MUSC 485: Psychology of Music
Prerequisites: Senior standing
Credit Hours: (3)
The role and function of music in human existence with a focus on the objective and
scientific components of sound and music with their subsequent physiological, psychological,
intellectual/cognitive, and social effects.
Note(s): Required of all music therapy students and open to students in other curricula.
Detailed Description of Course Content
This course will emphasize the role and function of music in human existence with
a focus on the objective and scientific components of sound and music with their subsequent
physiological, psychological, intellectual/cognitive, and social effects on the listener.
Assessing the effects of these processes through traditional research methodologies
found in the field of music therapy will also be discussed in preparation for the
second semester of this two-course sequence. The learning outcomes for Psychology
of Music are that the student will have a functional understanding of:
• acoustics and psychoacoustics including the hearing anatomy
• music and the brain/perception of music
-structure/function of the brain
-structure/function of the nervous system
• additional major physiological systems of the human body
• immune
• endocrine
• psychophysiological response to stress
• evolution of western music/scale systems
• psychological effects of music elements including nature of consonance and dissonance
• aesthetics and affective response to music
This course will attempt to change the way one looks at (or has looked at) music –
not only as an art form, but a central element in our lives that has scientific roots.
As you can see from the list of learning goals, the class will investigate the phenomenon
of music with an objective eye toward its effects on human physiology, psychology
and function. This will help serve as a preparation for understanding music as an
art, its role in human learning and development, and as a therapeutic modality. Throughout
the course, references to, and examples of everyday practical interactions between
people and their music will be discussed in all aspects of human existence (i.e. psychological/emotional,
physical/physiological, intellectual/cognitive, social/cultural, and spiritual).
Detailed Description of Conduct of Course
The class is a combination of lecture and interactive discussion. Numerous print,
video, and web sources will be explored and discussed, many through the D2L system.
Goals and Objectives of the Course
Upon completion of MUSC 485, students will have:
• acquired an elementary, but working knowledge of acoustics and psycho acoustics.
• gained functional knowledge of the hearing anatomy.
• acquired a working understanding about music and brain function/perception of music.
• increased understanding of the effect of music on human physiology and function.
• gained practical knowledge of the psychological effects of the of music and its
elements.
• become conversant with psychological theories related to music and the arts.
• gained a working knowledge of the nature of aesthetics and affective reaction to
music.
Assessment Measures
Three exams @ 25% each
Short writing assignments and attendance/participation - 25%
Other Course Information
None
Review and Approval
Revised 2013
May 2006 Reviewed E. Fellin, Chairman
March 01, 2021