Master of Music (Composition) (CRICOS course code 019178G) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by The University of Sydney over 2 years. This CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00026A) is offered at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, one of Australia's most prestigious music institutions. As a research degree, you will undertake a substantial creative project—composing a portfolio of original works—supported by expert supervision. The University of Sydney is a Group of Eight university, consistently ranked among the world's top 50, and its Conservatorium has produced renowned composers and musicians. International students benefit from Sydney's vibrant cultural scene, with access to concert halls, studios, and a diverse music community. Tuition fees are indicative at A$95,200, plus non-tuition fees of A$752, totalling an estimated A$95,952. All CRICOS-registered providers ensure ESOS Act protections, meaning your rights as an international student are safeguarded. HeadStart Academy draws data directly from the CRICOS register (April 2026) to ensure accuracy. This course is ideal for graduates seeking advanced research training in composition, leading to careers in academia, professional composition, or arts leadership.
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Master of Music (Composition) (CRICOS course code 019178G) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by The University of Sydney over 2 years. This CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00026A) is offered at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, one of Australia's most prestigious music institutions. As a research degree, you will undertake a substantial creative project—composing a portfolio of original works—supported by expert supervision. The University of Sydney is a Group of Eight university, consistently ranked among the world's top 50, and its Conservatorium has produced renowned composers and musicians. International students benefit from Sydney's vibrant cultural scene, with access to concert halls, studios, and a diverse music community. Tuition fees are indicative at A$95,200, plus non-tuition fees of A$752, totalling an estimated A$95,952. All CRICOS-registered providers ensure ESOS Act protections, meaning your rights as an international student are safeguarded. HeadStart Academy draws data directly from the CRICOS register (April 2026) to ensure accuracy.
This Masters Degree (Research) in Music focuses on advanced composition techniques, music theory, and creative research. You will develop a portfolio of original compositions, often accompanied by a written exegesis that contextualises your creative work. The field of education is 10 - Creative Arts (100101 Music), so you will engage with contemporary practices in Western art music, electronic music, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Graduates typically gain skills in project management, critical analysis, and artistic communication. While specific syllabi are set by the university, research degrees emphasise independent inquiry under expert supervision. You will have access to state-of-the-art studios, rehearsal spaces, and performance venues at the Sydney Conservatorium. This course is suited for those with a strong background in music theory and composition, aiming to contribute new knowledge or creative works to the field.
The CRICOS register lists the duration as 2 years (104 weeks) full-time. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual award) and does not include foundation studies. As a research degree, it may be possible to study part-time with approval, but international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) must maintain a full-time enrolment. The course does not have a mandatory work component, but students are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions.
Indicative tuition fee for the entire course: A$95,200. Non-tuition fees (such as student services and amenities): A$752. Combined estimated total: A$95,952. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. They do NOT include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. For current fees, always confirm directly with The University of Sydney at sydney.edu.au. International students should budget for additional costs: OSHC (approximately A$500–A$700 per year for single cover), living expenses in Sydney (around A$2,000–A$2,500 per month for rent, food, and transport), and the visa application fee (currently A$1,600). The Australian Government recommends students show financial capacity of at least A$29,710 per year for living costs plus tuition and travel.
English language requirements vary by provider. For research degrees, The University of Sydney typically requires IELTS 7.0 overall (with no band below 6.0) or equivalent. For this Masters Degree (Research), you are expected to hold a Bachelor's degree in Music or a related field with a strong academic record, and usually a portfolio of compositions. Some applicants may need to complete a preliminary Honours year or a Graduate Diploma. Foundation studies are not part of this course. Always check the provider's website for precise requirements, as they may differ by department or year. Meeting the minimum criteria does not guarantee admission—supervisor availability and competitive selection also apply.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. Students may undertake voluntary work or internships outside of the curriculum, and are advised to check visa conditions regarding work hours.
This course is delivered at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, located in the Sydney central business district, New South Wales. The campus is part of The University of Sydney's conservatorium, situated near the Royal Botanic Garden and the Sydney Opera House. Sydney is Australia's largest city with a population of over 5 million, and home to more than 200 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. Living costs are higher than the national average, with weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment ranging from A$500 to A$700. Public transport is extensive, with trains, buses, and ferries connecting the Conservatorium to most suburbs. The city's multicultural environment offers a rich cultural life, including concerts, festivals, and dining.
International students enrolling in this CRICOS-registered course are eligible to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from The University of Sydney, evidence of genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status, sufficient financial capacity (tuition + living costs + travel), and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Students with a Student visa can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Dependants may accompany you, subject to conditions. For detailed advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Follow these 3 steps to apply for Master of Music (Composition) at The University of Sydney: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Masters Degree Research), field (Creative Arts – Music), and location (New South Wales). Confirm the provider is CRICOS-registered (The University of Sydney code 00026A). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements (English language test, transcript, portfolio), prepare your application, and submit by the deadline. The University of Sydney has multiple intake periods—check their website for exact dates. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you'll receive a CoE. Then lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, including OSHC, GTE statement, and evidence of funds.
Sydney is a global city with a thriving arts scene, making it ideal for music students. The Sydney Conservatorium of Music is located in the city's cultural heart, near major venues. However, the cost of living is high—budget at least A$2,000 per month for basic expenses. The city offers diverse job opportunities in hospitality and retail for students. Public transport is efficient but costly; consider living near a train line. Sydney's climate is temperate, with mild winters and warm summers. If you prefer a quieter, lower-cost environment, other states like Queensland or Victoria may suit you. This degree is research-intensive, so ensure you have a clear project idea and potential supervisor before applying.
Start your application today: research CRICOS-registered providers, check entry requirements, and apply directly to The University of Sydney. Use HeadStart Academy as your free planning tool.
Master of Music (Composition) is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of Sydney. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.