Master in Music Therapy (full time)
The full-time, 2-year Master in Music Therapy (MMT) Programme equips students to become full members of the music therapy profession, with a well-regarded professional, research and clinical training.
The programme is validated by the City University and recognised at government level. Graduating students are eligible to register with the Health Professions Council and use the protected title music therapist.
Without this recognition it is impossible to practice as a music therapist in the UK. The training is in line with proposed standards in Europe that are currently being developed by the European Music Therapy Confederation and international candidates often make up part of our student body. We are known for the highest clinical and research standards and all students over the past years have found paid employment after graduation.
About the MMT Programme
The Nordoff-Robbins approach to music therapy developed from the pioneering work of Paul Nordoff and Clive Robbins in the 1950/60s. It is grounded in the belief that everyone can respond to music - no matter how ill or disabled. Client and therapist improvise music together, building a creative musical relationship in which a therapeutic process takes place and change can be supported. The unique qualities of music as therapy enhance communication and can help people to live more resourcefully and creatively.
“…once (a musician) begins to work as a therapist, he will find new depths in the art of music itself.” Paul Nordoff
While the training focuses primarily on developing clinical musical skills, the course will also introduce students to other theoretical perspectives such as early infant development and psychodynamics. You will be encouraged to integrate these concepts into your thinking about the music therapy relationship. You will also be studying in a vibrant multi-cultural environment with placements in a wide variety of schools and community settings.
The MMT course meets the requirements for Registration to the Health Professions Council in the UK and graduates qualify for membership of the Association for Professional Music Therapists (APMT). Music therapists trained at the Centre go on to work in the fields of health, education, social services and the prison service, and many graduates also do research.
Qualified music therapists already holding the Diploma in Nordoff-Robbins Music Therapy can upgrade to the MMT by completing the dissertation requirements.
Detailed Outline
At the heart of the training is the development of each student from musician to music therapist. The course focuses on developing a high level of skill in five core areas:
1. Musical
- Individual/small group tuition in improvisation techniques and keyboard skills
- Teaching of musical idioms and a wide range of cross-cultural musical resources
- Extensive work on keyboard, voice, percussion and other instruments
- Weekly group improvisation sessions and additional workshops/visit.
2. Therapeutic
- Observation of clinical work and case study presentations.
- Indivdidual and group sessions with children and adults both on-site and in the community.
- Intensive clinical supervision.
3. Personal
- Weekly confidential personal music therapy.
- Weekly confidential support group facilitated by a psychotherapist.
- Weekly dance-movement and voice sessions to develop body-awareness and integrated use of the voice.
4. Academic
- Music therapy theory.
- Teaching on research methods.
- Personal academic supervision.
- Lectures in psychiatry, disability, child development and other specialist areas.
5. Professional
- Assessment and documentation.
- Presentation skills.
- Multi-disciplinary teamwork.
The training prepares students for good professional practice in all clinical areas and for private practice.
Professional Opportunities
Graduates qualify for membership of the Association of Professional Music Therapists (APMT). Music therapist trained at the Centre work in the fields of health, education, social services and the prison services, and many graduates also do research.
Graduates from the Nordoff-Robbins MMT course are part of a growing body of practising music therapists working in Britain today. Music therapists are now registered with the Health Professions Council.
Is this course right for me?
The MMT course is an intensive postgraduate training in music therapy and requires high levels of musical, academic and personal skills. Before applying, consider if this course is right for you.
Being a music therapist demands musicianship, personal maturity and interpersonal skills. Musical skills are essential, but often it is your life experience and flexibility as a musician (whatever your style or training) which matters. As a guide, applicants should normally meet the following criteria for entry to the MMT course:
- An undergraduate degree or diploma or equivalent professional experience (not necessarily in music)
- Some experience of work with children or adults affected by disease, disability or trauma
- A high level of skill on your first instrument (approximately Grade 8 or equivalent)
- A good standard of keyboard skills, including keyboard harmony
- Written and spoken proficiency in English to IELTS level 6.5 or equivalent
Preferably some experience of personal psychotherapy.
The Application process
Applications are accepted throughout the year. Selected applicants will be invited to a preliminary musical audition. In special circumstances applicants may submit a videotape instead of attending the first interview - please ask about this.
Those successful in the first stage will be invited for a second audition and interview before a selection panel.
Further Information
- If you would like to find out more, please visit the Centre and attend one of our two annual Open Evenings about the MMT training. The next Open Evening will be held on Wednesday 11 June 2008 at 6.30 pm. Contact Simon Procter, Programme Director, for further details.
- To request a prospectus please email your postal address to: reception@nordoff-robbins.org.uk
- To ask us any questions that are not answered via the links, please go to the Contact page
