University of Auckland

What you'll study

The Bachelor of Music (Honours) builds on undergraduate study with a mix of advanced taught papers and a substantial research component. Students normally take advanced options in areas such as performance (solo and ensemble), composition, musicology, ethnomusicology, music technology and pedagogy, while completing an honours dissertation or equivalent project.

• Independent research project or thesis: An extended piece of supervised research or creative work that demonstrates specialist knowledge and research skills in the student’s chosen field.
• Recital or portfolio: For performance and composition students, a public recital or a composition portfolio is typically required as a capstone creative component.
• Advanced coursework: Seminar-style papers in research methods, analysis, contemporary practice, historical studies, and area-specific topics (for example, advanced performance practice, composition techniques, sound recording and production, or ethnographic approaches).
• Electives and seminars: Opportunities to engage with interdisciplinary topics, collaborative projects, and specialised workshops with visiting artists and researchers.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a relevant undergraduate degree in music (for example a Bachelor of Music) or demonstrate equivalent academic and practical achievement. Admission normally requires evidence of strong academic performance in music subjects and a demonstrated level of practical or creative ability appropriate to honours-level work.

• Academic transcript from a recognised degree in music or a closely related discipline.
• Evidence of practical ability: this may include an audition recording, recital programme, composition portfolio, or examples of music-technology work, depending on the specialism.
• Research proposal or statement of intent outlining the intended honours project and supervision needs.
• Referee reports and, where appropriate, an interview with School of Music staff.

Career prospects

A Bachelor of Music (Honours) prepares graduates for a range of professional and academic pathways. Many go on to postgraduate study (Master's and doctoral research) while others pursue careers that draw on advanced musical skills and research training.

• Performer (soloist, ensemble musician, orchestral or chamber work)
• Composer and arranger for concert, media and interactive contexts
• Music educator and higher-education tutor
• Musicologist, researcher or cultural heritage specialist
• Music technologist, audio producer or sound designer
• Arts administrator, programmer and cultural policy roles

Why study at University of Auckland

The University of Auckland’s School of Music is a major centre for music education and research in New Zealand within the Faculty of Creative Arts and Industries. Students benefit from access to experienced academic staff and practising musicians, a wide range of ensembles and performance opportunities, specialist facilities for practice and recording, and connections with the city’s professional music and arts organisations. The honours year offers close supervision and the chance to develop a distinctive portfolio of research and creative work that supports further study or entry into professional practice.