Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Neuroscience
Wilfrid Laurier University (WLU) offers a comprehensive Bachelor of Science program in ...
Bachelor of Music Therapy
Waterloo
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The Bachelor of Music Therapy program at Wilfrid Laurier University prepares students for careers in using music as a therapeutic tool to address physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs. This interdisciplinary program integrates music, psychology, and healthcare, equipping students with the skills and knowledge to become competent and compassionate music therapists. Through coursework, clinical placements, and experiential learning, students learn how to assess client needs, design music-based interventions, and facilitate therapeutic sessions to improve health outcomes and enhance quality of life.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the Bachelor of Music Therapy program is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in music theory, psychology, counseling, and clinical practice. Core courses cover topics such as music therapy techniques, clinical improvisation, psychology of music, developmental psychology, and group dynamics. Students also receive specialized training in voice, piano, guitar, percussion, and other instruments, enabling them to use music effectively in therapeutic settings. Clinical placements in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, mental health facilities, and community organizations allow students to apply their knowledge and skills in real-world contexts under the supervision of certified music therapists.
Research Focus: Wilfrid Laurier University's Bachelor of Music Therapy program emphasizes research and evidence-based practice in music therapy. Faculty members and students engage in research projects that explore the efficacy of music interventions for various populations and conditions, such as autism, dementia, depression, chronic pain, and trauma. Research-focused courses provide students with opportunities to critically evaluate existing literature, design research studies, collect data, and analyze findings. Through research-based learning experiences, students develop critical thinking skills, research literacy, and a deeper understanding of the theoretical foundations and clinical applications of music therapy.
Industry Engagement: The Bachelor of Music Therapy program at Wilfrid Laurier University fosters industry engagement through clinical placements, internships, and partnerships with healthcare providers, community organizations, and music therapy associations. Students have the opportunity to gain practical experience in diverse clinical settings, working with multidisciplinary teams to assess client needs, develop treatment plans, and deliver music therapy interventions. They may also participate in internships with hospitals, mental health centers, rehabilitation facilities, hospices, schools, or private practices, gaining valuable hands-on experience and professional networking opportunities in the field.
Global Perspective: Wilfrid Laurier University promotes a global perspective in its Bachelor of Music Therapy program, recognizing the universal language of music and its potential to transcend cultural, linguistic, and geographical boundaries. Students explore diverse musical traditions, cultures, and practices from around the world, learning how music is used therapeutically in different cultural contexts. They may have opportunities to participate in international exchange programs, study abroad experiences, or multicultural music therapy projects, gaining insights into the intersection of music, health, and culture on a global scale. By embracing diversity and cultural sensitivity, students graduate with a broader understanding of music therapy's impact and relevance in an increasingly interconnected world.
Location
Waterloo
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
CAD 32251
Application fee: CAD$ 80 + Applying through OUAC 105F Portal charges CAD$ 156 + International Charges CAD$ 10
Academic Requirements: International undergraduate applicants are typically required to have a minimum academic average of 70% or its equivalent in their secondary school studies.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: An overall band score of 6.5, with no individual band score less than 6.
- TOEFL: A minimum score of 83 on the internet-based test (iBT).
- PTE: A minimum score of 59 on the Pearson Test of English.
- DET: A minimum score of 120 on the Duolingo English Test.
Wilfrid Laurier University offers a range of scholarships and financial aid opportunities to support international students in their academic pursuits. These scholarships recognize outstanding academic achievement, leadership qualities, and community involvement.
International Student Entrance Scholarships: Wilfrid Laurier University offers several entrance scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships are awarded based on academic excellence and are available for both undergraduate and graduate students. The value of these scholarships varies, with some covering a significant portion of tuition fees.
President's Gold Scholarship of Distinction: This prestigious scholarship is awarded to exceptional incoming international undergraduate students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, leadership potential, and community involvement. Recipients of this scholarship receive a renewable award that covers a significant portion of their tuition fees.
International Student Scholarship: The International Student Scholarship is awarded to international undergraduate students who have demonstrated academic excellence and are entering their first year of study at Wilfrid Laurier University. The scholarship amount varies based on the student's academic achievements.
In-Course Scholarships: Wilfrid Laurier University also offers in-course scholarships for international students who have completed at least one year of study at the university. These scholarships are based on academic performance and may be awarded to students who have achieved a certain GPA or have excelled in specific areas of study.
Faculty-specific Scholarships: Some faculties and departments within Wilfrid Laurier University may offer scholarships and awards specific to their respective fields of study. These scholarships may be available to international students based on academic performance, leadership, or other criteria determined by the faculty or department.
External Scholarships and Partnerships: In addition to the university-specific scholarships, international students at Wilfrid Laurier University can also explore external scholarships and funding opportunities. The university has partnerships with various organizations and agencies that offer scholarships to international students, both at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
It is important to note that scholarship eligibility and application processes may vary, and some scholarships may have specific requirements or deadlines.
Graduating with a Bachelor of Music Therapy from Wilfrid Laurier University opens up a myriad of rewarding career opportunities in the field of music therapy.
Board-Certified Music Therapist: Graduates can pursue careers as board-certified music therapists, working in a variety of healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centers, psychiatric facilities, and long-term care facilities. Music therapists assess clients' needs, design personalized treatment plans, and implement music-based interventions to address physical, emotional, cognitive, and social goals. They may work with individuals or groups, using music to support healing, improve communication, reduce anxiety, manage pain, and enhance overall well-being.
Special Education Music Therapist: Graduates can specialize in working with children and adolescents with special needs in educational settings such as schools, special education centers, or early intervention programs. Special education music therapists use music to support the developmental, educational, and social goals of students with diverse abilities and challenges, including autism spectrum disorder, developmental delays, learning disabilities, and emotional or behavioral disorders. They collaborate with teachers, therapists, and families to create inclusive and supportive learning environments that promote growth, self-expression, and success for all students.
Geriatric Music Therapist: Graduates can work with older adults in geriatric care settings such as nursing homes, assisted living facilities, memory care units, and adult day programs. Geriatric music therapists use music to enhance quality of life, stimulate memories, reduce agitation, and promote social engagement and emotional well-being among older adults with dementia, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, or other age-related conditions. They may facilitate group music activities, lead sing-alongs, or provide individualized music therapy sessions tailored to the needs and preferences of each client.
Mental Health Music Therapist: Graduates can specialize in providing music therapy services to individuals with mental health disorders in psychiatric hospitals, outpatient clinics, addiction treatment centers, or community mental health programs. Mental health music therapists use music to address symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, eating disorders, and other mental health challenges, helping clients express emotions, develop coping skills, build self-awareness, and foster resilience and recovery. They may facilitate music therapy groups, lead songwriting or improvisation workshops, or provide individual counseling and support.
Palliative Care Music Therapist: Graduates can work in hospice settings or palliative care programs, providing music therapy services to patients and families facing serious illness, end-of-life care, or bereavement. Palliative care music therapists use music to provide comfort, alleviate pain, promote relaxation, and facilitate emotional expression and spiritual support for patients and their loved ones. They may offer live music at bedside, create personalized playlists, or facilitate legacy projects such as recording life stories or composing farewell songs, honoring the unique journeys and legacies of individuals facing the end of life.
Private Practice Music Therapist: Graduates can establish their own private music therapy practices, offering individual or group music therapy services to clients in their communities. Private practice music therapists may specialize in specific populations or clinical areas such as children with autism, adults with trauma, seniors with dementia, or individuals with mental health needs. They may collaborate with healthcare professionals, educators, and community organizations to provide comprehensive and integrated care that meets the unique needs and preferences of each client.
Researcher or Educator: Graduates with a passion for research and education can pursue careers as music therapy researchers, educators, or academic faculty members. They may work in universities, research institutes, or professional associations, conducting research studies, publishing scholarly articles, and teaching courses in music therapy theory, methods, and clinical practice. They may also supervise student interns, mentor aspiring music therapists, and contribute to the advancement of knowledge and evidence-based practice in the field of music therapy through their teaching, research, and professional leadership.
Community Music Therapist: Graduates can work in community-based settings such as nonprofit organizations, community centers, or outreach programs, providing music therapy services to underserved populations, marginalized communities, or individuals facing social, economic, or environmental challenges. Community music therapists use music to promote social justice, empowerment, and advocacy, addressing systemic barriers and promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion through their work. They may collaborate with community partners, grassroots organizations, and social service agencies to develop and implement music-based programs that address community needs and promote positive social change.
