A high level of music skills in performance. A degree qualification (Level 8 - National Qualifications Authority of Ireland) or equivalent in any of the following; music, psychology, health sciences, medicine, education or related discipline. Ability to play guitar and piano, and sing competently. Ability to improvise on primary instrument. Relevant Work Experience (paid or voluntary) of working with vulnerable populations in health or social care settings. A willingness to engage with the personal development opportunities in the course through attending the self-funded psychotherapy component. An interview/audition will be offered to short-listed candidates who will be required to perform pieces on their first instrument and sing at least one song accompanying themselves on piano and guitar. It is not possible to enter the course without successfully completing the audition process.

Garda clearance is also required for this programme.

What to Include with your Application - Please note you must upload these documents with your application as supporting information in order to have your application considered.

Qualification transcripts and/or certificates (including certified English translations if applicable)
A copy of your birth certificate/passport
2 letters of references
A Supporting Statement (maximum 1 x A4 page) outlining (1) why you wish to undertake the MA in Music Therapy (2) Relevant work or voluntary experience you believe is relevant to your application (3) Musical experience and (4) any other information you feel supports your application.
A short recording (max five minutes) of yourself with 2 musical excerpts (1) playing their primary instrument; then (2) singing accompanied by either piano or guitar. Recordings should be saved to an online sharing platform (such as Youtube or Vimeo), with the link to this included in a separate document entitled 'Music Links'. - Please note that ONLY music audio and video files that cannot be uploaded can be emailed to [email protected]. All other files must be uploaded.

If your qualifications have been obtained in a country where English is an official language this will suffice
If this is not available, the following additional documents must be provided:
• English translation of your qualification(s)/transcripts
AND
• English language competency certificate

Applicants from Ireland and the UK are expected to attend for audition in person. Applicants from other countries will be expected to audition via telephone/Skype interview. Accompanists are not provided for the audition. Should an accompanist be required then it is up the candidate to arrange and fund this themselves.

Note: Due to Covid-19 restrictions, any interviews or auditions (as required by the Course Director) during the application process will now take place virtually.

Preparing your Application:
1. Research your programme: Each postgraduate programme at University of Limerick is unique. Explore your course content, duration, fees, and entry requirements on ul.ie.

2. Check Eligibility: Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for the course you are interested in. This usually includes your undergraduate degree award, subject specialities, English language proficiency (for non-native speakers), and any specific requirements for the course.

3. Prepare Documents: Gather all the necessary documents. This typically includes your academic transcripts, CV, personal statement, and references. If English is not your first language, you’ll also need to provide evidence of your English language proficiency.

4. Online Application: Once you are ready to apply, visit your postgraduate programme page on ul.ie/gps and use the Apply Now button to access UL’s online application system. You will need to create an account if you are a new user.

5. Complete the Application: Fill in the application form with all the required details. This will include personal information and academic history.

6. Upload Documents: Upload all the necessary documents that you prepared earlier. Make sure they are clear and legible.

7. Submit Application: Review your application thoroughly to ensure all information is correct and then submit your application. The application fee for your postgraduate application is €50. This includes an option to choose a second choice.

8. Track Your Application: After submission, you can track the status of your application through the online application system.

9. Interview: Depending on the programme, you may be invited for an interview. This could be in person or online.

10. Acceptance: If your application is successful, you will receive an offer email from the university. You will need to accept this offer to secure your place.

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and places offered to successful candidates. This means that it’s a good idea to apply as early as possible to increase your chances of securing a place.

Please note that these steps are a general guide and the exact process may vary depending on the specific programme and your individual circumstances. Always check the University of Limerick website or contact the postgraduate admissions department for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Autumn

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This course is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests. If these interests do not describe you, this course may prepare you for work you may not find satisfying.

Creative

Creative people are drawn to careers and activities that enable them to take responsibility for the design, layout or sensory impact of something (visual, auditory etc). They may be atrracted to the traditional artistic pursuits such as painting, sculpture, singing, or music. Or they may show more interest in design activities, such as architecture, animation, or craft areas, such as pottery and ceramics.

Creative people use their personal understanding of people and the world they live in to guide their work. Creative people like to work in unstructured workplaces, enjoy taking risks and prefer a minimum of routine.

Social

The Social person's interests focus on interacting with the people in their environment. In all cases, the Social person enjoys the personal contact with other people in preference to the impersonal dealings with things, data and ideas found in other groups.

Many will seek out positions where there is direct contact with the public in some advisory role, whether a receptionist or a counsellor. Social people are motivated by an interest in different types of people and like diversity in their work environments. Many are drawn towards careers in the caring professions and social welfare area, whilst others prefer teaching and other 'informing' roles.

Graduate careers
Graduates of the MA in Music Therapy have attained successful careers in the health and education services in Ireland and abroad. Graduates work in special schools, nursing homes, hospice services, residential services for adults with intellectual disability and adults who have acquired brain injury.