highlights Include:

  • Class Observation: Get a live look at our teaching and curriculum.
  • Colloquium Lunch & Clinical Poster Session: See our students' practicum experiences firsthand over lunch. Connect with faculty and students to learn what makes our program unique.
  • Q&A Session: Ask questions and explore how CSU’s program aligns with your career goals.

For more information, email musictherapy@csuohio.edu 

Mailing Address
2121 Euclid Ave., MU 111
Cleveland, OH 44115

Campus Location
Music and Communication Building
2001 Euclid Avenue
Room 111
Cleveland, OH 44115

Contact
Phone: (216) 687-3807
musictherapy@csuohio.edu