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 - Audition
All applicants are required to register for an audition for each major and/or instrument they are applying for. For example, if you are auditioning for both voice and strings, you will need to register for two auditions in total. Selection will be based on audition score as long as academic thresholds are met.
Auditions take place in November each year. If you are interstate or overseas and cannot attend an in-person audition, you can opt to submit a recorded audition when completing your registration form.
How to register for an audition
1. Complete the Honours Music Programs registration audition form.
2. Pay the non-refundable audition registration fee online via our online portal.
3. Read the audition requirements and prepare your material.
If you need help working out your fee or have questions about the payment process, please contact auditions@adelaide.edu.au
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
- IELTS Listening 6
- IELTS Speaking 6
- IELTS Writing 6
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 qualificationsWhy Bachelor of Music (Honours)?
Develop a unique style and advance your jazz performance training.
Our Bachelor of Music (Honours) majoring in Jazz Performance will help you stand out from the crowd. Build your research skills, seeking answers to questions no one else is asking in the music world. Challenge yourself with advanced coursework. Gain a completive edge and broaden your career prospects. No matter your end goal, this degree will launch you into the career of your dreams.
 
    
    
    
Overview
The Bachelor of Music (Honours) will provide you with the advanced technical, musical and research skills to grow as a musician, performer or progress into music academia.
With your major in Jazz Performance, you’ll fine-tune your skills with chances to perform and compose for assessment. Research your passions through analysing texts and writing papers relevant to your major. Get advice, support and guidance from world-class academics and performers. Develop a unique style, giving you a competitive edge in the job market. Broaden your career prospects by deepening your expertise in jazz performance. Graduate with the essential skills and confidence you’ll need for a successful music career.
Key features
- Complete advanced coursework in Jazz Performance. 
- Perform and compose at an advanced level. 
- Investigate a research question relevant to your major in Jazz Performance. 
- Partner with an academic mentor who’ll support your development. 
- Sharpen your ability to write, think and communicate creatively. 
- Connect with staff from one of the most established music institutions in Australia, the Elder Conservatorium of Music. 
What you'll learn
The Bachelor of Music (Honours) majoring in Jazz Performance has two core courses and a major project. Courses will include the following:
- Honours Music Research Methodology: identify, articulate and investigate a research question relevant to your major in Jazz Performance.
- Honours Music Minor Project: perform a 35-minute program in the small ensemble setting, relevant to your Jazz Performance major.
- Honours Music Major Project: produce a significant performance with a complementary exegesis, relevant to your Jazz Performance major.
Assessments will include presentations, original compositions, performances and research papers.
Majors
The Bachelor of Music (Honours) is also available with majors in the following:
 
    
    
    
What courses you'll study
Complete 192 units comprising:
- 54 units from Core courses, and
- 96 to 114 units for one Major from Majors, and
- 24 to 42 units for Electives
Complete exactly 54 units from the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Course nameLife in Music | Course code MUSI1036 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameHonours Music Research Methodology | Course code MUSI4000 | Units 12 | |
| Course nameHonours Music Minor Project | Course code MUSI4001 | Units 12 | |
| Course nameHonours Music Major Project | Course code MUSI4002 | Units 24 | |
| Course nameHonours Music Final Performance Popular Music | Course code MUSI4003 | Units 12 | |
| Course nameHonours Music Major Project Part 1 | Course code MUSI4004 | Units 0 | |
| Course nameHonours Music Major Project Part 2 | Course code MUSI4005 | Units 24 | |
Notes
- If studying the Popular Music Pathway in CREPHMUSI - Creative Practice , then students must complete EITHER MUSI4001 - Honours Music Minor Project OR MUSI4003 - Honours Music Final Performance Popular Music 
Complete 114 units for ALL of the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Course nameJazz Performance 1A | Course code MUSI1002 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameJazz Performance 1B | Course code MUSI1007 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameJazz History | Course code MUSI1017 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameJazz Musicianship 1A | Course code MUSI1022 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameJazz Musicianship 1B | Course code MUSI1024 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameMusic Professional Development 1A | Course code MUSI1029 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameMusic Professional Development 1B | Course code MUSI1031 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameJazz Performance 2A | Course code MUSI2002 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameJazz Performance 2B | Course code MUSI2006 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameJazz Musicianship 2A | Course code MUSI2021 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameJazz Musicianship 2B | Course code MUSI2023 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameMusic Professional Development 2A | Course code MUSI2027 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameMusic Professional Development 2B | Course code MUSI2029 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameJazz Performance 3A | Course code MUSI3002 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameJazz Performance 3B | Course code MUSI3007 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameJazz Arranging | Course code MUSI3013 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameJazz Musicianship 3 | Course code MUSI3025 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameMusic Professional Development 3A | Course code MUSI3029 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameMusic Professional Development 3B | Course code MUSI3031 | Units 6 | |
Complete 24 to 42 units for either of the following:
- 24 to 42 units from Program electives - closed, or
- 24 to 42 units for all Program electives - open
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Course nameMusic Technology Foundations | Course code MUSI1000 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameMusic & Sound Fundamentals 1A | Course code MUSI1003 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameMusic & Sound Fundamentals 1B | Course code MUSI1008 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameFrom Elvis to YouTube I | Course code MUSI1011 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameMusics of the World I | Course code MUSI1013 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameSound & Media | Course code MUSI1018 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameOrchestration 1 | Course code MUSI1019 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameFoundations of Music Education 1A | Course code MUSI1021 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameFoundations of Music Education 1B | Course code MUSI1023 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameSong Writing & Performance 1A | Course code MUSI1030 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameSong Writing & Performance 1B | Course code MUSI1032 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameSound Engineering | Course code MUSI1033 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameSonic Arts | Course code MUSI1034 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameSonic Arts in Practice 1 | Course code MUSI1035 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameFrom Elvis to YouTube II | Course code MUSI2001 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameMusic, Media & Contemporary Society II | Course code MUSI2009 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameMusics of the World II | Course code MUSI2011 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameFoundations of Conducting | Course code MUSI2015 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameOrchestration 2 | Course code MUSI2017 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameMusic Analysis 2 | Course code MUSI2019 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameMusic Education in Theory and Practice 2A | Course code MUSI2020 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameMusic Education in Theory and Practice 2B | Course code MUSI2022 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameSong Writing & Performance 2A | Course code MUSI2028 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameSong Writing & Performance 2B | Course code MUSI2030 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameSonic Arts in Practice 2 | Course code MUSI2031 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameComputer Music Composition 2 | Course code MUSI2032 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameSound Engineering Live | Course code MUSI2033 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameSound Design for Film II | Course code MUSI2034 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameCircuit Bending and Hardware Hacking | Course code MUSI2035 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameMethods in Music Research | Course code MUSI3001 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameAdvanced Sound Engineering 3 | Course code MUSI3003 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameMusic Research 3 | Course code MUSI3006 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameJazz Arranging | Course code MUSI3013 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameMusic, Health and Wellbeing | Course code MUSI3014 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameMusic, Media & Contemporary Society III | Course code MUSI3016 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameConducting: Choral & Instrumental Techniques | Course code MUSI3017 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameInteraction Design and the Sonic Arts 3 | Course code MUSI3018 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameThe Sampled Source | Course code MUSI3019 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameOrchestration 3 | Course code MUSI3020 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameMusic Analysis 3 | Course code MUSI3023 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameMusic Education in Theory and Practice 3 | Course code MUSI3024 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameSong Writing & Performance 3 | Course code MUSI3030 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameComputer Music Composition 3 | Course code MUSI3033 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameSound Design for Games III | Course code MUSI3034 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameInternational Study Tour: Music | Course code MUSI3035 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameMusic Internship | Course code MUSI3900 | Units 6 | |
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Course name Elective 1 | Course code AUXX1011 | Units 6 | |
| Course name Elective 2 | Course code AUXX1012 | Units 6 | |
| Course name Elective 3 | Course code AUXX1013 | Units 6 | |
| Course name Elective 4 | Course code AUXX1014 | Units 6 | |
Notes
- Program electives - closed - Or Free Electives 
- Program electives - open - Or Free electives 
 
    
    
    
Career outcomes
Prepare for a wide range of careers with your advanced jazz performance skills and expertise. Want to travel the globe as a jazz performer? How about contribute to music journals, tracing the influence of jazz music through the ages? An Honours degree in Jazz Performance will get you there.
You could also pursue the following careers:
- Music critic or journalist
- Music historian or scholar
- Musician
- Performer.
Industry trends
Jazz music continues to be important in both performance and research. For jazz musicians, mastering their technical and improvisation skills is essential for building their craft and career. The rise of streaming and social media has also helped musicians build global fan bases and unlock more professional opportunities.
In academia, jazz is a culturally rich field with significant historical influence. It’s role in uniting diverse cultures and shaping modern musical genres makes it a vital area of research. Benefit from growing opportunities and continued relevance with your expertise in music and jazz performance.
Ready to apply?
Please note that a non-refundable application fee of AUD$150 applies for every application submitted to Adelaide University.
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.
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.
 
    
    
    
 
      
    
    
    
 
    
    
    
