Bachelor of Music (Composition) (CRICOS course code 111590E) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by The Australian Institute of Music Limited over 3 years. This course is designed for aspiring composers who want to develop their creative voice and technical skills in music composition. Students explore a range of contemporary and classical composition techniques, music theory, digital music production, and collaboration with performers. Graduates are prepared for careers as composers, arrangers, music directors, and educators. The program is taught at two campuses: The Rocks, NSW and Melbourne, VIC. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 00665C), it meets the standards required for international student enrolment under the ESOS Act.
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This course falls under the field of education '10 - Creative Arts' (Performing Arts, Music). At AQF Level 7, a Bachelor Degree typically involves depth of study in one or more disciplines and prepares graduates for professional work or further learning. In composition, students learn to create original music for various media, develop notation and arranging skills, understand musical structures, and engage with contemporary music practices. The curriculum often includes core subjects in music theory, aural training, music history, and electives in areas like film scoring, electronic music, or jazz composition. While specific units are set by the provider, graduates gain the ability to conceive, develop, and produce musical works. Always confirm the current syllabus with The Australian Institute of Music Limited.
The Bachelor of Music (Composition) is a 3-year program, equating to 156 weeks on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual award) and does not include foundation studies. Students study full-time on campus at either of the two delivery locations. There is no work component integrated into the course. As a CRICOS-registered course, international students must maintain full-time enrolment and adhere to visa conditions regarding attendance and academic progress.
According to the CRICOS register (April 2026), the indicative tuition fee for this course is A$81,648 for the full 3 years. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0, bringing the estimated total to A$81,648. Important: this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. Living costs in Australia vary by city — for example, weekly rent in Sydney can range from A$250–$400 and in Melbourne from A$200–$350, with groceries and transport adding approximately A$150–$250 per week. Fees are set by the institution and subject to change, so always check the provider's website for the most current information. Contact The Australian Institute of Music Limited at www.aim.edu.au for precise fee details.
International students typically need to demonstrate English language proficiency equivalent to an IELTS overall band score of 6.0–6.5, with no band below 5.5–6.0. Other accepted tests (e.g., TOEFL, PTE) may be considered. For a Bachelor Degree, applicants should have completed Australian Year 12 or an overseas equivalent. Some courses may require a portfolio, audition, or interview. The provider may offer foundation or pathway programs for students who do not meet direct entry requirements. Always check The Australian Institute of Music Limited's official entry requirements, as they set their own standards. Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.
No work component This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international 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. This can provide valuable industry experience and income support. Note that work rights are subject to visa conditions, and students must not compromise their study commitments.
This course is delivered at two campuses: 66 Harrington St, The Rocks, NSW 2000 and the Melbourne Campus in Victoria. The Rocks campus is in the heart of Sydney's historic district, close to public transport, with numerous cafes, galleries, and music venues. Melbourne's campus is located in Australia's cultural capital, known for its live music scene and creative industries. Both cities have large international student populations: Sydney is home to over 200,000 international students and Melbourne to over 150,000. The campuses are accessible via train, bus, and light rail. Living costs in Sydney are generally higher than in Melbourne. Explore more about studying in NSW and Melbourne through HeadStart Academy's location guides.
International students studying this course need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criterion, evidence of sufficient funds (tuition, living costs, OSHC), and English proficiency. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for the duration of the visa. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while studying and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. After graduation, students may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485). Note: all visa applications are processed by the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice — consult a registered MARA agent for personalised assistance.
Choosing between NSW and Victoria depends on your preferences. NSW (specifically Sydney) offers a vibrant music scene with many performance venues and recording studios, but higher living costs. Victoria (Melbourne) is renowned for its live music culture and lower rental costs. Both states have excellent public transport and diverse communities. Consider your budget, lifestyle, and career goals when selecting a campus. HeadStart Academy's state pages provide detailed comparisons.
Follow these 3 steps to apply for Bachelor of Music (Composition) at The Australian Institute of Music Limited: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Bachelor Degree), field (Creative Arts), and city (Sydney or Melbourne). The Australian Institute of Music Limited is CRICOS-registered (00665C), ensuring quality. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements (including English test and portfolio if required), prepare documents, and submit your application before the deadline. Contact the provider's international admissions team for guidance. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, the provider will issue a CoE. Use it to apply for a visa via the Department of Home Affairs. Include proof of funds, OSHC, and GTE statement.
Ready to apply? Start your research on HeadStart Academy to compare CRICOS-registered courses and providers.
View the full The Australian Institute of Music Limited profile →
Bachelor of Music (Composition) is a CRICOS-registered programme at The Australian Institute of Music Limited. 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.