University of Adelaide

What you'll study

This honours-level music programme combines core musical subjects with specialised units in music education and professional practice. Typical study areas include advanced aural skills and musicianship, harmony and analysis, performance or composition at an honours standard, musicology and research methods. Education-focused subjects cover pedagogy for classroom and studio contexts, curriculum design for school music, assessment and inclusive practice, classroom management, and the use of technology in music teaching.

• Performance and repertoire — one-to-one tuition, ensemble participation and preparation of a major recital or capstone performance.
• Academic studies — music history, ethnomusicology, analysis, and an honours research project or thesis.
• Education and pedagogy — foundations of music teaching, learning theories, lesson planning, assessment, and strategies for diverse learners.
• Professional experience — supervised school or community placements, workshops on classroom practice and industry-focused professional development.
• Creative practice — composition, arranging and music technology units that support contemporary teaching approaches.

The honours component typically involves a combination of advanced coursework and a substantial research project or major performance/creative work, enabling students to develop specialised expertise and a portfolio of professional-level work.

Entry requirements

Admission ordinarily requires satisfactory completion of secondary-school qualifications or an equivalent qualification assessed by the University, together with demonstrated musical achievement. Applicants are normally required to pass a practical audition and/or submit a portfolio of work; some theoretical or aural assessments may also be required. English language proficiency must meet the University’s standard requirements for undergraduate study. For entry to the honours pathway, students usually need to meet the University’s progression requirements from the preceding undergraduate music sequence or demonstrate equivalent achievement, as honours is awarded for higher-level study and research.

Career prospects

Graduates with a strong grounding in music and pedagogy have a wide range of career options. Typical paths include:

• Primary or secondary music teacher (many graduates complete additional teacher education certification where required by jurisdictions)
• Private instrumental, vocal or ensemble teacher
• Choir, ensemble or community music leader and conductor
• Curriculum developer, educational resource writer or music education consultant
• Arts administration, outreach and program coordination in schools, community centres and cultural organisations
• Further study and research at postgraduate level in music education, performance, composition or musicology

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide’s music provision is delivered through the Elder Conservatorium of Music, a long-established centre for performance, teaching and research. Students benefit from experienced academic staff and practising musicians, a broad program of ensembles and public performances, and access to specialised facilities and practice spaces. The Conservatorium maintains links with local schools and cultural organisations, offering practical placement opportunities that integrate classroom experience with advanced musical training. An honours pathway at Adelaide provides focused supervision and a clear route into professional music-making or further academic study.