Master of Creative Music Therapy

The Master of Creative Music Therapy at the University of Western Sydney is delivered in partnership with Nordoff-Robbins Music Therapy Australia (opens in a new window). Its home, the Golden Stave Music Therapy Centre, on the University’s Penrith Campus at Kingswood, is the country’s only purpose-built facility.

You will be a part of intensive musical, therapeutic, and academic studies with an emphasis on clinical musicianship and supervised clinical work. The course takes a ‘hands on’ approach with work at the Golden Stave Centre and in external music therapy programs, under the professional supervision of Registered Music Therapists.

As you develop your deep awareness and understanding of music you will learn how to use it therapeutically through improvising, composing and arranging, to meet the needs of individuals and groups.

The course includes study of the history and professional development of music therapy, the various methodologies and theoretical constructs behind clinical work being carried out in more than 40 countries. The focus is on a deep, formal understanding of clinical and human issues that confront clinicians working in the community, as well as ethical and professional responsibilities.

Application Information

Applicants must have successfully completed an undergraduate degree in any discipline and must attend an audition in which their personal aptitude, musicianship and professional experience will be considered. For details of the audition procedure contact the Course Advisor on a.lem@uws.edu.au.

Applicants who are unable to attend the audition in person will undertake a remote audio-visual audition. Prior to the remote audition these applicants must submit a DVD demonstrating musical proficiency and an essay of 1,500 words, describing their knowledge of Creative Music Therapy and why they wish to study it. The essay should include at least four references and use APA format. For further information please contact the Course Advisor on a.lem@uws.edu.au.

Career Opportunities

Registered Music Therapists who have completed the Master of Creative Music Therapy are highly proficient musicians with a practical knowledge of music styles and techniques. In this role your understanding of the human condition, including disability and medical conditions, will equip you to build empathy with people as you open up channels of communication through music.

Registered music therapists in Australia will practise in hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centres, schools, nursing homes and community programs. Many work in multidisciplinary teams with responsibility for designing, implementing and evaluating specific treatment programs for clients.

How to Apply

All domestic applications for entry to UWS postgraduate courses must be made through the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC) (opens in a new window). Step by step instructions are available on the How to Apply pages.

All international applications for entry to UWS postgraduate courses must be made via the International Student Admission Application form. Step by step instructions are available on the International Admissions pages.

If you are interested in completing a higher research degree, for example Masters Honours, information is accessible from UWS Research (opens in a new window).