Master of Music Studies (Composition) (CRICOS course code 090780K) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by The University of Sydney over 2 years. This page provides comprehensive information including fees, entry requirements, work components, and student visa guidance to help you decide if this course is right for you. The University of Sydney is a CRICOS-registered provider (00026A) and a leading Australian government university. This course is perfect for music graduates seeking advanced composition skills and creative practice. With Australia's vibrant arts scene and world-class facilities at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, you'll gain both theoretical depth and practical experience. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) and is indicative only. For the latest information, always confirm directly with the provider.
Master of Music Studies (Composition) (CRICOS code 090780K) is a 2-year (104-week) Masters Degree (Coursework) at AQF Level 9, offered by The University of Sydney. This program is classified under Field of Education 100101 - Music, within Creative Arts. It is a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies. The language of instruction is English. The course includes a mandatory work component of 12 weeks (12 hours per week, approximately 144 total hours) providing industry placement or internship experience. The indicative tuition fee is A$96,400, plus non-tuition fees of A$752, totalling an estimated A$97,152 (excludes OSHC, living costs, and visa charges). The delivery location is the Sydney Conservatorium of Music in Sydney, NSW.
This Masters program focuses on advanced composition techniques, music theory, and creative practice. Students typically engage in specialised coursework covering contemporary composition, orchestration, electronic music, and musicology. The curriculum emphasises original creative work and research, preparing graduates for careers as composers, educators, or arts professionals. While specific syllabi are set by the institution, graduates at this level develop high-level analytical skills, critical thinking, and the ability to produce portfolio-level original compositions. The program integrates practical workshops, collaborative projects, and exposure to industry-standard technology and performance venues.
The course duration is 2 years (104 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. It is a full-time program with English as the language of instruction. This is a single qualification (no dual qualification). The course does not include foundation studies. Students are expected to attend classes at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music campus. The structure includes both coursework and a work-integrated learning component, which runs for 12 weeks (12 hours per week). The program is designed to be completed continuously, with typical annual intake periods set by The University of Sydney.
The indicative tuition fee for Master of Music Studies (Composition) is A$96,400 for the full 2-year program. Non-tuition fees (materials, etc.) are approximately A$752, giving an estimated total of A$97,152. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by The University of Sydney. They are subject to change. Not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (accommodation, food, transport), and the student visa application charge (currently A$1,600). For current fees, always check The University of Sydney's website. Sydney's indicative weekly living costs are: rent (A$450–600), groceries (A$80–120), transport (A$40–50). These are estimates only.
Typical entry requirements for this Masters level include a Bachelor's degree in music or equivalent, with a strong portfolio of compositions. English language proficiency: IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall (or equivalent). Specific prerequisites are set by The University of Sydney; students must submit a portfolio and may need an audition or interview. Foundation or pathway options are available through the University's Centre for English Teaching or other bridging programs. Always confirm exact requirements with the provider before applying. HeadStart Academy does not guarantee admission; consult The University of Sydney for the most current criteria.
This course includes a mandatory work component: 12 weeks of placement, totalling approximately 144 hours (12 hours per week). This is a form of work-integrated learning (WIL) such as an industry internship, creative project with an external partner, or professional placement in a music organisation. It provides practical experience in composition, production, or arts management. The placement is arranged or supported by the university and is assessed as part of the degree. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can undertake this work component as it is a formal course requirement.
This course is delivered at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, located in the heart of Sydney, NSW. The Conservatorium is part of The University of Sydney, a CRICOS-registered government university. Sydney is a major global city with over 1,200 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student population (approx. 250,000). The campus is accessible via public transport (train, bus, light rail). Living costs in Sydney are higher than the Australian average; weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment near the city centre is typically A$500–700, while a shared room may cost A$300–450. Students benefit from Sydney's vibrant arts scene, including opera houses, concert halls, and galleries.
Sydney is Australia's largest city, home to over 120,000 international students from 200+ countries. The city offers a diverse cultural environment, excellent public transport, and world-class amenities. For music students, Sydney provides access to major orchestras, recording studios, and festivals. The cost of living is moderate to high: budget at least A$25,000 per year for living expenses plus course fees. HeadStart Academy helps you compare options across Australia's 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers (April 2026). Contact us for a free consultation.
To study this course, international students need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and dependents (approx. A$29,710 per year for a single student), and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Students with a Student visa can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. The visa is tied to your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Always apply through the Department of Home Affairs and consider consulting a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for Master of Music Studies (Composition) at The University of Sydney: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Confirm the provider's registration status on the CRICOS register (cricos.education.gov.au). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Visit The University of Sydney's website (sydney.edu.au) to review entry requirements, submit your portfolio, and meet application deadlines. Provide evidence of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.). 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once accepted, the university will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Remember to arrange OSHC and demonstrate genuine temporary stay.
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Master of Music Studies (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.