Coursework

Master of Music Therapy

  • CRICOS code: 055550D

Admission criteria

To be considered for entry into this course, you must have completed:

  • An undergraduate degree (or equivalent) in any discipline, AND
  • 12.5 credit points of psychology studies at tertiary level, or Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) from the approved list, AND
  • High level music skills equivalent to 8th grade practical and 5th grade theory according to the Australian Music Examinations Board (AMEB), AND
  • Documented relevant work experience in community or health-related fields.

You must also submit:

  • A practice portfolio, AND
  • A personal statement.

Shortlisted applicants must also audition and attend an interview.

Meeting the published entry requirements for this course does not guarantee selection.

Don't meet the prerequisite subject requirements?

You may have the option to enrol in specific single subjects through the University's Community Access Program, even if you are not enrolled in a course. Completing these prerequisite subjects may qualify you for entry into this course. Learn more about single subject study.

English language requirements

All applicants to the University of Melbourne must satisfy the English language requirements. This may be achieved in a number of ways, including recognised previous study taught and assessed entirely in English or an approved English language test. If you are from a non-English speaking background, the required standard of English for this degree is one of the following English proficiency test scores:
  • English language test score requirements Chevron-down
  • If you need to undertake an English language test, you must meet one of the scores* below:

    • IELTS

      6.5


      with no band less than 6.0

      TOEFL

      79+


      with writing 21; speaking 18; reading 13; listening 13

      PEARSON

      58+


      with no communicative skill below 50

      CAMBRIDGE

      176+


      with no skill less than 169
    *Accepted tests: IELTS (Academic English Only); TOEFL Internet-based test; Pearson Test of English Academic; Cambridge English: Advanced/Certificate of Advanced English (CAE). If a test displays N/A, it means it is not accepted for this course.

About selection

When assessing applications, the Selection Committee will consider your previous studies and academic performance.

The Selection Committee may request additional information to clarify any aspect of an application, according to the University’s Academic Board rules regarding selection instruments.

Meeting the published entry requirements for this course does not guarantee selection.

The Selection Committee will also consider your demonstrated music skills, relevant work experience and practice portfolio.

If your application is shortlisted, you must attend an audition and interview, both of which will also be assessed as part of your application.

Your practice portfolio must include six pieces of music as follows:

  • Three pieces presented on your primary instrument, covering a range of contrasting styles. The pieces may be a combination of classical, jazz, improvisatory work etc. The three primary instrument recording must be completed in a single take.
  • Three vocal songs accompanied by your own guitar playing. The pieces should demonstrate your vocal skill across a range of genres, styles or decades. Your guitar accompaniment should demonstrate a minimum of basic skills, including first-position chords; barre chords; bass runs; and various accompanying styles such as strumming and picking techniques. Only one song can be an original composition, and one song in a language other than English is permitted (but not required). The three voice and guitar recordings must be completed in a single take.
  • The two recordings (3 primary instrument pieces and 3 vocal pieces) must be edited into a single file and uploaded via the supplementary application form.

Your personal statement should detail your reasons for wanting to undertake the Master of Music Therapy course.

Additional information

If your application is successful, you will be required to hold a current Working with Children Check and Police Check for the duration of your study.

Graduate Access Melbourne (GAM)

We encourage domestic students to explore eligibility for Graduate Access Melbourne (GAM). GAM offers an opportunity for admission to this course even if your tertiary marks are below the standard entry requirements. GAM applicants may also be considered for financial bursaries and Commonwealth Supported Places (CSPs) where available.

GAM categories include coming from a rural area, being an Indigenous Australian, experiencing financial hardship or personal difficulties, having refugee status, or living with a disability or medical condition. In assessing applications, we look to balance opportunity and your capacity to succeed.

Advanced Standing

Prior studies may be credited towards your degree and potentially reduce the duration of your course. This is known as Advanced Standing (also known as credit or recognition of prior learning).

Students with a Graduate Diploma in Music Therapy (or equivalent) may be eligible for up to 50 points credit.

For additional, in-depth details on entry requirements and admissions for this course, refer to the University Handbook.
Need more information on the University’s general entry requirements?