Bachelor of Music majoring in Creative Practice

Undergraduate | 2026

Degree hero banner
Mode
Mode
Mode
Your study is primarily delivered on campus
On Campus
Start date icon
Start date
Start date
The month you will commence your studies. Exact start date is outlined in the course timetable.
February, July
Duration icon
Duration
Duration
Duration is approximate and based on a full-time study load. Part-time study is not available for international students.
3 year(s) full-time
Program code
Program code
BMUSI
Study as icon
Study as
Full-time
Fees
Indicative annual fees
Indicative annual fees
Published fees are indicative for 2025 , including the compulsory Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF) and appropriate yearly indexation. This is based on the total number of units studied for this program on an annual full-time basis. Please note that your tuition fees may be subject to an annual increase.
$43,400
Prerequisites icon
Prerequisite
Prerequisite
A prerequisite is a required course or/subject that you must have successfully completed before you can enrol into this program.
None
Assumed knowledge icon
Assumed knowledge
Assumed knowledge
Assumed knowledge, while not essential, is where you have a minimum level of understanding in the relevant course area.
None
English Language Requirements icon
English language requirements
IELTS Overall 6.5 IELTS Reading 6.0 IELTS Listening 6.0 IELTS Speaking 6.0 IELTS Writing 6.0 Equivalent English qualifications
CRICOS Code icon
CRICOS code
115735E
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Entry requirements

Admission criteria

To be eligible, an applicant must have achieved at least one of the following minimum entry requirements and demonstrate they fulfil any prerequisite and essential criteria for admission. In cases where there are more eligible applicants than available places, admission will be competitive with ranks based on the entry criteria.

Secondary education (Year 12)

  • Completion of a secondary education qualification equivalent to the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE).

Vocational Education and Training (VET)

  • Completion of an award from a registered training organisation (RTO) at Certificate IV (AQF level 4) or higher.

Higher education study

  • Successful completion of at least 6 months full-time study (or equivalent part-time) of an undergraduate diploma (AQF level 5) or higher qualification at a recognised higher education institution.

Essential requirements

All applicants are required to register for an audition for each major, regardless of the number or type of music programs they are applying for. Selection will be based on audition score as long as academic thresholds are met.

English language entry requirements

In addition, international students who speak English as an additional language must have obtained one of the following standards within the last two years prior to admission. Possession of one or more of these qualifications, in addition to the academic entry requirements, does not, in itself, guarantee a place at Adelaide University. Applications are considered on an individual basis and selection is competitive. Where previous study/work experience was conducted in English, the application must be accompanied by certified documentation from the educational institution/employer certifying that the language of instruction/employment was English.

  • IELTS Overall 6.5
  • IELTS Reading 6.0
  • IELTS Listening 6.0
  • IELTS Speaking 6.0
  • IELTS Writing 6.0

Please access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by Adelaide University and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements:

Equivalent English qualifications

Why Bachelor of Music?

Are you creative with a passion for music? Are you interested in writing for orchestra or performing music for thousands?

Do you have a passion for technology and working behind-the-scenes? With a Bachelor of Music majoring in Creative Practice, get ready to create the next generation of music for the entertainment industry. Compose, record and perform music, while working closely with other artists. Maybe you’ll write music for the world’s biggest stages. Perhaps you’ll create video game soundtracks. Explore career opportunities spanning music composition, song writing, performance, sound production and music technology.

program overview

Overview

The Bachelor of Music will build your technical skills, musical knowledge and professional standards needed to work in the music industry. 

Through a major in Creative Practice, you’ll explore what it takes to become a creative in the 21st century. With courses in composition, popular music and sonic arts, we cater to all facets of the music industry. Take courses spanning music composition and contemporary song writing and performance – through to studio and live sound production, practical film and game sound, and emerging technologies such as AI and Extended Reality.  Master recording, arranging and composing. Deliver unique experiences to listeners through technology. Have the support of mentors to guide your development. Perform your creative work to real audiences and learn to successfully promote yourself and others. 

With your musical expertise, you’ll be prepared for a variety of careers. You could use your skills across creative industries including music, film, gaming or events.  

What you'll learn

As part of your studies, you will complete core courses; a range of specialised composition, popular music or sonic arts courses; elective courses; and a capstone course.  

Core courses will include topics on life in music and music technology foundations. You’ll develop a practical and theoretical understanding of music technology including sound, audio and MIDI, and begin investigating potential careers as a professional musician. 

Your composition, popular music and sonic arts courses will span topics on compositional techniques, song writing and performance, contemporary musicianship, sound engineering and more. 

In composition classes, you’ll learn the fundamentals of composition – exploring styles, structures, notation and score presentation. In popular music classes, you’ll develop your song writing, performance and production skills with an emphasis on contemporary music. Your sonic arts classes will explore the artistic and technical use of music technology including sound production, film and game sound, computer music and electronics. In your capstone course, you’ll learn about arts entrepreneurship and perform a public recital promoting yourself and your creative work.  

Throughout your music degree, you’ll participate in a mixture of workshops, seminars, performances, rehearsals and more.  

Majors 

The Bachelor of Music is also available with majors in the following: 

What courses you'll study

Complete 144 units comprising:

  • 6 units for all Core courses, and
  • 96 to 114 units for one Major from Majors, and
  • 24 to 42 units for Electives

Complete 6 units for ALL of the following:

Course name Course code Units
course icon
Course name
Life in Music
Course code
MUSI1036
Units
6

Complete 108 units comprising:

  • One of the following:
  • 108 units from Composition, or
  • 108 units from Popular Music, or
  • 108 units from Sonic Arts

Course name Course code Units
course icon
Course name
Music Technology Foundations
Course code
MUSI1000
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Composition 1A
Course code
MUSI1001
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Musicianship 1A
Course code
MUSI1004
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Composition 1B
Course code
MUSI1006
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Musicianship 1B
Course code
MUSI1009
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Orchestration 1
Course code
MUSI1019
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Contemporary Music in Practice 3
Course code
MUSI3022
Units
12
course icon
Course name
From Elvis to YouTube II
Course code
MUSI2001
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Music, Media & Contemporary Society II
Course code
MUSI2009
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Musics of the World II
Course code
MUSI2011
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Foundations of Conducting
Course code
MUSI2015
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Indigenous Music: Roots & Key Concepts
Course code
MUSI2016
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Orchestration 2
Course code
MUSI2017
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Music Analysis 2
Course code
MUSI2019
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Music Education in Theory and Practice 2A
Course code
MUSI2020
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Music Education in Theory and Practice 2B
Course code
MUSI2022
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Song Writing & Performance 2A
Course code
MUSI2028
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Song Writing & Performance 2B
Course code
MUSI2030
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Sonic Arts in Practice 2
Course code
MUSI2031
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Computer Music Composition 2
Course code
MUSI2032
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Sound Engineering Live
Course code
MUSI2033
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Sound Design for Film II
Course code
MUSI2034
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Circuit Bending and Hardware Hacking
Course code
MUSI2035
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Methods in Music Research
Course code
MUSI3001
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Advanced Sound Engineering 3
Course code
MUSI3003
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Music Research 3
Course code
MUSI3006
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Jazz Arranging
Course code
MUSI3013
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Music, Health and Wellbeing
Course code
MUSI3014
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Music, Media & Contemporary Society III
Course code
MUSI3016
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Conducting: Choral & Instrumental Techniques
Course code
MUSI3017
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Interaction Design and the Sonic Arts 3
Course code
MUSI3018
Units
6
course icon
Course name
The Sampled Source
Course code
MUSI3019
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Orchestration 3
Course code
MUSI3020
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Music Analysis 3
Course code
MUSI3023
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Music Education in Theory and Practice 3
Course code
MUSI3024
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Song Writing & Performance 3
Course code
MUSI3030
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Sonic Arts in Practice 3
Course code
MUSI3032
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Computer Music Composition 3
Course code
MUSI3033
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Sound Design for Games III
Course code
MUSI3034
Units
6
course icon
Course name
International Study Tour: Music
Course code
MUSI3035
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Music Internship
Course code
MUSI3900
Units
6

Course name Course code Units
course icon
Course name
Music Technology Foundations
Course code
MUSI1000
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Contemporary Musicianship 1A
Course code
MUSI1012
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Contemporary Musicianship 1B
Course code
MUSI1014
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Contemporary Music in Practice 1
Course code
MUSI1020
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Song Writing & Performance 1A
Course code
MUSI1030
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Song Writing & Performance 1B
Course code
MUSI1032
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Contemporary Music in Practice 3
Course code
MUSI3022
Units
12
course icon
Course name
From Elvis to YouTube II
Course code
MUSI2001
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Music, Media & Contemporary Society II
Course code
MUSI2009
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Musics of the World II
Course code
MUSI2011
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Foundations of Conducting
Course code
MUSI2015
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Indigenous Music: Roots & Key Concepts
Course code
MUSI2016
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Orchestration 2
Course code
MUSI2017
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Music Analysis 2
Course code
MUSI2019
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Music Education in Theory and Practice 2A
Course code
MUSI2020
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Music Education in Theory and Practice 2B
Course code
MUSI2022
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Song Writing & Performance 2A
Course code
MUSI2028
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Song Writing & Performance 2B
Course code
MUSI2030
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Sonic Arts in Practice 2
Course code
MUSI2031
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Computer Music Composition 2
Course code
MUSI2032
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Sound Engineering Live
Course code
MUSI2033
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Sound Design for Film II
Course code
MUSI2034
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Circuit Bending and Hardware Hacking
Course code
MUSI2035
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Methods in Music Research
Course code
MUSI3001
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Advanced Sound Engineering 3
Course code
MUSI3003
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Music Research 3
Course code
MUSI3006
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Jazz Arranging
Course code
MUSI3013
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Music, Health and Wellbeing
Course code
MUSI3014
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Music, Media & Contemporary Society III
Course code
MUSI3016
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Conducting: Choral & Instrumental Techniques
Course code
MUSI3017
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Interaction Design and the Sonic Arts 3
Course code
MUSI3018
Units
6
course icon
Course name
The Sampled Source
Course code
MUSI3019
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Orchestration 3
Course code
MUSI3020
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Music Analysis 3
Course code
MUSI3023
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Music Education in Theory and Practice 3
Course code
MUSI3024
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Song Writing & Performance 3
Course code
MUSI3030
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Sonic Arts in Practice 3
Course code
MUSI3032
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Computer Music Composition 3
Course code
MUSI3033
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Sound Design for Games III
Course code
MUSI3034
Units
6
course icon
Course name
International Study Tour: Music
Course code
MUSI3035
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Music Internship
Course code
MUSI3900
Units
6

Course name Course code Units
course icon
Course name
Music Technology Foundations
Course code
MUSI1000
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Music & Sound Fundamentals 1A
Course code
MUSI1003
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Music & Sound Fundamentals 1B
Course code
MUSI1008
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Sound Engineering
Course code
MUSI1033
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Sonic Arts
Course code
MUSI1034
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Sonic Arts in Practice 1
Course code
MUSI1035
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Contemporary Music in Practice 3
Course code
MUSI3022
Units
12
course icon
Course name
From Elvis to YouTube II
Course code
MUSI2001
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Music, Media & Contemporary Society II
Course code
MUSI2009
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Musics of the World II
Course code
MUSI2011
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Foundations of Conducting
Course code
MUSI2015
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Indigenous Music: Roots & Key Concepts
Course code
MUSI2016
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Orchestration 2
Course code
MUSI2017
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Music Analysis 2
Course code
MUSI2019
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Music Education in Theory and Practice 2A
Course code
MUSI2020
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Music Education in Theory and Practice 2B
Course code
MUSI2022
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Song Writing & Performance 2A
Course code
MUSI2028
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Song Writing & Performance 2B
Course code
MUSI2030
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Sonic Arts in Practice 2
Course code
MUSI2031
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Computer Music Composition 2
Course code
MUSI2032
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Sound Engineering Live
Course code
MUSI2033
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Sound Design for Film II
Course code
MUSI2034
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Circuit Bending and Hardware Hacking
Course code
MUSI2035
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Methods in Music Research
Course code
MUSI3001
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Advanced Sound Engineering 3
Course code
MUSI3003
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Music Research 3
Course code
MUSI3006
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Jazz Arranging
Course code
MUSI3013
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Music, Health and Wellbeing
Course code
MUSI3014
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Music, Media & Contemporary Society III
Course code
MUSI3016
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Conducting: Choral & Instrumental Techniques
Course code
MUSI3017
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Interaction Design and the Sonic Arts 3
Course code
MUSI3018
Units
6
course icon
Course name
The Sampled Source
Course code
MUSI3019
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Orchestration 3
Course code
MUSI3020
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Music Analysis 3
Course code
MUSI3023
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Music Education in Theory and Practice 3
Course code
MUSI3024
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Song Writing & Performance 3
Course code
MUSI3030
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Sonic Arts in Practice 3
Course code
MUSI3032
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Computer Music Composition 3
Course code
MUSI3033
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Sound Design for Games III
Course code
MUSI3034
Units
6
course icon
Course name
International Study Tour: Music
Course code
MUSI3035
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Music Internship
Course code
MUSI3900
Units
6

Complete 24 to 42 units comprising:

  • 24 to 42 units for Program electives

Course name Course code Units

How to apply

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Check your eligibility

Before you begin, find the degree you wish to study and check you meet the academic entry requirements and English language requirements.

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Gather your relevant documents

Ensure you have all supporting documentation needed at the time of application to avoid delays.

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Complete and send your application

Apply through one of the University’s official agency partners, or via our online application system.

How to Apply

How to apply

Applications for international students are open now, to begin your studies in 2026.

Apply through one of the University’s official Education Agents, or via our International Application System.

Find an Education Agent

Depending on your country of citizenship, you may be required to apply through one of our Education Agents.

FAQs

Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.


Applications for Australian students to study at Adelaide University will open in August 2025. Applications will be via SATAC for most undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs.

Applications to study a 100% online degree will open in July 2025 via a direct application process.

In the meantime, you could start your studies at UniSA or the University of Adelaide in 2025 and continue on to Adelaide University in 2026.

Adelaide University is South Australia’s largest university with seven campuses across the state. Adelaide City Campus is in the heart of the central business district (including eastern and western precincts), while our Magill, Mawson Lakes and Waite campuses are located within the inner suburbs of Adelaide. Our Mount Gambier, Roseworthy and Whyalla campuses are set in the regions of South Australia. Building on our digital and online learning successes, we aim to also deliver online education to more students than any other Australian university. 

Each of our campuses is equipped with cutting-edge, discipline specific facilities, contemporary study spaces and well-resourced libraries. Our city and suburban campuses also feature on-site gyms and eateries, and health services on, or nearby, campus. 

You will be well supported academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually with access to on-campus facilities and services such as counselling, learning support, childcare, prayer rooms and more.

You will be well supported through a range of services at Adelaide University to ensure you get the most out of your student experience. Support services include:

  • Academic learning support, spanning assistance with writing, referencing, mathematics and more.
  • Advice and advocacy regarding access, adjustments and inclusivity if you have a disability, impairment, chronic health condition or significant caring responsibilities. 
  • Libraries providing flexible study spaces, access to books, computer suites and online resources – as well as referencing support, search tips and more.
  • Career development hub, including extensive self-help resources, online learning programs, on-campus events, workshops and networking, one-on-one advice, and job search support.
  • Qualified counsellors who can provide confidential support to manage your mental health and wellbeing.
  • On-campus medical clinics on-site where you can make an appointment with a General Practitioner to discuss acute and preventative health care matters.
  • Information and advice for international students regarding accommodation, student life, and academic policies and procedures.
  • An active and visible LGBTIQA+ Ally Network that ensures the University provides a supportive environment where all staff and students can safely work and study free of harassment or discrimination.
  • Prayer rooms on campus, including gender specific spaces for worship purposes.
  • Campus security available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to ensure all students feel safe on campus.
  • A range of scholarships offered to commencing and continuing students each year to make university life a little easier.
  • A number of social outlets including student lounges, gyms, student-led clubs, sports teams and free events throughout the year.

Your tuition fees will depend on your program of study and enrolment load. You can find the annual fees relevant to your program on the specific degree page under the ‘fees’ section. The annual fee payable for your chosen program will also be outlined in your Offer of Admission. 

Adelaide University will open in January 2026. Your studies will start at different times depending on what study period you’ve applied for. Adelaide University is currently using a semester model, which means most degrees start in Semester 1. Some degrees are also available to start in mid-year, sometimes with a different degree structure. 

Studies at Adelaide University typically commence in:  

  • February for Semester 1  
  • July for Semester 2. 

Some degrees, such as the Bachelor of Medical Studies and Master of Business Administration, will have different starting dates. View the relevant degree page for more detail. 

For other key dates, including census dates and exam periods, you can view the Academic calendar. 

Your study experience and support

Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.

You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.

Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.

Student services

We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:

  • Career advice and mentoring services
  • Personal counselling
  • LGBTQIA+ support
  • Academic support
  • Fees and finance help
  • Security services
  • Accommodation services
  • Common rooms
  • Prayer rooms.

You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.

Your campus

You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.

This degree is offered at the following campus(es)

Study hours

Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week. 

 

Assessment

During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include: 

  • Case studies  
  • Essays and assignments  
  • Examinations  
  • Group projects  
  • Internships and placements  
  • Practicals  
  • Presentations  
  • Reports and project documentations 
  • Research projects 
  • Workplace and classroom contributions. 
Graduates

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Scholarships

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