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 Bachelor of Music 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 qualificationsInternational admissions by country
Country | Requirement | Score |
---|---|---|
Australia | ATAR | 70 |
Bangladesh | Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) | 4.80 |
Canada | Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) | 65% |
China | Gaokao | 60% |
Denmark | Studentereksamen (stx: Upper Secondary School Diploma) | 4 (Fair) |
France | French Baccalaureate | 11.0 |
Global | International Baccalaureate | 25 |
Hong Kong | Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE) | 16 |
India | CBSE and CISCE | 70 |
India | State Board Examinations | 80 |
Indonesia | SMA III | 75% |
Kenya | Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) | B+ |
Malaysia | Matrikulasi | 2.67 |
Malaysia | Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) | 2.67 |
Malaysia | United Entrance Certificate (UEC) | 23 |
Nepal | National Examinations Board (NEB) | 2.81 |
Norway | Upper Secondary School Certificate (Vitnemal fra den Videregaende Skole) / Vitnemal For Videregaende Opplaering | 3.2 |
Philippines | High School Diploma (Grade 12) (Academic Track) K12 | 86% |
Singapore | Singapore GCE Advanced Levels | 7 |
South Korea | College Scholastic Ability Test (CSAT) | 300 |
Sri Lanka | GCE A Levels | 8 |
Sweden | Upper Secondary School Leaving Certificate | 13.0 |
Taiwan | GSAT % | 60% |
Thailand | Matayom 6 | 3.20 |
UK / Global | GCE Advanced Levels | 7 |
USA / Global | Advanced Placement (AP) | 7 |
USA / Global | America College Test (ACT) | 21 |
USA / Global | Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) | 1100 |
Vietnam | Bằng Tốt Nghiệp Trung Học Phổ Thông (Vietnamese Year 12) | 7.8 |
Why Bachelor of Music?
Jazz has improvisation at its core; it requires you to make quick decisions in the moment and communicate with your band mates and audience.
To master jazz, you’ll need to expand your music theory and harmonic knowledge. You’ll need to become comfortable with every corner of your instrument and improve your ear. Develop these skills and more with a Bachelor of Music majoring in Jazz Performance. Get ready to find your own musical dialect and become a highly skilled, versatile and dynamic artist.

Overview
The Bachelor of Music will provide you with the intensive training needed to work in the music industry. Unlock your full potential, in a stimulating and challenging learning environment.
Your major in Jazz Performance will develop your technical and musical skills. Receive one-on-one tuition and masterclasses. Advance your knowledge on jazz history and developments. Learn from Australian and international jazz musicians and educators. Get practical experience across different musical settings including big bands, Latin bands, small jazz ensembles, guitar band, trad jazz ensemble and jazz choirs.
Instrument options for this degree include:
- Bass
- Drums
- Guitar
- Piano/keyboard
- Trumpet
- Trombone
- Saxophone
- Violin
- Voice.
You’ll graduate a knowledgeable and creative music professional with the skills to work in a range of roles from musician to music critic.
Key features
Study jazz theory, improvisation, arranging and history.
Receive one-on-one tuition and jazz masterclasses.
Access performances featuring big bands, jazz choirs, Latin and small jazz ensembles.
Get unrivalled ensemble experience with one of the most established music institutions in Australia, the Elder Conservatorium of Music.
Perform weekly and receive feedback from both staff and students.
What you'll learn
Your music degree will cover courses in professional development, jazz performance, jazz history, jazz musicianship and jazz arranging.
Hone your technical and musical skills and understand the roots of jazz and its ongoing developments. Learn professional performance standards, etiquette and management.
Throughout your studies, you’ll perform weekly, with opportunities across various musical settings including big bands, Latin bands, small jazz ensembles, guitar band, trad jazz ensemble and jazz choirs.
In your final year, you’ll perform your chosen repertoire, displaying accuracy and fluency, rhythmic control, creative expression and improvisation.
You’ll be set to embark on your dream career – whether that be as a musician, performer or music educator.
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 name
Life in Music
|
Course code
MUSI1036
|
Units
6
|
Complete 114 units for ALL of the following:
Course name | Course code | Units | |
---|---|---|---|
Course name
Jazz Performance 1A
|
Course code
MUSI1002
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Jazz Performance 1B
|
Course code
MUSI1007
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Jazz History
|
Course code
MUSI1017
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Jazz Musicianship 1A
|
Course code
MUSI1022
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Jazz Musicianship 1B
|
Course code
MUSI1024
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Music Professional Development 1A
|
Course code
MUSI1029
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Music Professional Development 1B
|
Course code
MUSI1031
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Jazz Performance 2A
|
Course code
MUSI2002
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Jazz Performance 2B
|
Course code
MUSI2006
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Jazz Musicianship 2A
|
Course code
MUSI2021
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Jazz Musicianship 2B
|
Course code
MUSI2023
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Music Professional Development 2A
|
Course code
MUSI2027
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Music Professional Development 2B
|
Course code
MUSI2029
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Jazz Performance 3A
|
Course code
MUSI3002
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Jazz Performance 3B
|
Course code
MUSI3007
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Jazz Arranging
|
Course code
MUSI3013
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Jazz Musicianship 3
|
Course code
MUSI3025
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Music Professional Development 3A
|
Course code
MUSI3029
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Music Professional Development 3B
|
Course code
MUSI3031
|
Units
6
|
Complete 24 to 42 units comprising:
- 24 to 42 units for Program electives
Course name | Course code | Units |
---|
Complete 24 to 42 units comprising:
- 24 to 42 units from Program electives - closed
- 24 to 42 units for all Program electives - open, and
- 24 to 42 units from Program selectives, and
- 24 units from Year 2 selectives
- 24 units from Year 3 selectives
Course name | Course code | Units | |
---|---|---|---|
Course name
Music Technology Foundations
|
Course code
MUSI1000
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Music & Sound Fundamentals 1A
|
Course code
MUSI1003
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Music & Sound Fundamentals 1B
|
Course code
MUSI1008
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Musics of the World I
|
Course code
MUSI1013
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Orchestration 1
|
Course code
MUSI1019
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Foundations of Music Education 1A
|
Course code
MUSI1021
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Foundations of Music Education 1B
|
Course code
MUSI1023
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Song Writing & Performance 1A
|
Course code
MUSI1030
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Song Writing & Performance 1B
|
Course code
MUSI1032
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Sound Engineering
|
Course code
MUSI1033
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Sonic Arts
|
Course code
MUSI1034
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
From Elvis to YouTube II
|
Course code
MUSI2001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Music, Media & Contemporary Society II
|
Course code
MUSI2009
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Musics of the World II
|
Course code
MUSI2011
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Foundations of Conducting
|
Course code
MUSI2015
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Orchestration 2
|
Course code
MUSI2017
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Music Analysis 2
|
Course code
MUSI2019
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Music Education in Theory and Practice 2A
|
Course code
MUSI2020
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Music Education in Theory and Practice 2B
|
Course code
MUSI2022
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Song Writing & Performance 2A
|
Course code
MUSI2028
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Song Writing & Performance 2B
|
Course code
MUSI2030
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Sonic Arts in Practice 2
|
Course code
MUSI2031
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Computer Music Composition 2
|
Course code
MUSI2032
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Sound Engineering Live
|
Course code
MUSI2033
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Sound Design for Film II
|
Course code
MUSI2034
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Methods in Music Research
|
Course code
MUSI3001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Music Research 3
|
Course code
MUSI3006
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Jazz Arranging
|
Course code
MUSI3013
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Music, Health and Wellbeing
|
Course code
MUSI3014
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Foundations of Conducting
|
Course code
MUSI3015
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Music, Media & Contemporary Society III
|
Course code
MUSI3016
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Conducting: Choral & Instrumental Techniques
|
Course code
MUSI3017
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Orchestration 3
|
Course code
MUSI3020
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Music Analysis 3
|
Course code
MUSI3023
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Music Education in Theory and Practice 3
|
Course code
MUSI3024
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Song Writing & Performance 3
|
Course code
MUSI3030
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
International Study Tour: Music
|
Course code
MUSI3035
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Music 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
|
Course name | Course code | Units | |
---|---|---|---|
Course name
Circuit Bending and Hardware Hacking
|
Course code
MUSI2035
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Methods in Music Research
|
Course code
MUSI3001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Advanced Sound Engineering 3
|
Course code
MUSI3003
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Music, Health and Wellbeing
|
Course code
MUSI3014
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Music, Media & Contemporary Society III
|
Course code
MUSI3016
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Interaction Design and the Sonic Arts 3
|
Course code
MUSI3018
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
The Sampled Source
|
Course code
MUSI3019
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Sonic Arts in Practice 3
|
Course code
MUSI3032
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Computer Music Composition 3
|
Course code
MUSI3033
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Sound Design for Games III
|
Course code
MUSI3034
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Music Technology Foundations
|
Course code
MUSI1000
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
From Elvis to YouTube I
|
Course code
MUSI1011
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Musics of the World I
|
Course code
MUSI1013
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Sound & Media
|
Course code
MUSI1018
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Sonic Arts in Practice 1
|
Course code
MUSI1035
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
From Elvis to YouTube II
|
Course code
MUSI2001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Music, Media & Contemporary Society II
|
Course code
MUSI2009
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Musics of the World II
|
Course code
MUSI2011
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Sonic Arts in Practice 2
|
Course code
MUSI2031
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Sound Design for Film II
|
Course code
MUSI2034
|
Units
6
|
Course name | Course code | Units | |
---|---|---|---|
Course name
Composition 1A
|
Course code
MUSI1001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Composition 1B
|
Course code
MUSI1006
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Orchestration 1
|
Course code
MUSI1019
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Song Writing & Performance 1A
|
Course code
MUSI1030
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Song Writing & Performance 1B
|
Course code
MUSI1032
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Sound Engineering
|
Course code
MUSI1033
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Sonic Arts
|
Course code
MUSI1034
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Composition 2A
|
Course code
MUSI2000
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Composition 2B
|
Course code
MUSI2005
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Orchestration 2
|
Course code
MUSI2017
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Contemporary Music in Practice 2
|
Course code
MUSI2018
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Music Analysis 2
|
Course code
MUSI2019
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Song Writing & Performance 2A
|
Course code
MUSI2028
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Song Writing & Performance 2B
|
Course code
MUSI2030
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Sonic Arts in Practice 2
|
Course code
MUSI2031
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Computer Music Composition 2
|
Course code
MUSI2032
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Sound Engineering Live
|
Course code
MUSI2033
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Sound Design for Film II
|
Course code
MUSI2034
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Circuit Bending and Hardware Hacking
|
Course code
MUSI2035
|
Units
6
|
Course name | Course code | Units | |
---|---|---|---|
Course name
Composition 3A
|
Course code
MUSI3000
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Advanced Sound Engineering 3
|
Course code
MUSI3003
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Composition 3B
|
Course code
MUSI3005
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Interaction Design and the Sonic Arts 3
|
Course code
MUSI3018
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
The Sampled Source
|
Course code
MUSI3019
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Orchestration 3
|
Course code
MUSI3020
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Music Analysis 3
|
Course code
MUSI3023
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Song Writing & Performance 3
|
Course code
MUSI3030
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Computer Music Composition 3
|
Course code
MUSI3033
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Sound Design for Games III
|
Course code
MUSI3034
|
Units
6
|

Career outcomes
Jazz music is an improvisational genre known for its syncopated rhythms and diverse musical influences. As an expert in jazz performance, you could pursue a diverse set of careers. Maybe you’ll open your own jazz club. Perhaps you’ll play in bands, ensembles, or perform as a solo artist.
You could also pursue the following careers:
- Creative performer
- Composer
- Band leader
- Music Educator.
Industry trends
Today, learning jazz has become critical for any musician aiming to hone their improvisation and technical skills. Jazz music continues to be a highly respected genre, with its rhythms, harmonies and improvisation inspiring several of today’s most popular genres including hip-hop, pop, R&B and rock. Learning jazz will help you become a better musician, ready to forge your own style.
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.
