Music Therapy at the NZSM

While it is not possible to study Music Therapy at an undergraduate level at the NZSM you may take the postgraduate paper, NZSM 491 - Music Therapy Principles as an introduction into this field of study.

NZSM 491- Music Therapy Principles

This paper aims to develop in students the conceptual skills and knowledge to understand the work of a music therapist in a therapeutic team and to identify and respond to the varied needs of clients and associated caregivers. (This paper does not entitle you to practice as a music therapist.)

Master of Music Therapy - MMusTher

This is the only New Zealand programme that trains graduates to become professional music therapists. The two-year programme, developed in association with the New Zealand Society for Music Therapy, requires applicants to hold a degree relevant to Music Therapy and to have undertaken some study of Psychology or another approved social science discipline. An audition and interview are required for entry to the programme. Successful graduates are eligible to apply for accreditation as Registered Music Therapists.

Audition Application Form - Music Therapy
(Application for Master of Music Therapy)

Requirements

Part I
NZSM 520 Music Therapy Principles
NZSM 521 World Musics & Music Therapy
NZSM 522 Music Therapy Methods
NZSM 523 Music Therapy Practicum

Either - NZSM 524 Independent Study
Or - NZSM 525 Special Topic: Music Therapy

Part II
NZSM 526 Case Work & Research

Entry Requirements

As required by World Federation of Music Therapy, the programme selects students on assessment of music skill, academic qualification, and suitability of personal qualities, and promotes students’ personal growth and professional development. 

1. Admission to the course shall be subject to the approval of the Academic Board.  Relevance and standard of undergraduate studies will be criteria for approval.

2. Before enrolment, candidates shall have:

1. been admitted to an undergraduate degree relevant to Music Therapy, or have been granted admission with equivalent status as entitled to proceed to the degree of Master of Music Therapy.
2. completed at least 25 points in Psychology or other approved social science disciplines (candidates may be permitted to complete this requirement concurrently).   Note – 25 points at Massey represents two papers which meet 3x weekly for a semester (each being worth 12.5 points.  Point and credit systems work differently at other universities.  Check with the Music Therapy Programme Coordinator for  psychology papers appropriate for entrance).
3. satisfied the Academic Board through audition and interview that they have the appropriate academic, life experience and musical ability to diploma or similar level in classical (Western or non-Western), jazz, or contemporary music.  This ability includes a comprehensive musical training.

In addition to proficiency in the instrument (or voice) used to audition, practical guitar, voice, and keyboard skills are also required for entry into the programme.  Students may continue individual studies (outside of class) in these music skills areas concurrent with coursework.  For more information, see the audition guidelines on pages 4-5.

Application Procedures and Deadlines

The Music Therapy Programme accepts a maximum of 10 new students each year. Before applying to the university, interested persons should contact the Music Therapy Programme Leader to find out more about music therapy and the programme. Once it is determined that a student has an appropriate and suitable background and training, he/she will be asked to submit:

1. A curriculum vita (C.V.).  The C.V. should detail the candidates educational background and music performance level(s) attained.  The C.V. should also detail work or personal experience relevant to applying for the Music Therapy Programme. 
2. Names and contact information for two professional/academic references/referees (see page 12).
3. Official transcripts/academic record and copies of diplomas from all related tertiary studies and a copy of your diploma from the highest music  level attained (e.g. LTCL, ATCL, etc.).   
4. Disclosure statement and record of criminal history (see page 11).

The scheduled deadline for receipt of C.V.’s and transcripts by the Conservatorium and Programme Coordinator is 15 September.  Materials received following that date will be considered as programme space availability permits.
After review of C.V. and transcripts by the Conservatorium and Programme Leader, the candidate may then be invited to audition and interview.  After successfully auditioning and interviewing, the student will then officially apply to and enrol at Massey.

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