. „ J • 11990

Open College • Open University
Knou'ledge Uetivork

FOR I M M E D I A T E RELEASE

DATE: FEBRUARY 1, 1990

FIRST BACHELOR OF MUSIC THERAPY DEGREE I N WESTERN CANADA
VANCOUVER - Starting in September 1990, the B.C. Open University and Capilano
College in North Vancouver will jointly offer the first Bachelor of Music Therapy
degree in Western Canada.
The Canadian Association of Music Therapy has set a bachelor's degree as the
minimum standard for accreditation within two years. The new four year program
will enable students and practicing music therapists to meet this standard.
Students may take the entire program at Capilano College and receive a degree from
the Open University. The first two years of the program consists of background
courses in areas such as music, general arts, education or health. These may be taken
at Capilano College or other post-secondary institutions. The final two years are
devoted specifically to music therapy.
Capilano College pioneered music therapy education in Canada with the introduction
of a diploma program in 1976. Music therapy uses music as a therapeutic tool to
restore, maintain and improve the clients' mental, physical and emotional health.
'This initiative is an example of the mutual support which B.C.'s post-secondary
institutions can provide for one another," says Dr. Glen Farrell, president of the Open
Learning Agency.
-30For further information contact:
Arien Heath
Open Learning Agency
Phone: 660-5074

Bev Greene
Capilano College
Phone: 984-4903

300---475 West Georgia Street, Wncoiivcr, B . C . , Canada V 6 B 4 M 9 Tdiephone: {60^)6600000

dolBfree: 1000-6601618

Fax: 660C048