Doctor of Philosophy (Music) (CRICOS course code 039863J) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by The University of Sydney over 4 years. This research-intensive program allows you to pursue original research in music, contributing to knowledge in areas such as performance, composition, musicology, or music education. The University of Sydney, a leading Australian university (CRICOS 00026A), is located in Sydney, NSW, and is known for its vibrant international student community. The course is delivered at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, a world-class institution. With indicative tuition of A$217,300 and total fees around A$218,826, this program is designed for those seeking academic or professional careers in music research. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). As a CRICOS-registered provider, The University of Sydney meets Australian Government standards for international education, ensuring you are protected under the ESOS Act.
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Doctor of Philosophy (Music) (CRICOS course code 039863J) is a Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10) in the field of Creative Arts, specifically Music (100101). It is delivered by The University of Sydney (CRICOS 00026A) over 4 years (208 weeks). The language of instruction is English, and it is a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies component. There is no mandatory work component. This is a VET N/A course, meaning it is a higher education research degree. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets the Australian Government's quality standards for international students. The University of Sydney is one of over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, offering a wide range of courses to international students.
This doctoral program focuses on Music (100101) within the Performing Arts field. At AQF Level 10, you will undertake independent, original research that makes a significant contribution to knowledge in your chosen area of music. Typical learning outcomes include advanced research skills, critical analysis, and the ability to communicate complex ideas. You will produce a thesis or equivalent scholarly work. The exact research topic is determined through consultation with your supervisor and must align with the expertise available at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music. As with all doctoral degrees, the emphasis is on developing new knowledge rather than taught coursework, though some coursework may be required to support your research.
The course is 4 years full-time, equating to 208 weeks on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification, not a dual degree. There is no foundation studies component. You will be expected to attend the Sydney Conservatorium of Music campus for supervision and resources, but some off-campus research may be possible. The duration is based on full-time enrolment; part-time options may be available but will affect visa conditions for international students. Always confirm mode and duration with The University of Sydney before applying.
Indicative tuition fees for the Doctor of Philosophy (Music) are A$217,300, with non-tuition fees of A$1,526, totalling an estimated A$218,826. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Please note: this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the student visa application charge. For current fee information, always check The University of Sydney's website. Sydney's cost of living is relatively high; indicative weekly expenses for a single student are approximately $600-$800 for rent, groceries, and transport.
For this Doctoral Degree, you typically need a Master's degree (AQF Level 9) or equivalent in a relevant field, with evidence of research capability. English language proficiency is required: typically IELTS 6.5-7.0 overall (with minimum band scores as required by the university). Other English tests like TOEFL or PTE may be accepted. Some applicants may need to complete a research proposal or attend an interview. As this is a higher degree by research, you must confirm supervision availability. For exact entry requirements, refer to The University of Sydney's website. Foundation or pathway options are not applicable for this level.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, you may be able to undertake casual tutoring or research assistant roles in the university, subject to visa conditions. The student visa (Subclass 500) allows work of up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks.
This course is delivered at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, Sydney, NSW. Sydney is Australia's largest city with a diverse international student population of over 200,000. It is home to more than 200 CRICOS-registered providers. The city offers excellent public transport, including trains, buses, and light rail, making the Conservatorium accessible from most suburbs. Living costs in Sydney are among the highest in Australia; indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment near the city is around $600-$800. The Conservatorium is located in the Royal Botanic Garden, close to the Sydney CBD, providing a vibrant study environment.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time. Your visa will be issued based on the CRICOS-registered course, and you will need to provide a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) when applying. Work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement applies, meaning you must demonstrate a genuine intention to stay temporarily for study. Financial capacity requirements include tuition fees, living costs, and travel. Always check the Department of Home Affairs for current visa conditions. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; consult a MARA agent for personalised advice.
Follow these steps to apply for this course: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy to search for doctoral-level courses in Music. Compare providers like The University of Sydney by course focus, location, and fees. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Visit The University of Sydney's website to check entry requirements (including English test scores) and deadlines. Prepare your research proposal, transcripts, and references. Submit your application online. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – If accepted, you'll get a CoE. Use it to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Provide evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and meet GTE requirements.
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Doctor of Philosophy (Music) 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.