Bachelor of Music (Honours) (CRICOS course code 082790G) is a Bachelor Honours Degree delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 1 year. This AQF Level 8 program is designed for students who have completed a bachelor’s degree in music and wish to deepen their expertise through research and advanced performance. UNSW is a CRICOS-registered provider (00098G) and a member of the Group of Eight, offering world-class facilities at its Kensington campus in Sydney. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, all protected under the ESOS Act. On this page, you’ll find indicative fees, entry requirements, and student visa guidance to help you plan your studies. Always confirm details directly with UNSW and consult a registered migration agent for visa advice.
Bachelor of Music (Honours) (CRICOS course code 082790G) is a Bachelor Honours Degree delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 1 year. As an AQF Level 8 qualification in the field of Creative Arts (Performing Arts – Music), this program builds on undergraduate music studies to develop advanced skills in performance, composition, musicology, or pedagogy. Students engage in supervised research and creative projects, culminating in a thesis or major performance. UNSW, with CRICOS code 00098G, is a government-funded university consistently ranked among the top in Australia. This course is uniquely delivered at the Kensington campus in Sydney, providing access to state-of-the-art rehearsal spaces and performance venues.
This honours program focuses on the field of education 100101 – Music, within the broader discipline of Performing Arts. At this level, students typically extend their theoretical and practical knowledge through critical analysis, research methods, and advanced artistic practice. You may explore areas such as music theory, ethnomusicology, contemporary composition, and performance interpretation. The curriculum encourages independent thinking and prepares graduates for careers as professional musicians, composers, music educators, or for further research at PhD level. While specific modules are set by UNSW, the honours year universally demands a high level of self-direction and scholarly rigor.
The Bachelor of Music (Honours) is a full-time program with a duration of 1 year (52 weeks) as registered on CRICOS. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (not a dual or combined degree) and does not include foundation studies. Students are expected to commit to regular classes, rehearsals, and independent research. Part-time study may be available but is not typical for international students due to visa conditions.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$46,000 per year, as sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026). Non-tuition fees (such as materials, library access, and student services) are estimated at A$1,000, bringing the total to approximately A$47,000. These fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. OSHC for a single student is around A$600–$700 per year. For current, binding fees, always check the UNSW website. Cost of living in Sydney: indicative weekly rent A$300–$500, groceries A$80–$150, transport A$40–$60.
International students typically need an IELTS score of 6.0–6.5 overall, with no band below 5.5–6.0 (equivalent English tests also accepted). Prior qualification: a completed bachelor’s degree in music (or equivalent) with a strong academic record. Some applicants may need to submit a portfolio, audition, or attend an interview. UNSW may offer pathway options for students who do not meet direct entry. Note: this course does not have a foundation studies component. For precise requirements, contact UNSW directly.
This course does not include a mandatory work component (such as an internship or industry placement). However, students may choose to engage in extracurricular performance opportunities. The absence of a work component means your schedule is focused entirely on academic and artistic development.
The course is delivered at The University of New South Wales — Kensington, NSW. Kensington is a bustling suburb of Sydney, home to one of Australia’s largest student populations. The campus is well-connected via light rail, buses, and cycling paths. Sydney boasts over 50 CRICOS-registered institutions and a vibrant cultural scene with world-class music venues. The cost of living in Sydney is among the highest in Australia; budget for weekly expenses of A$500–$800. Students benefit from proximity to the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, Opera House, and numerous performance spaces.
Sydney offers a dynamic environment for music students, with festivals, orchestras, and a thriving independent music scene. UNSW’s Kensington campus is near the CBD and surrounded by creative hubs. However, the high cost of living and competitive audition processes are considerations. If you prefer smaller cities or lower expenses, you may explore programs in Melbourne or Brisbane. Ultimately, your choice should align with your career goals and budget. Use HeadStart Academy’s course search to compare similar honours programs across Australia.
To study this course, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, maintain adequate Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity. As of April 2026, the visa application charge is approximately A$710. Remember, all CRICOS-registered courses like this one are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring your tuition fees and student rights are safeguarded. HeadStart Academy provides general guidance only; for specific visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps to apply: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Bachelor Honours Degree), field (Music), and location (NSW). Confirm the program fits your career plans. 2. Apply directly to UNSW: Check the entry requirements, prepare your English test scores (IELTS 6.0–6.5), portfolio/audition if required, and submit your application by the deadline (typically October for February intake). 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once UNSW issues your CoE, apply for the visa online, arrange OSHC, and prepare for your move to Sydney.
Ready to start your music honours journey? Search more courses on HeadStart Academy or contact UNSW for application details.
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Bachelor of Music (Honours) is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of New South Wales (UNSW). 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.