Diploma of Music Melbourne Polytechnic

Diploma of Music (120175A) - Melbourne Polytechnic

Diploma of Music (CRICOS course code 120175A) is a Diploma delivered by Melbourne Polytechnic over 1 year. This AQF Level 5 qualification is designed for international students seeking to develop practical and theoretical skills in music performance, composition, or production. As a CRICOS-registered course at a government-owned provider (CRICOS 00724G), it ensures quality and compliance with Australian education standards. Melbourne Polytechnic delivers this program at its Fairfield Campus in Fairfield, Victoria—an inner-north suburb with a thriving arts scene and excellent public transport to Melbourne CBD. Indicative tuition is A$17,200 for the full year, with no mandatory work component. International students benefit from ESOS Act protections, OSHC coverage, and the ability to work part-time. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), which lists over 26,000 courses across 1,500+ registered providers. Whether you aim to pursue further studies or enter the music industry, this diploma offers a focused pathway.

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Course overview

Diploma of Music (CRICOS course code 120175A) is a Diploma-level qualification delivered by Melbourne Polytechnic, a government-owned CRICOS-registered provider (00724G). The course is classified under field of education 10 - Creative Arts, specifically 1001 Performing Arts and 100101 Music. It is designed to equip students with foundational and intermediate skills in music, including performance techniques, music theory, composition, music technology, and ensemble work. This one-year program (52 weeks) is taught in English and leads to a single qualification (AQF Level 5) without any dual or foundation studies components. Melbourne Polytechnic has a strong reputation for vocational education in Victoria, and its Fairfield Campus provides access to modern facilities such as recording studios and performance spaces. The course is ideal for international students seeking to enhance their musical abilities while gaining an accredited Australian qualification that can lead to employment or further study at the bachelor level.

What you'll study

While specific syllabuses are set by Melbourne Polytechnic, a Diploma in Music (100101) typically covers a range of core areas. Students develop technical proficiency in their chosen instrument or voice, explore music theory and analysis, and engage with digital audio workstations for recording and production. Ensemble performance, songwriting, and music industry studies are also common components. The course balances practical workshops with theoretical knowledge, preparing graduates for roles such as session musician, music teacher assistant, or sound technician. Additionally, students gain employability skills like teamwork, project management, and creative problem-solving. As a Diploma, this program is at AQF Level 5, meaning it provides a broad knowledge base with some depth in music practice. It can serve as a stepping stone to a Bachelor of Music or related degrees. For exact subject details, refer to Melbourne Polytechnic's course handbook.

Duration and study mode

The Diploma of Music is a full-time course with a duration of 1 year (52 weeks) on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English, and the program leads to a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies. Students are expected to attend classes at the Fairfield Campus, with a combination of lectures, tutorials, and practical sessions. Melbourne Polytechnic may offer some flexibility in study schedules, but the standard mode is on-campus delivery. The course is CRICOS-registered for international students, ensuring compliance with Australian visa requirements. If you need a part-time option, check with the provider directly, as visa conditions typically require full-time enrollment for Subclass 500 holders.

Fees (indicative - set by Melbourne Polytechnic)

Indicative fees for Diploma of Music (120175A) are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026: tuition fee A$17,200 for the full year, non-tuition fees A$0, and an estimated total of A$17,200. Please note that these fees are indicative only and are set by Melbourne Polytechnic. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (rent, groceries, transport), and the student visa application charge. In Melbourne, living costs average A$400–A$600 per week for accommodation, food, and transport. Always confirm current fees directly with Melbourne Polytechnic via their website (http://www.melbournepolytechnic.edu.au/). HeadStart Academy does not charge referral fees and provides this data for free.

Entry requirements (general guidance)

Entry requirements for the Diploma of Music are determined by Melbourne Polytechnic. General guidance suggests an IELTS overall score of 5.5–6.0 (or equivalent) as evidence of English proficiency. Academic prerequisites typically include completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent overseas qualification. Applicants may also need to demonstrate musical aptitude through an audition or portfolio. Some students may enter via Foundation Studies programs if they do not meet direct entry criteria—check with the provider for pathway options. For specific requirements, contact Melbourne Polytechnic's international admissions. Remember that meeting entry requirements does not guarantee a visa; you must also satisfy the genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criterion and financial capacity.

Work component

This course has no mandatory work component. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are still eligible to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. While the Diploma of Music does not include a work placement, students can seek part-time work in Melbourne's vibrant music scene, such as teaching, performing, or hospitality roles, to gain experience and supplement income.

Delivery locations

Diploma of Music is delivered at Melbourne Polytechnic's Fairfield Campus, located in Fairfield, Victoria. Fairfield is a suburb approximately 7 km northeast of Melbourne's CBD, known for its artistic community and proximity to the Yarra River. The campus is accessible by train (Fairfield Station on the Hurstbridge line) and multiple bus routes. Melbourne has over 50 CRICOS-registered providers offering creative arts courses, with living costs averaging A$400–A$600 per week. The city's student population exceeds 250,000, making it a multicultural hub. Fairfield itself offers affordable rental options compared to the inner city, with typical rent for a shared apartment around A$200–A$300 per week.

Student visa

International students enrolling in this Diploma of Music need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Melbourne Polytechnic, OSHC for the duration of your stay, evidence of financial capacity (tuition, living costs, and return airfare), and fulfillment of the genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criterion. Visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while their course is in session and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. All family members included on the visa must also hold OSHC. It is essential to comply with visa conditions; failing to maintain enrollment or attendance may result in cancellation. For detailed advice, consult a registered migration agent or visit the Department of Home Affairs website.

How to apply

Follow these three steps to apply for Diploma of Music at Melbourne Polytechnic: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use platforms like HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Verify that Melbourne Polytechnic (CRICOS 00724G) is registered to deliver this course. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements (English test scores, academic transcripts, audition/portfolio if required) and submit your application before the deadline. Melbourne Polytechnic may have specific application forms for international students. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, Melbourne Polytechnic will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application online, including evidence of OSHC, finances, and GTE. Seek professional advice if needed.

Ready to pursue your Diploma of Music? Use HeadStart Academy to compare providers, check CRICOS registration, and take the first step toward your Australian study journey.

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Source-backed course facts

Diploma of 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.

CRICOS register extract

Course
Diploma of Music
CRICOS course code
120175A
Provider
Melbourne Polytechnic (00724G)
Course level
Diploma
Field of education
10 - Creative Arts
Duration
52 weeks
Tuition (indicative)
A$17,200
Estimated total (indicative)
A$17,200
Delivery locations
Fairfield
Work component
No

This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.

Important notes for international students

  • Tuition and living-cost figures on this site are indicative only — confirm current fees with the provider before you accept an offer.
  • HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent and does not provide immigration advice. For Student visa (Subclass 500) rules, OSHC and financial capacity, verify with the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA agent.
  • Only CRICOS-registered providers may enrol overseas students. Always check the CRICOS course and provider codes on your offer and Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).

Related pages

Frequently Asked Questions

The indicative tuition fee for Diploma of Music at Melbourne Polytechnic is A$17,200 for the full year (52 weeks), with no additional non-tuition fees listed, totaling A$17,200. However, this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (rent, groceries, transport), or the visa application charge. Fees are subject to change, so always confirm with Melbourne Polytechnic directly. Living costs in Melbourne are typically A$400–A$600 per week.
The Diploma of Music has a duration of 1 year (52 weeks) on the CRICOS register. It is a full-time program delivered in English, with no compulsory work placement. Students are expected to complete the course within this timeframe, though individual progress may vary. Melbourne Polytechnic may offer flexible study options; check with the provider for details.
Entry requirements for Diploma of Music include an IELTS overall score of 5.5–6.0 (or equivalent), completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent, and demonstration of musical ability (e.g., audition, portfolio). Some students may qualify via Foundation Studies. For exact requirements, contact Melbourne Polytechnic's international office. Meeting these does not guarantee a visa; you must also satisfy GTE and financial criteria.
Diploma of Music is delivered at Melbourne Polytechnic's Fairfield Campus in Fairfield, Victoria. Fairfield is an inner-north suburb of Melbourne with good public transport connections (train and bus). The campus offers music facilities such as studios and performance spaces. Melbourne's thriving arts scene provides many opportunities for networking and part-time work.
CRICOS lists estimated total fees of A$17,200 for Diploma of Music (tuition A$17,200). Figures are indicative as at the April 2026 register snapshot — confirm current fees with Melbourne Polytechnic before applying.
The CRICOS course code is 120175A, offered by Melbourne Polytechnic (provider code 00724G). Use these codes when checking your offer and CoE.