1. Handbook
  2. Subjects
  3. Theory for Music Therapists 1

Theory for Music Therapists 1 (MUSI90041)

Graduate courseworkPoints: 12.5On Campus (Southbank) and Online

You’re viewing the 2026 Handbook:
Or view archived Handbooks

Overview

Availability
Semester 1 - On Campus
Semester 1 - Online
FeesLook up fees

This subject will introduce the underlying theoretical approaches that inform music therapy.  

Lecture topics will include foundational knowledge about professional processes, procedures, goals and the theories that commonly inform these processes. Foundational information about music therapy practice contexts and diagnostic information will be discussed in relation to the theoretical approaches presented. 

Note: This subject is offered in two cohorts:

  • Melbourne based students attend on-campus classes and activities
  • Interstate or regional students attend online classes and activities

Intended learning outcomes

On completion of this subject, students should be able to:

  • recognise core tenets of key fundamental theories underpinning music therapy practice;
  • use foundational theories to provide a rationale for selection of professional processes and procedures and diagnostic information applicable to examples of music therapy practice;
  • demonstrate preliminary understanding of variations in theoretical traditions across a range of practice contexts.

Generic skills

On completion of this subject, students should be able to:

  • demonstrate a commitment to intellectual curiosity and to staying well-informed;
  • communicate effectively in oral, written and digital forms;
  • develop and implement innovative and creative ideas;
  • integrate personal reflection into the creative process;
  • apply critical thinking, analytical and problem-solving skills to unfamiliar challenges.

Last updated: 21 January 2026