International Programmes 2024/2025

Dance Movement Therapy (MA) Dance Movement Therapy (MA)

SRH Universities • Heidelberg

Degree
Master of Arts
Teaching language
  • English
Languages

Courses are held in English (100%).

Full-time / part-time
  • full-time
Programme duration
4 semesters
Beginning
Winter semester
Additional information on beginning, duration and mode of study

Beginning: 1 October

Mode of study: We believe that sustainable learning is only possible if there is enough space for experimentation, games and critical thinking. That is why we have completely restructured the classical course of studies. Read more about our CORE Principle.

Application deadline

There are no application deadlines, so you can apply at any time until all of the places in the programme have been filled.

Tuition fees per semester in EUR
5,100 EUR
Additional information on tuition fees

Applicants from EEA countries: 690 EUR per month + one-time registration fee of 750 EUR

Applicants from non-EEA countries without a permanent residence permit: 5,100 EUR per semester + one-time registration fee of 1,000 EUR

Combined Master's degree / PhD programme
No
Joint degree / double degree programme
No
Description/content

Dance Movement Therapy is the evidence-based use of dance and movement in therapy for promoting the physical, emotional, cognitive, social, and spiritual integration of individuals and systems of individuals. As an arts therapy approach it uses creative methods to engage clients and support their ability to express themselves, connect socially, and seek emotional well-being.

In both research and clinical practice, there is an increasing interest in dance movement therapy approaches as important additions to standard care. The professional context of dance movement therapists is not limited to traditional areas of practice such as psychiatry, psychosomatic medicine, or special education. Dance Movement Therapy is also applied to neurology, oncology, cardiovascular medicine, etc. It is also increasingly applied to preventive care. Dance movement therapists work in the following fields:

  • psychiatry
  • psychosomatics and psychotherapy
  • neurology
  • geriatrics
  • forensic contexts
  • paediatrics
  • intensive medicine centres (for example, neurology, oncology, pain) and sub-acute care facilities
  • psychosocial institutions for children and families with special needs, disabilities, and early intervention
  • institutions of prevention and education (e.g. schools, youth offers, kindergartens)
Course organisation

The applied Master's course of dance movement therapy at the SRH in Heidelberg was developed within the framework of the European alignment and recognition of university degrees (Bologna process) and accredited in 2012. It offers graduates of artistic or psychosocial study programmes a qualified education in dance movement therapy.
In contrast to other Master's courses in Germany, this programme is designed as a two-year full-time programme. It generally begins in the winter semester on 1 October. The programme details can be found in the official programme handbook. The programme contains 120 ECTS points (European Credit Transfer System), and students achieve a state-approved degree with worldwide access to doctoral programmes. The language of the programme is English.
The applied Master's degree in dance movement therapy contains the following modules:

Module 1: Introduction to therapy sciences
Module 2: Introduction to dance therapy
Module 3: Psychology & psychotherapy
Module 4: Dance and movement therapy procedures
Module 5: Clinical psychology (mental health)
Module 6: Neurology & quantitative research methods
Module 7: Dance and movement procedures II
Module 8: Clinical placement 
Module 9: Evidence-based clinical practice 
Module 10: Assessment & clinical practice with children and adolescents
Module 11: Arts therapies and specific applications
Module 12: Dance and movement therapy and interdisciplinary approaches
Module 13: Advanced placement (clinical or research)
Module 14: Professionalisation, law, and ethics
Module 15: Master's thesis 

The advantages of our high-quality programme include the following:

  • We offer small study groups.
  • Our competence model: The competencies that are required by employers and practice are the foundation of the curricular study structure.
  • Five-week units are aligned to one practice-related subject.
  • Transparent study organisation with evaluation and clearly defined, competence-oriented exam settings is specifically tailored to the respective content.
  • Activating teaching methods, including case studies, seminars, group work, presentations, role play, etc., are implemented.
  • Education partnership: Academic/professional, organisational, and personal support is offered by mentors.
  • Specially equipped facilities, such as PC studios and practice rooms, allow medial support for music notation, therapy analysis, etc.
  • Students have access to state-of-the-art musical equipment.
  • An international study flair is achieved through student exchange with selected universities and clinics.
  • There is an opportunity for an individual focus within the study programme.
  • There is close collaboration between the educative music therapy outpatient centre and the study courses.
  • Quality assurance is guaranteed through regular, confidential evaluation and open exchange between lecturers and students.
  • Students gain insight into research projects within and beyond the School of Therapeutic Sciences.
  • The programme features guest lecturers in the context of academic colloquia, teaching exchange, or research partnerships.
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A Diploma supplement will be issued
Yes
International elements
  • International guest lecturers
  • Language training provided
  • Training in intercultural skills
  • Projects with partners in Germany and abroad
  • International comparisons and thematic reference to the international context
Integrated internships

Between the first and second years of the degree, students complete an internship (sometimes called "practicum" or placement), typically from late July to the beginning of October. The clinical internship provides intense practical experience outside the classroom, supervised closely by external mentors (or supervisors). These mentors are academically educated dance movement therapists. The organisation is handled by the students in consultation with the faculty internship office. Every placement requires prior approval of the internship office. Students are strongly recommended to complete their internships in a country where they speak the language.

Course-specific, integrated German language courses
No
Course-specific, integrated English language courses
No
Tuition fees per semester in EUR
5,100 EUR
Additional information on tuition fees

Applicants from EEA countries: 690 EUR per month + one-time registration fee of 750 EUR

Applicants from non-EEA countries without a permanent residence permit: 5,100 EUR per semester + one-time registration fee of 1,000 EUR

Semester contribution

None

Costs of living

Approx. 950–1,000 EUR per month for personal expenses

Funding opportunities within the university
Yes
Description of the above-mentioned funding opportunities within the university

There is a special scholarship available. The "Deutschlandstipendium" is a special scholarship programme supported by the German government and private companies. You can find other scholarships that are relevant to your application here.

Academic admission requirements
  • University degree from an accredited institution of higher learning with a duration of at least six semesters in one of the following disciplines: dance/artistic studies, psychology, medicine, social work, or similar degrees. Individual exceptions are possible, but these require special approval.
  • personal and artistic eligibility
  • good English skills
Language requirements

English language proficiency IELTS 6.5 / TOEFL 80 / Duolingo Certificate 120 / PTE Academics 58 or a comparable test

We may also personally interview applicants in order to test their English skills. If applicants have studied completely in English in their previous studies, we may waive the required test.

Application deadline

There are no application deadlines, so you can apply at any time until all of the places in the programme have been filled.

Submit application to

Online application only

Possibility of finding part-time employment

Working as a non-EU citizen: In possession of a valid German residence permit for study purposes, you are allowed to work for up to 120 full days (full day = eight hours per day) or 240 half days (half day = four hours) during the calendar year. However, freelance work is not permitted. Internships that are mandatory for the successful completion of your studies at SRH do not count towards the above-named 120 full days.

Employment that is considered “student part-time work” ("studentische Nebentätigkeit", e.g. employment as a student worker at a university or in a university-related organisation or "Werkstudent" activities at companies that are related to your studies) can be done without any time restrictions.

Accommodation

On-campus housing is available. Please contact SRH Campus Apartments for information.

Career advisory service

We offer individual career counselling services in our Career Development Centre. Here you will find courses on how to prepare for job applications and interviews, covering techniques such as body language and voice training, as well as continued education offerings such as our business skills certificate. In addition, you can access job listings on the university website.

Support for international students and doctoral candidates
  • Welcome event
  • Specialist counselling
  • Visa matters
  • Buddy programme
  • Tutors
  • Accompanying programme
General services and support for international students and doctoral candidates

International Cultural Club, workshops, free language courses, social and networking events

SRH Universities

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The SRH Universities © SRH Universities

We are the SRH Universities, part of the non-profit SRH Holding based in Heidelberg.

We offer state-accredited Bachelor's, Master's, and MBA programmes in English and German. Our curricula are built around the CORE Principle, emphasising hands-on, project-based learning in five-week blocks. Our programmes focus on management and logistics, engineering and architecture, computer and data science, hospitality and therapy, design and creative industries, and music and film.

With nine campuses across Germany, we host a diverse student body from over 100 countries, contributing to our vibrant international atmosphere.

Our approach includes practical work experiences and professional networking opportunities, preparing students for successful global careers.

100+ Number of countries represented at our university
9 Number of campuses in Germany

University location

Berlin, Germany's capital, is a hub for politics, media, science, and education. It's the country’s largest city and offers a vibrant cultural scene with rich nightlife and historical sites. Berlin's dynamic start-up scene is attractive to tech and creative industries. Despite rising costs, it remains affordable compared to other Western European capitals.

Cologne is known for its relaxed culture, famous cathedral, and rich Roman history. It offers a vibrant academic and cultural scene with excellent job opportunities in media and other industries. Cologne is well-connected, making it easy to explore nearby cities.

Dresden combines a vibrant cultural scene with affordable living costs. Known for historical sights like the Zwinger and Semperoper, it offers good job prospects in microelectronics and IT. Its scenic location and rich cultural events make it an attractive city for students and young professionals.

Hamburg, Germany's second-largest city, is a major trade and logistics hub in north-western Europe. With a high standard of living and moderate costs, it offers career opportunities in IT, media, logistics, and renewable energy sectors. Famous for its harbour and nightlife, Hamburg is a city rich in water-related and cultural activities.

Hamm combines historical charm with modern innovation. It offers low living costs and affordable housing suitable for students. Home to Germany's first Bachelor's degree programme in logistics at the SRH Hamm campus, the city provides a close-knit community feel and is growing in industries like energy and logistics.

Heidelberg is known for its romantic ambiance and vibrant cultural and academic atmosphere. The city offers a picturesque landscape ideal for outdoor activities, with strong sectors in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and academia.

Leipzig is an economic hub with a growing population, offering career opportunities in technology, digitalisation, and life sciences. It has a vibrant music and cultural scene and remains one of Germany's more affordable major cities.

Münster is a bike-friendly university town known for its museums, theatres, and lively student community. It offers reasonable living costs and robust job opportunities in education, healthcare, and administration.

Stuttgart is a centre for technology and innovation, home to companies like Mercedes Benz and Porsche. It offers excellent educational and career prospects in engineering and sustainable technologies, supported by a vibrant cultural scene.

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