Programme details

Master of Music Therapy – MMusTher

Channel your passion for music into transforming lives by joining New Zealand's sole program dedicated to training graduates as professional music therapists.

Course description

Discover how to utilize music to enhance the development and wellbeing of individuals facing complex emotional, intellectual, physical, or social challenges.

Our program provides a thorough foundation in music therapy, combining theoretical study with hands-on practice in clinical or community settings. You’ll integrate insights gained from practical experiences into a research project, further advancing your understanding and skills.

At the New Zealand School of Music (NZSM), you’ll learn from experienced staff who are dedicated music therapists with extensive professional backgrounds.

If you possess a mature, compassionate attitude, along with curiosity, critical thinking abilities, and a passion for practical, creative music-making, this program is tailored for you.

Developed in collaboration with Music Therapy New Zealand (MThNZ), our program encourages you to join this organization during your training, fostering connections with fellow professionals and the supportive community.

Upon graduation, you’ll be eligible to apply for accreditation as a Registered Music Therapist through the Music Therapy Registration Board of MThNZ, preparing you for a rewarding career in music therapy.

Specialisations

Available qualifications
– Master of Music Therapy by coursework and research
– Master of Music Therapy by research

Most students do the Master of Music Therapy by coursework and research, which is in two parts. In Part 1 you’ll do coursework and in Part 2 you’ll do casework and research.

If you’re already a music therapist with an appropriate postgraduate qualification you can go straight to Part 2—the Master of Music Therapy by research.

Occupational Registration

Certain occupations require registration by law in New Zealand. This programme leads to registration with Music Therapy New Zealand (MThNZ).

Immigration benefits

This course qualifies for 5 points if applying for residency under the Skilled Migrant Category.

This course may qualify for the following visa rights:
In-study work rights
Partner visitor rights
Partner work rights
Post-study work rights

Career Prospects

Graduates often pursue careers as registered music therapists in a variety of settings, including special schools, autistic units, early intervention centers, hospices, rest homes, and community mental health services.

While music therapy is relatively new in New Zealand, the field is expanding. Though full-time positions may be limited, many therapists establish full-time work by building a diverse portfolio of contracts across different services and centers. This approach allows for a dynamic and impactful career in music therapy.

Entry requirements

– A Bachelor’s degree relevant to Music Therapy
– To pass an audition
– To have completed courses worth 30 points in Psychology or another approved social science discipline
– To be approved by the head of school of the New Zealand School of Music as capable of proceeding with the proposed course of study

EL requirement (any one of the following)
– IELTS (Academic): Minimum overall score of 6.5, with no sub-score below 6.0
– TOEFL (Internet-based test): Minimum score of 90, with at least 20 in writing
– Pearson Test of English: Minimum score of 58, with a ‘Communicative’ score of no less than 50
– EAP: Minimum final scores of 4, 4, 5, 5
– Cambridge English Qualifications: C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency with a score of 176 or higher, with each skill score no less than 169
– New Zealand Certificates in English Language (NZCEL): Level 5 (Academic)
– NZAPA: English New Zealand Accredited Pathway Assessment Level 3, with no skill lower than Level 2