Master of Philosophy (Music) (CRICOS course code 027418G) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by The University of Newcastle (UoN) over 2 years. This research-intensive program allows you to explore advanced topics in music, including performance, composition, musicology, and ethnomusicology. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international students, ensuring quality education and legal protections under the ESOS Act. Newcastle, a vibrant coastal city in NSW, offers a dynamic cultural scene and a supportive research environment with access to state-of-the-art music facilities. Whether you aim to pursue a PhD or a career in academia, performance, or arts management, this degree provides a strong foundation. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource to help you navigate your study options in Australia.
Master of Philosophy (Music) (CRICOS code 027418G) is a Masters Degree (Research) at AQF Level 9, delivered by The University of Newcastle (UoN) (CRICOS 00109J). This course is designed for students who wish to undertake substantial research in the field of music. The program typically involves a thesis or equivalent research project, supervised by academic experts. Graduates develop advanced skills in critical analysis, research methodology, and scholarly communication. The University of Newcastle is a public research university with a strong reputation in the creative arts, offering dedicated facilities such as music studios, practice rooms, and performance spaces.
The Master of Philosophy (Music) falls under the field of education '10 - Creative Arts', specifically '100101 - Music'. At this research level, you will engage in independent research that contributes new knowledge or creative practice to the field of music. Typical areas of study include music performance, composition, music history and criticism, ethnomusicology, music technology, and music pedagogy. You will work closely with a supervisor to design and execute a research project, culminating in a thesis, recital, or portfolio of works. This program enhances your ability to think critically, solve complex problems, and communicate effectively—skills highly valued in academic, artistic, and cultural industries.
The Master of Philosophy (Music) is a 2-year program (104 weeks on the CRICOS register). It is offered on a full-time basis, with language of instruction in English. This is a single qualification (not a dual or packaged program). The course does not include a foundation studies component. Study mode is generally on-campus, requiring attendance at the University of Newcastle campuses. Part-time options may be available for domestic students, but international students must maintain full-time enrolment as per visa conditions.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$79,055, with non-tuition fees of A$765, totalling an estimated A$79,820. Please note that this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students and costs approximately A$600–A$1,500 per year depending on coverage. Living costs in Newcastle are moderate: weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment averages A$400–A$550, groceries around A$100–A$150, and public transport about A$40–A$60. Always confirm current fees with the provider, as they are subject to change. Visit The University of Newcastle (UoN) website for the most up-to-date information.
Entry to the Master of Philosophy (Music) typically requires an Australian Honours degree (or equivalent) with at least second-class honours in a relevant discipline, or a Masters degree with a substantial research component. Applicants must also demonstrate English language proficiency, with accepted tests including IELTS (Academic) with an overall score of 6.5–7.0 (no band less than 6.0–6.5), TOEFL iBT, or PTE Academic. Some providers may require a research proposal or portfolio. Foundation or pathway options are not available for this level; however, if you do not meet the requirements, consider a Graduate Certificate or Graduate Diploma as a pathway. Always refer to The University of Newcastle (UoN) for specific entry criteria.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. As a research degree, your primary commitment is to your research project and thesis. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Work opportunities may include teaching assistant roles, research assistant positions, or casual employment in the local area. The University of Newcastle’s Career Service can help you find suitable employment.
The Master of Philosophy (Music) is delivered at two campuses: The University of Newcastle (Callaghan) in CALLAGHAN, NSW, and The University of Newcastle (Newcastle City) in Newcastle, NSW. Callaghan is the main campus, surrounded by natural bushland, approx. 12 km from the city centre. Newcastle City campus is located in the heart of the CBD, close to cultural venues and public transport. Newcastle is a regional city with a population of over 320,000, home to several CRICOS-registered providers including The University of Newcastle, TAFE NSW, and private colleges. The city offers a vibrant arts scene, affordable living, and excellent transport links to Sydney (~2.5 hours by train).
International students require a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time in Australia. Visa conditions include: maintaining enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, meeting attendance and academic progress requirements, holding valid OSHC, and not engaging in work beyond 48 hours per fortnight during term (unlimited during breaks). You must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, demonstrating your intention to stay temporarily for study. Financial capacity evidence (tuition, living costs, OSHC) is required. The ESOS Act protects your rights, including tuition fee protection. For visa assistance, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agency.
Applying for this Master of Philosophy (Music) at The University of Newcastle (UoN) involves three steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Masters Degree (Research)), field (Creative Arts), and location (NSW, Newcastle). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Visit The University of Newcastle (UoN) website to review entry requirements, prepare documents (transcripts, research proposal, English test results), and submit an online application. Note application deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once accepted, you'll receive a CoE. Then lodge a visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, providing evidence of finances, OSHC, and GTE. After approval, you can travel to Australia.
Newcastle is a fantastic destination for research in music, offering a supportive academic community and a thriving cultural environment. The University of Newcastle has a strong reputation in creative arts research, with dedicated facilities and experienced supervisors. Living costs are lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, with average rent around A$450 per week for a studio. Public transport is efficient, with buses and a train line connecting campuses. The city hosts numerous music festivals, concerts, and performance venues. There are 5 CRICOS-registered providers in Newcastle offering courses in creative arts. With a student population of over 40,000 at UoN, you'll join a diverse and vibrant community.
Start your journey towards a Master of Philosophy (Music) at The University of Newcastle (UoN). Use HeadStart Academy to explore CRICOS-registered courses and take the first step today.
Master of Philosophy (Music) is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of Newcastle (UoN). 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.