MA Music Therapy

Applicants normally need an undergraduate degree (minimum 3rd class), usually in music. Degrees or professional qualifications in related areas such as psychology, teaching, nursing, social work, performing arts, or healthcare may also be accepted if sufficient musical skills are demonstrated.
Applicants must show they can meet Masters-level academic demands and submit a written personal statement.
A high level of musicianship on one or more instruments (including voice) is required, as well as confidence with vocal skills. Applicants should have keyboard or equivalent harmony instrument ability.
Applicants must demonstrate potential to apply musical skills in professional Music Therapy and communicate musically. Extensive playing experience, whether professional or otherwise, is expected. Music skills are assessed through submitted recordings and an interview/audition.
Applicants should understand the nature of Music Therapy as practised in the UK.
They must show maturity, self-awareness, emotional literacy, resilience, and psychological mindfulness, including the ability to form empathic relationships. These qualities are assessed through the application, interview questions, and experiential tasks.
Applicants need relevant experience with service users, such as work with children, adults, or older adults in areas including learning disabilities, mental health, hospice or dementia care, neuro-disability, or homelessness. This may be voluntary or paid.
Non-native English speakers must have an IELTS score of at least 7.0, with no element below 6.5.
Two referees are required: one academic and one professional. References are obtained before offers are made.
Successful applicants must undertake mandatory individual personal therapy (fees separate from course costs).
An enhanced DBS check is required (fees separate). A volunteer check is not accepted. Applicants who have lived in any one non-UK country for 12 months or more since age 18, or within the last 10 years if over 28, must also provide international DBS clearance.

On completing this programme, you will be eligible for HCPC registration, the gateway to professional practice, and will be able to pursue careers in:

Music therapy practice across the NHS, social care, education and the charitable sector
Leadership and management roles within therapy services or community projects
Entrepreneurial ventures, setting up social enterprises, charities or CICs
Specialist areas such as mental health, paediatrics, older adults or learning disabilities
Interdisciplinary health and care settings, applying transferable skills in teamwork, communication, ethics, reflective practice and analysis

Professional Practice in the Arts and Play Therapies
Music Therapy Theory and Practice
Music Therapy Placement 1
Research Informed Professional Practice
Music Therapy Placement 2: Capstone Project
Reflective Practice and Professional Development