University of Adelaide

What you'll study

The honours year in Creative Practice combines advanced studio-based work, an extended creative project and research-led study. You will refine your personal artistic voice through a supervised major project (such as a portfolio of compositions, a recorded EP/album, a staged work or an interdisciplinary performance) supported by coursework in professional practice and research methods.

• Major creative project: a substantial, supervised practical project presented as a public outcome and accompanied by critical commentary.
• Advanced composition and arrangement: techniques for contemporary composition, experimental approaches, electroacoustic and mixed-media composition.
• Music technology and production: advanced studio practice, multitrack production, sound design and live electronics.
• Performance and ensemble: high-level individual tuition and participation in specialised ensembles or collaborative projects.
• Music research methods: research design, literature review, contextualisation of creative work and ethical practice.
• Professional practice: career development, arts entrepreneurship, portfolio presentation, copyright and industry networks.

The programme is typically delivered through one-on-one supervision, seminars, workshops and public presentations. Assessment emphasises creative output, a written exegesis or critical commentary, and practical demonstrations of professional skills.

Entry requirements

Admission is normally open to candidates who have completed an accredited undergraduate music degree or equivalent with a good academic record. Selection also considers the strength of the applicant's creative portfolio or recordings and, where required, an audition or interview.

• Completed bachelor degree in music or closely related discipline (or equivalent experience) with a competitive academic standing.
• Submission of a creative portfolio, recordings or examples of recent work demonstrating capability in composition, performance or production.
• Possible audition or interview with academic staff to assess suitability for the Creative Practice pathway.
• International applicants must meet the University's English language requirements.
• Applicants with significant professional experience but without a formal music degree may be considered on a case-by-case basis and should provide evidence of prior creative work.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Creative Practice honours year leave with a focussed professional portfolio and enhanced research skills suited to a range of creative careers and further study. Typical career paths include:

• Composer for concert, media, theatre and screen
• Recording and live sound producer or engineer
• Performing artist or ensemble director
• Music programmer, curator or presenter
• Music educator and workshop leader (often combined with further teacher training where required)
• Arts manager, producer or creative entrepreneur within the cultural industries
• Continued academic study at master’s and doctoral levels, including practice-led research

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide’s music teaching is delivered through the Elder Conservatorium, one of Australia’s longstanding centres for music education and research. Students on the Creative Practice pathway benefit from personalised supervision by active practitioners, access to professional recording studios and performance spaces, and opportunities to present work in public concerts and cross-disciplinary collaborations.

The Conservatorium maintains links with local and national music organisations, festivals and industry professionals, supporting internship and networking opportunities. Facilities include specialised practice rooms, electronic music and sound studios, and ensemble infrastructure that support contemporary and experimental practice. An honours year here provides both a creative launchpad and a clear pathway into postgraduate research or professional life in the arts.