University of Adelaide

What you'll study

This programme blends core musicianship with applied pedagogy. You will study a mix of theory and practice modules such as aural skills and harmony, music history and analysis, composition and arranging, and applied performance (instrumental or voice). Education-focused subjects cover music curriculum and assessment, classroom management for music, inclusive and differentiated approaches to teaching, and instrumental and vocal pedagogies for different age groups.

• Core musicianship: aural training, harmony, analysis
• Applied performance: one-to-one tuition and ensemble participation
• Music technology and classroom resources: notation software, recording and basic production
• Pedagogy: curriculum design, assessment, and behaviour management in music contexts
• Specialist pedagogy: instrumental methods, classroom keyboard, choral conducting
• Professional experience: supervised school placements and community-based teaching practicums
• Capstone or research project: demonstrable teaching portfolio or practice-led project

Entry requirements

Admission typically requires successful completion of a recognised secondary qualification or equivalent tertiary study, along with demonstrated musical proficiency. Applicants are normally required to submit an audition or performance folio and may be asked to provide a statement of intent outlining their teaching aspirations.

• Academic: senior secondary certificate (or equivalent) or recognised prior learning
• Musical proficiency: audition or recorded performance folio showcasing technical and expressive ability on principal instrument or voice
• Prerequisites: prior study in music at senior secondary level is advantageous for music theory and aural components
• English language: applicants whose prior study was not in English will need to meet the University's English language requirements
• Additional checks: because the programme includes school placements, students must meet any required background checks or clearances as determined by placement providers

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of careers in education and the broader music sector. Typical roles include classroom music teacher in primary and secondary schools, private instrumental or voice teacher, choir or ensemble director, and community music educator. Other pathways include curriculum developer, arts education coordinator, music programmer for community organisations, or further study in specialist music or education postgraduate degrees.

Many graduates combine school-based work with private tuition or freelance performance. Those seeking formal teacher registration should check the requirements of the relevant state or national teacher regulatory authority and, where necessary, undertake any additional accredited education qualifications or professional requirements.

Why study at University of Adelaide

The programme is delivered through the Elder Conservatorium of Music, one of Australia’s oldest music schools, offering a strong tradition of performance and academic study. Students benefit from experienced teaching staff, high-quality rehearsal and recording facilities, and a busy calendar of ensembles, concerts and masterclasses that provide real-world performance experience.

• Conservatorium environment combining practical performance with scholarly study
• Access to ensembles, chamber groups and collaborative projects across campus
• Opportunities for supervised school and community placements that develop classroom confidence and professional networks
• Support services for academic development, career planning and audition preparation