Victoria University of Wellington

Overview

The Bachelor of Music with Honours in Music Studies at Victoria University of Wellington is designed for students aiming to enhance their research, writing, and analytical skills in the field of music. This one-year programme is ideal for those who wish to pursue postgraduate studies or embark on research-informed careers within the arts and culture sector.

What you'll study

This Honours year emphasizes advanced music research methods, scholarly writing, and specialized topics in musicology. Core components of the curriculum may include:

• Approaches to Music Ethnography Research
• Approaches to Music Research (research design and scholarly methods)
• Editing as Interpretation (how editorial choices shape meaning)
• Specialized Topic in New Musical Concepts (e.g., Green Sound: Music, Creativity and the Ecological Future)
• Specialized Topic in Musicology (e.g., Historical Performance Practice)

Students will fulfill the Honours requirements established by the department, which may involve a research-focused assessment or an Honours project component. It's essential to consult the current Honours handbook for detailed assessment formats and credit distribution.

Entry requirements

To be eligible for the Honours programme, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Completion of the Bachelor of Music major requirements relevant to the subject area.
• Adherence to the university's academic standing requirements for progression into Honours, including specific grade thresholds.

Additionally, proficiency in English is required, and common accepted measures may include:

• TOEFL iBT: 90 (minimum total score)
• PTE Academic: 58 (minimum total score)

Applicants must submit their applications through Victoria University of Wellington’s Honours admissions process, including academic transcripts and any specified supporting documentation.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Bachelor of Music with Honours in Music Studies are well-equipped for various career paths in the arts and culture sector. The advanced skills developed during the programme prepare students for roles in research, education, cultural institutions, and other fields that require expertise in music and its scholarly study.