Victoria University of Wellington

Overview

The Bachelor of Music with Honours in Composition–Sonic Arts at Victoria University of Wellington offers an enriching experience that allows students to develop advanced skills in music composition and sonic arts. Through a combination of research-led study, creative projects, and critical analysis, this program prepares graduates for both postgraduate study and various professional pathways in music and audio creation.

• Qualification: Bachelor of Music with Honours (BMus(Hons))
• Field: Composition–Sonic Arts
• Institution: Victoria University of Wellington
• Level: Honours (advanced undergraduate)
• Delivery: On-campus
• Credits/Duration: Typically completed as an honours year following the Bachelor of Music major requirements
• Language of instruction: English
• Application: Submit through the university’s application process
• Start dates: Usually aligned with the academic year intake

What you'll study

The honours program centers on a creative research pathway, culminating in a significant composition or sound project, backed by advanced studies in composition and media sound.

• Creative Research in Composition / Sonic Arts: Focus on research methods, documentation, and critical reflection.
• Project in Composition / Sonic Arts: A major honours project producing original compositions or sound-based works.
• Advanced Music / Sound for Film: Exploration of advanced techniques for audio in screen and narrative contexts.
• Topic in Composition: Sonic Microverses: In-depth study of small-scale sonic environments and detailed listening and compositional strategies.
• Topic in Composition: The Total Audio Landscape in Film: Examination of how music, sound effects, ambience, and dialogue combine to create a cinematic experience.

Assessment and outcomes:

• Continuous creative development and research documentation.
• Submission of a portfolio showcasing composition and sound-based works.
• Honours project output reflecting originality and advanced compositional practices.

For the latest curriculum details, including elective options and scheduling, please refer to the official Victoria University of Wellington programme page.

Entry requirements

To gain entry into the honours program, students must have completed the Bachelor of Music major requirements in Composition / Sonic Arts. A strong academic record is typically expected, along with a portfolio of compositions and sound-based works for review. Final selection is contingent upon the program's assessment of suitability.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Bachelor of Music with Honours in Composition–Sonic Arts will be well-equipped to pursue various opportunities in the music and audio industry, including roles in sound design, composition for film and media, and advanced studies in music. The program's emphasis on creative and analytical skills provides a strong foundation for a successful career in an ever-evolving field.