Postgraduate course
Master of Creative Music Therapy
Western Sydney University
Courses included
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This course has been cancelled
About
This program is one of two accredited music therapy programs in Australia, which allows applicants to be a registered music therapist with the Australian Music Therapy Association (AMTA).
Learn how to use music therapeutically through improvising, composing and arranging, to meet the needs of individuals and groups, as you develop your deep awareness and understanding of music. Work in external music therapy placements with people at all stages of life, from early childhood settings, palliative care and rehabilitation environments – all under the professional supervision of registered music therapists.
The program 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.
In addition to clinical placements, students will be engaged with reflective practice and critical thinking process through research.
Note: Limited CSP for 2025.
Admission criteria
- undergraduate degree, or higher, in music, creative arts, education, allied health, counselling or psychology
Submit a 3-page statement that includes:
- 500-word statement explaining the reasons you are seeking entry to the program and why you want to become a music therapist
- 300-words providing information on your relevant music and other related experiences/training/qualifications (use dot points where needed)
- three video links of performances that must include:
- Any piece on your main instrument, demonstrating your skills at an advanced level (‘advanced’ instrument may also be guitar, piano or voice);
- Any song utilising the guitar and voice simultaneously (as best able given your current level of training/experience);
- Any song utilising the piano and voice simultaneously (as best able given your current level of training/experience).
Please note that ‘advanced level’ refers to the ability to confidently perform advanced pieces fluently, at a high level of proficiency and complexity, demonstrating an advanced level of mastery on this instrument.
Upload your statement as a PDF within the UAC application as soon as possible after applying through UAC and at the latest by the final UAC closing date.
Applicants who meet the admission requirements will be considered for the audition/interview and contacted by the Academic Program Advisor if considered suitable to progress to this next stage of the process.
Audition/Interview
If you are invited to attend an audition/interview you should be prepared to further elaborate on the information within your 3-page PDF provided in your application. You should also be prepared to demonstrate your music skills by performing the same or similar pieces provided as video links within your application. In addition, you may be asked to demonstrate competent musicianship skills through basic aural technical exercises.
Further detailed information is provided at the time of application in the ‘Master of Creative Music Therapy Applicant Information Page’.
Fees and charges
^ Limited CSP for 2025. Call Western Sydney University on 1300 897 669 for further information about tuition fees.
Australian Government financial assistance
Western Sydney University scholarships and financial assistance
Further information
Read the full course details on the Western Sydney University website.
Find out more about postgraduate study at Western.
Contact the Course Information Centre on 1300 897 669 if you have any queries.
Western Sydney University degrees
The academic content of all programs is subject to routine review.