Certificate IV in Music (CRICOS course code 111351J) is a Certificate IV delivered by Melbourne Polytechnic over 26 weeks (~6 months). This program is designed for aspiring musicians who want to develop practical skills in performance, composition, music production, or songwriting. As a CRICOS-registered course (00724G), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. Whether you're planning a career in the music industry or seeking to enhance your creative portfolio, this qualification provides a solid foundation. Melbourne Polytechnic, a government-owned TAFE institute, has campuses across Melbourne's north, including Fairfield Campus where this course is delivered. The indicative tuition fee is A$10,640, with no additional non-tuition fees, making it an affordable option for international students. However, you'll also need to budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and visa application costs. Australia is home to over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses – and this Certificate IV in Music is one of them. HeadStart Academy presents this information sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (as at April 2026) to help you make an informed decision.
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Certificate IV in Music (CRICOS course code 111351J) is a Certificate IV delivered by Melbourne Polytechnic over 26 weeks (~6 months). This qualification is classified under the field of Music (100101) within the Creative Arts discipline. At AQF Level 4, graduates typically gain broad theoretical and practical knowledge in music performance, composition, and industry contexts. They learn to apply solutions to defined problems and may supervise others or provide technical advice. Melbourne Polytechnic offers this course at its Fairfield Campus, located in the inner-northern suburbs of Melbourne. As a CRICOS-registered provider (00724G), Melbourne Polytechnic is subject to the ESOS Act protections, ensuring that international students receive quality education and consumer rights. The course is delivered in English and leads to a single qualification (no dual award).
This Certificate IV in Music covers essential areas of the music industry. Students typically develop skills in performance techniques, music theory, composition, arrangement, and music production. They may also learn about the business of music, including marketing, copyright, and event management. The course emphasises practical application through rehearsals, workshops, and performances. While the exact curriculum is set by Melbourne Polytechnic, standard outcomes for this VET qualification (national code CUA40920) include the ability to apply creative thinking, work independently, and collaborate in ensemble settings. Graduates are prepared for roles such as session musician, music tutor, or independent artist. The course also provides a pathway to further study at Diploma or Advanced Diploma level in music.
According to the CRICOS register, this course runs for 26 weeks (~6 months). The language of instruction is English, and it is a single qualification (not a dual award or foundation studies program). Students are expected to attend classes on campus at Fairfield. The course is delivered face-to-face, with practical components requiring access to music facilities. Full-time study is typically required to maintain student visa conditions. For international students, the standard workload is around 20 hours per week of scheduled contact hours, plus independent study. Always confirm the exact study schedule with Melbourne Polytechnic before enrolment.
The indicative tuition fee for Certificate IV in Music is A$10,640. There are no additional non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register, so the estimated total is A$10,640. However, this does not include other essential costs for international students: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (e.g., rent, food, transport), and the visa application charge. For a single student in Melbourne, living costs are approximately A$21,000–A$30,000 per year, depending on lifestyle. You should budget for these separately. Fees are set by Melbourne Polytechnic and are subject to change. Always check the provider's website for the most current fee schedule. HeadStart Academy provides indicative fees sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 – they are not a guarantee.
International students must meet English language and academic entry requirements. A common English proficiency level is IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent). For academic entry, applicants typically need completion of Year 12 or equivalent. Some experience in music may be beneficial. Melbourne Polytechnic may also offer foundation or pathway programs for students who do not meet direct entry requirements. Always check the specific entry requirements on the institution's website or contact their international admissions office. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission, as places may be limited.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. There is no embedded work placement or internship as part of the curriculum. However, students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. All work must comply with visa conditions. The ability to work can help offset living costs and gain local experience.
Certificate IV in Music is delivered at Melbourne Polytechnic's Fairfield Campus, located in Fairfield, Victoria. Fairfield is a suburb about 7 km north-east of Melbourne's CBD. The campus is accessible by train (Fairfield station on the Hurstbridge line) and bus. Melbourne has a large international student community, with over 150,000 international students enrolled in the city. The cost of living in Melbourne is moderate compared to Sydney, with indicative weekly rent for a share house around A$200–A$300, groceries A$80–A$120, and public transport A$40–A$60. Melbourne is known for its vibrant arts and music scene, making it an inspiring location for music students.
To study this course as an international student, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa requires you to meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criteria, have sufficient funds for tuition and living costs, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and be enrolled in a CRICOS-registered course. With a Student visa, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during holidays. Your family members may accompany you on a dependent visa. Always check the Department of Home Affairs for the latest visa requirements. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent – consult a registered MARA agent for personalised advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate IV in Music at Melbourne Polytechnic:
**Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to browse courses and filter by level, field, and location. Confirm that Melbourne Polytechnic (CRICOS 00724G) offers the course you want.
**Step 2: Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Visit Melbourne Polytechnic's website to review entry requirements, English language tests, and application deadlines. Submit your application online with required documents (transcripts, English test scores, portfolio if required).
**Step 3: Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once accepted, you will receive a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you meet GTE and financial requirements.
Ready to start your music journey? Apply now through Melbourne Polytechnic's website or contact their international admissions team for more information.
Certificate IV in Music is a CRICOS-registered programme at Melbourne Polytechnic. 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.