Meet student, Andrew Bucknall

"My lecturers and supervisors on placement are inspirational. We are so lucky to have some of the most knowledgeable and influential music therapists and researchers to guide us in our coursework. Some literally “wrote the book” (or at least, a book) in their area of expertise. Not only are they a great source of knowledge, but they also challenge us to think independently and to think about carving our own paths in the future.

The course is split into lectures on theory and practical workshops. The lectures usually conclude with learning tasks, in which students are able to practise and refine their understanding of the content by sharing their own thoughts. It’s a really valuable part of learning when you can hear other students’ ideas, and then gain further insight and guidance from the professionals.

Part of the course and a requirement of applying to be a registered music therapist is completing 640 hours of practical experience in a clinical placement. This offers a great opportunity to experience life as a music therapist in the real world, with support and guidance from a practising clinician.

Being thrust into practice on clinical placements – in some cases only weeks into the first semester – can be terrifying. However, with the support of the supervisors, being thrown in the deep end is a little less intimidating – and the feeling of accomplishment after running your own first session ever is amazing."

Read more about Andrew

Faculty of Fine Arts and Music

The course is taught at the Faculty of Fine Arts and Music, the proud home of the Victorian College of the Arts and the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music.

Much of the teaching, research and performance takes place in our purpose-built facilities on the University of Melbourne’s Southbank campus at the heart of the Melbourne Arts Precinct.

Recently, the Faculty’s Southbank campus has undergone large-scale capital works transforming our facilities and creating an industry-ready, world-class experience for our students and staff.

While studying at the Faculty, you will have the chance to benefit from a range of partnerships and engagement activities at major arts companies in Melbourne's Arts Precinct, local and national festivals and sister institutions around the world.

Explore the Faculty of Fine Arts and Music

Wilin Centre

Situated in the heart of Melbourne's Arts Precinct, the Wilin Centre for Indigenous Arts and Cultural Development provides exposure to contemporary Indigenous arts practices and supports the recruitment of Indigenous artists, academics and students.

Learn more about the Wilin Centre