M.A. Music Therapy

• Degree: Master of Arts (M.A.)
• Model: full-time
• Language: English
• ECTS: 120 ECTS
• Info: accredited
• Duration: 4 semesters/2 years
• Location: Heidelberg

More clinical institutions and therapeutic centres are focusing on evidence-based creative/artistic therapies.

Our music therapy Master's programme lasts two years and integrates an intensive work placement phase. The programme includes practical music lessons, therapeutic techniques, and scientific content. We specialise in music therapy in psychiatry, psychosomatics, psychotherapy, and neurology. You will also learn how to use music to treat people in a wide variety of circumstances.

Our philosophy is to combine teaching, practice and research under one roof. We teach you music therapy, music and psychological/medical course content with a focus on direct application. You can practise and further develop the knowledge and skills acquired in two internships. You can actively participate in the faculty's ongoing research projects and pursue applied research in research projects and the master’s thesis. 

The scientific foundations, methodological skills and professional qualifications acquired in the Master's programme in Music Therapy will enable you to work in a clinical, curative or special educational context. It enables you to pursue a career in research and work towards a doctorate in addition to various practical activities.

Possible fields of work include

• Psychiatry
• Psychosomatics/psychotherapy
• Paediatrics, child and adolescent psychiatry and psychotherapy
• Neurology (early rehabilitation, rehabilitation and psychosocial aftercare)
• Pain, palliative medicine

Skills in music therapy transfer easily to other clinical fields, such as forensics, geriatrics, or neonatology. Establishing a private practice in Germany is regulated by law via the Heilpraktikergesetz (Alternative Practitioners' Act) and requires a separate state examination (alternative practitioner for psychotherapy). Please note that certification, licensure, and other matters related to the profession of music therapy are handled differently in different countries.

Note: graduates who wish to work as a music therapist in Germany require at least B2-level German skills.

The Master's degree in Music Therapy at SRH University offers an in-depth, applied education that combines scientific principles with practical experience. It provides sound knowledge in the fields of clinical psychology, neurology and research. A particular focus is on the application of music therapy methods in various clinical and educational contexts.

Students not only acquire basic musical and therapeutic skills, but also deepen these in advanced modules. These include evidence-based approaches in pain therapy, diagnostics in the field of paediatric therapy and Community Music Therapy. Legal, ethical and professional aspects of music therapy are also covered. The curriculum includes extensive internships that allow students to gain practical experience in clinical settings.

Graduates are prepared for practical work in therapeutic and educational institutions as well as for an academic career, which can lead to a doctorate, for example.

1st Semester

1. Scientific foundations – 6 ECTS
2. Basics of music therapy – 6 ECTS
3. Psychological basics – 6 ECTS
4. Basic instrumental techniques – 6 ECTS
5. Clinical Psychology I (Psychotherapy Approaches) – 6 ECTS

2nd Semester

1. Clinical Psychology II (Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy) – 12 ECTS
2. Neurology and quantitative research methods – 6 ECTS
3. Basic musical skills – 6 ECTS
4. Clinical internship – 6 ECTS

3rd Semester

1. Evidence-based clinical practice (pain) – 6 ECTS
2. Diagnostics and practical field children – 6 ECTS
3. Artistic therapies and specific fields of practice – 6 ECTS
4. Advanced musical competences – 6 ECTS
5. In-depth internship – 6 ECTS

4th Semester

1. Professionalisation, law and ethics – 14 ECTS
2. Thesis – 16 ECTS

"Introduction to research in the therapeutic sciences"

Little experience in scientific work?

Take advantage of our pre-module in September to prepare yourself specifically for your Master's degree programme in therapeutic sciences and optimally refresh your knowledge of scientific work - especially if you have an international or diverse background.

The module "Introduction to Research in Therapeutic Sciences" teaches you the basic skills of scientific work in the context of therapeutic sciences. It offers you the opportunity to familiarise yourself with relevant research methods and processes before you start your studies - in a practical and well-founded manner.

In addition to technical and methodological skills, social and personal skills are crucial today. SRH University 's innovative, successful and award-winning CORE principle promotes independent and active learning so that you can apply your knowledge directly in practice - for a clear competitive advantage.

To apply for the Master's degree in Music Therapy, you will need

• Proof of a first academic degree (Bachelor's, Diplom or Magister) in music, social work/ special education, psychology, nursing medicine or a comparable degree. If you have not graduated yet, apply with existing transcripts.
• Curriculum vitae
• Proof of English language proficiency
• Letter of motivation
• Copy of your identity card or passport

English language requirements:

Accepted English Proficiency Certificates (valid within 2 years), with at least the indicated score:

• IELTS Academic: 6.5
• TOEFL iBT: 87 points
• TOEIC Listening/Reading 785, Speaking 160, Writing 150
• Duolingo Certificate: 110 points
• Cambridge CAE or CPE (grade A, B, or C)
• Pearson English Test Academic (PTE-A): 59 points
• Linguaskill: 176 - 184 (CES) - all four skills required