The M.A. in Music Therapy is a two-year (four semesters) full-time programme for individuals who are aspiring to become a music therapist. The programme encompasses a wide spectrum of courses, including core, specialized and advanced courses, and offers two options in the study programme: “Plan A: Thesis Programme” and “Plan B: Non-thesis Programme”
| Course plan | Plan A: Thesis Option | Plan B: Non-Thesis Option |
|---|---|---|
| Core course | 38 credits | 38 credits |
| Elective course | 2 credits | 8 credits |
| Thesis | 12 credits | - |
| Independent Study(IS) | - | 6 credits |
| Comprehensive exam | - | S/U‡ |
Note. IS is a scaled-down thesis employing the same procedure as a regular thesis; ‡satisfactory/unsatisfactory.
Core Courses (38 credits)
– Developmental Music Therapy
– Psychology and Neuroscience of Music
– Music Psychotherapy
– Medical Music Therapy
– Quantitative Research in Music Therapy
– Qualitative Research in Music Therapy
– Introduction to Music Therapy
– Music Therapy Assessment
– Professional Ethics in Music Therapy
– Song and Recreative Methods
– Clinical Music Improvisation
– Receptive Methods in Music Therapy
– Self-Experience in Music Therapy I & II
– Music Therapy Practicum I & II
– Music Therapy Internship I & II
Elective Courses
Plan A (2 credit); Plan B (8 credit)
– Seminar on Selected Topics in
Music Therapy I & II
– Selected Topics in Music Therapy I & II
– Palliative Care
– Human Disabilities
– Introduction to Music Therapy in Asia
– Music Therapy and Society
– Encountering Psychology
– Psychology of Human Development
– Psychopathology across Life-Span
Thesis / Independent Study
Plan A – Thesis 12 Credits
Plan B – Independent Study 6 Credits
The Master of Arts in Music Therapy program features a Hybrid Learning Model, blending the convenience of online study with the immersive experience of onsite in-person instruction. Students engage in 6-8 weeks of comprehensive online coursework from their own homes, followed by two weeks of intensive, hands-on classes held in Bangkok twice a year, in March and October. This innovative approach offers a perfect balance, combining the flexibility of distance learning with the dynamic interaction of face-to-face sessions.
3.1 Real time on-line classes on Zoom:
Live Zoom classes provide a cutting-edge approach to conveying theoretical and didactic information about music therapy, equipping aspiring clinicians with in-depth knowledge of both theory and research. This advanced instructional program is designed to foster highly skilled professionals in the field who will contribute to the development of music therapy in the Asian region.
3.2 Biannual intensive classes in Bangkok:
Chulalongkorn University’s intensive learning period is a cornerstone of its music therapy program, inviting students to Bangkok for two weeks each in March and October. This hands-on experience transcends traditional learning, immersing students in the roles of both client and therapist through experiential learning and role-plays. Students experience the power of healing music through a series of group musicking, creative improvisations, and song creation and sharing. The simulation sessions emphasize the in-depth learning process where students develop and share their unique approaches to music therapy. This biannual, immersive period is not just educational, but a transformative journey in understanding and applying music therapy in real-world settings.
Our clinical training program is meticulously designed to offer year-round engagement for our students. Upon registering for either practicum or internship each semester, students undergo a systematic process of training beginning with observation. This foundational stage progresses to participating in joint sessions, ultimately leading to conducting independent sessions. This process is carefully monitored and guided by a dedicated on-site supervisor, coupled with the insightful oversight of a university clinical supervisor.
In scenarios where an on-site music therapist is not available, our university clinical supervisors step in to fill the gap, or they connect the student with a seasoned music therapy supervisor. This ensures enhanced supervision and support, equipping our students to thrive in their practicum settings.
The cornerstone of our program is the extensive clinical training hours that our students accumulate, ranging from approximately 900 to 1,000 hours. This substantial exposure not only cements their practical skills but also enriches their professional readiness, preparing them to excel as future music therapists. Our commitment is to foster a profound understanding and skillful application of music therapy, ensuring our graduates are synonymous with excellence in the field.
