Doctor of Musical Arts (CRICOS course code 062440G) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Griffith University over 4 years. This advanced program is designed for musicians seeking to achieve the highest level of professional practice and academic scholarship in music. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 00233E), it meets Australian Government standards for international students. Griffith University, a government-funded institution based in Brisbane, offers this course through its Queensland Conservatorium, one of Australia's leading music schools. The degree focuses on developing artistic excellence, research skills, and critical thinking, preparing graduates for careers as performers, composers, educators, and researchers. With a duration of 208 weeks, students engage in intensive studio practice, academic research, and creative projects. This page provides indicative fee information, entry requirements, and visa guidance to help you plan your study journey in Australia.
Doctor of Musical Arts (CRICOS course code 062440G) is a Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10) offered by Griffith University, a CRICOS-registered provider (00233E). This course is classified under Field of Education 100101 - Music, within Creative Arts (10) and Performing Arts (1001). As a doctoral-level program, it emphasises original artistic research and advanced performance or composition. Students typically produce a portfolio of creative works and a written dissertation. The course is delivered entirely in English at Griffith University's South Bank campus in Brisbane City, Queensland. Griffith University is a public university established by the Queensland Government, and its courses are subject to the ESOS Act protections, ensuring quality standards for international students. According to the official CRICOS register (April 2026), this course has no dual qualification or foundation studies component, and no mandatory work component. The indicative total fees are A$127,017, covering tuition and non-tuition expenses, though living costs, OSHC, and visa application fees are additional.
The Doctor of Musical Arts is a research-oriented degree that combines high-level practical musicianship with academic inquiry. Under the broad field of Creative Arts, specifically Performing Arts and Music, students engage in advanced study that may include performance practice, music theory, composition, musicology, and pedagogy. Typical learning outcomes include the ability to conceive, design, and execute a substantial artistic project; contribute original knowledge to the field; and communicate complex ideas effectively. While specific syllabi are determined by Griffith University, doctoral candidates generally work closely with a supervisory panel to develop a research proposal that culminates in a public performance or exhibition alongside a written thesis. The program fosters critical analysis of music practices and contexts, preparing graduates for leadership roles in the arts industry and academia.
According to the CRICOS register, the Doctor of Musical Arts has a duration of 4 years, equivalent to 208 weeks. The language of instruction is English, and the course is offered as a single qualification with no dual award. It is NOT a VET course, so no VET national code applies. The course is delivered full-time on campus at Griffith University's South Bank location. Students should expect a combination of individual supervision, workshops, and independent research. There is no mandatory work component, though students may seek part-time work subject to visa conditions. International students must maintain satisfactory course progress and attendance to comply with their student visa requirements.
Course fees shown are indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Fees are set by Griffith University and subject to change. For the Doctor of Musical Arts, the indicative tuition fee is A$123,000 for the full program (4 years). Additional non-tuition fees amount to A$4,017. The estimated total cost is A$127,017. IMPORTANT: This total does NOT include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the student visa application charge. International students are required to maintain OSHC for the duration of their visa. Indicative living costs in Brisbane are approximately A$21,000–A$27,000 per year (including rent at around A$300–A$450 per week, groceries, and transport). For current fee information, always check the provider's website: www.griffith.edu.au.
Entry into the Doctor of Musical Arts typically requires a relevant master's degree or extensive professional experience in music. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency, with Griffith University's standard 6.5-7.0 overall IELTS band score (or equivalent). Specific prerequisites may include a portfolio of creative work, audition, or interview. Some candidates may be offered a pathway via a Graduate Certificate or Diploma if they do not meet direct entry requirements. HeadStart Academy advises always confirming entry requirements with Griffith University's admissions team, as they can change. Foundation studies are not part of this course. For visa purposes, you must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement and provide evidence of financial capacity.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work or internship component. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks, subject to visa conditions. Paid work related to the course may be permitted with approval under specific visa arrangements. Always refer to the Department of Home Affairs for current work rights.
The Doctor of Musical Arts is delivered at Griffith University's South Bank campus in Brisbane City, Queensland (postcode 4101). Brisbane is a vibrant capital city with a large student population (over 150,000 international students). The city has 55+ CRICOS-registered providers offering over 1,000 courses. South Bank is a cultural precinct with easy access to public transport (bus, train, ferry). Living costs in Brisbane are more affordable than Sydney or Melbourne, with average weekly rent around $350–$450 for a share house. The campus is within walking distance of the city centre, South Bank Parklands, and Queensland Performing Arts Centre. Students benefit from a supportive community and excellent facilities.
International students enrolling in the Doctor of Musical Arts will need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study in Australia. This visa allows you to stay for the duration of your course (up to 5 years for doctoral degrees) and includes work rights as described above. Key requirements: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Griffith University, evidence of English proficiency, sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion. OSHC must be arranged before arrival; many providers offer policies that cover the visa length. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; we recommend consulting a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Doctor of Musical Arts at Griffith University:
Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers. Use the CRICOS register to confirm that Griffith University (00233E) is registered. Filter by Doctoral Degree, Music, and location to find suitable courses.
Step 2: Apply directly to your chosen institution. Prepare your documents: academic transcripts, English test results (e.g., IELTS 6.5-7.0), resume, portfolio/audition, and research proposal. Check application deadlines and submit through Griffith University's online portal.
Step 3: Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500). Once Griffith issues your CoE, you can lodge your visa application online, including OSHC and financial evidence. Wait for visa grant before travelling.
Ready to begin your Doctor of Musical Arts journey? Visit Griffith University's website for official details and to start your application.
Doctor of Musical Arts is a CRICOS-registered programme at Griffith University. 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.