Music Therapy Queen Margaret University

Overview

The MSc Music Therapy at the Queen Margaret University is a practice-focused postgraduate programme that prepares students to become skilled, compassionate music therapy practitioners. Combining theoretical study with clinical placements, the course equips learners with the therapeutic, clinical and research skills needed to support clients across diverse settings and promote wellbeing through music-based interventions.

Why Music Therapy at Queen Margaret University?

Queen Margaret University (QMU) stands out as the only institution in Scotland offering a dedicated music therapy course. Recognised for its excellence in higher education, QMU has been awarded the title of Scottish Higher Education Institute of the Year for 2025. The university boasts a stimulating learning environment, enriched by interdisciplinary collaboration with other arts therapy programmes such as MSc Art Psychotherapy and MSc Dramatherapy. Students benefit from a well-rounded educational experience, combining academic learning with extensive practice placements across various settings, including hospitals, schools, and community organisations.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

The tuition fees for the Music Therapy programme are as follows:

• National students: £9,485 per year
• International students: £17,225 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The MSc Music Therapy programme is structured into two years, with a focus on practical learning and theoretical foundations. The curriculum includes the following modules:

• Practice-based Learning 1: This module supports the development of understanding in music therapy through direct practice, complemented by supervision and peer learning.
• Music Therapy Resources: This module encourages experiential learning to enhance musical and interpersonal skills relevant to therapy.
• Arts Therapies Studies 1: It introduces key developmental and relational perspectives in arts therapies, focusing on person-centred and psychodynamic frameworks.
• Practice-based Learning 2 : Building on the first year, this module involves more autonomous practice in diverse settings.
• Arts Therapies Studies 2: This module integrates theoretical knowledge across various therapy modalities and explores broader health and wellbeing contexts.
• Independent Academic Project : Students undertake a research project that reflects their learning and contributes new insights to the field of music therapy.

Industry Demand

Music therapy is increasingly recognised for its positive impact across various sectors, including healthcare, education, and community services. Graduates of the programme are well-equipped to meet the growing demand for qualified music therapists, with many finding employment in diverse settings such as hospitals, schools, and private practice.

Careers with Music Therapy

Graduates from the MSc Music Therapy programme have a strong employment rate, with many securing positions shortly after completing their studies. Alumni have reported working in various roles, including music therapists in healthcare settings, educational institutions, and community organisations. Some graduates have even established their own freelance practices, contributing to the expansion of music therapy services in the UK. The university provides robust career support, including workshops and networking opportunities with former students, to help graduates transition successfully into the workforce.