Bachelor of Music (Honours) (CRICOS course code 106820E) is a Bachelor Honours Degree delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 4 years. This program is designed for students who want to deepen their musical expertise and research skills at AQF Level 8. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00098G), it meets Australian Government standards for international students. Whether you aim to become a performer, composer, educator, or researcher, this honours degree provides a rigorous foundation in music theory, history, and practical performance. UNSW is located in Kensington, NSW, with easy access to Sydney's vibrant arts scene. All data on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026).
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Bachelor of Music (Honours) (CRICOS course code 106820E) is a Bachelor Honours Degree delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 4 years (208 weeks). It falls under the field of education 10 - Creative Arts, specifically 1001 - Performing Arts (Music). This level 8 qualification prepares graduates for advanced professional practice or further research. UNSW is a government-funded university (CRICOS 00098G) located in Kensington, New South Wales. The course is taught in English and is not a dual qualification or foundation program. No mandatory work component is included. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, international students are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring quality education and consumer rights.
Students undertaking the Bachelor of Music (Honours) will engage with advanced concepts in music performance, composition, musicology, and research methodologies. The program typically includes a major project or thesis that demonstrates independent scholarly or creative work. At AQF Level 8, graduates develop high-level critical thinking and problem-solving skills applicable to music careers. While specific subjects vary, the curriculum is designed to build on undergraduate knowledge and produce graduates capable of leading in their chosen field. UNSW's music program benefits from its location in Sydney, a city with a thriving cultural sector and numerous performance venues.
The course duration is 4 years full-time (208 weeks according to the CRICOS register). Language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification, not a combined or dual degree. There is no online or part-time option shown in the CRICOS record; students should confirm study modes directly with UNSW. The standard full-time load is 8 subjects per year (or equivalent).
Tuition fees for Bachelor of Music (Honours) are indicative at A$193,000 total. Non-tuition fees (e.g., materials, facilities) add approximately A$4,000, making an estimated total of A$197,000. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register and are subject to change. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) — approximately A$500–$700 per year for single cover; living expenses — about A$21,000–$27,000 per year depending on lifestyle; and the visa application charge (currently A$1,600 for the main applicant). Always check UNSW's website for the most current fees and scholarship opportunities. Over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offer more than 26,000 courses across Australia, so comparing costs is wise.
International students typically need a completed Bachelor degree in Music (or equivalent) with a strong academic record. For English proficiency, the CRICOS register lists an IELTS range of 6.0-6.5 overall with no band below 5.5-6.0. Alternative tests like TOEFL or PTE are often accepted. Meeting these requirements does not guarantee admission; UNSW may have additional criteria such as auditions or portfolios. Foundation or pathway options may be available through UNSW Global or partner institutions. Always refer to the provider's official entry requirements. Under the ESOS Act, institutions must publish accurate admission criteria.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, student visa holders (Subclass 500) may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Work rights allow international students to gain experience and offset living costs. Sydney's employment market for musicians is competitive, but casual roles in hospitality or tutoring are common.
The course is delivered at The University of New South Wales — Kensington, NSW. Kensington is a suburb approximately 6 km southeast of Sydney's central business district. The campus is well-served by public transport (light rail, buses). Sydney is home to over 130,000 international students and has a cost of living estimated at A$500–$800 per week for rent (shared), A$60–$100 for groceries, and A$30–$50 for public transport. The city offers a vibrant cultural scene with numerous music venues, orchestras, and festivals.
To study this course, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from UNSW, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient funds for tuition and living costs, OSHC cover, and meeting English proficiency. Student work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. OSHC is mandatory and can be arranged through providers such as Allianz, Medibank, or Bupa. The visa application fee is approximately A$1,600 (subject to change). Always consult the Department of Home Affairs for the latest conditions. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; speak to a MARA-registered agent for your specific case.
A music honours degree is a significant investment of time and money. Australia offers over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers, but UNSW is one of the leading Group of Eight universities. Consider your career goals: honours provides a pathway to research (PhD) or advanced professional roles. Sydney's cost of living is higher than other cities, but job opportunities in the arts are concentrated here. The ESOS Act protects your tuition fees through the Tuition Protection Service. Also think about the practical aspects: practice facilities, performance opportunities, and industry connections. UNSW's campus offers modern music studios and libraries. If you are unsure, contact students or alumni through university forums.
Follow these steps to apply for Bachelor of Music (Honours) at The University of New South Wales (UNSW):
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** — Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Bachelor Honours), field (Music), and location (Sydney). Verify that UNSW is CRICOS-registered (00098G).
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** — Check UNSW's website for entry requirements, English test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.), and application deadlines. Submit your academic transcripts, personal statement, and any portfolios or audition requirements.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** — Once UNSW issues your CoE, prepare your visa application online. Include OSHC evidence, financial documents, and a GTE statement. Apply well before course start dates to allow processing time (average 4–8 weeks).
Remember: HeadStart Academy is a free resource — we do not charge referral fees. All data comes from the official CRICOS register (April 2026).
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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.