Master of Music (Performance Studies)

Postgraduate | 2026

Mode

On Campus

Start date

February, July

Campus

Adelaide City

Duration

2 year(s) full-time

Program code

MAMUS

Study as

Full-time

Indicative annual fees

$45,500

Non-tuition fees

Prerequisite

None

Assumed knowledge

None

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

115935H

Entry requirements

Admission criteria

To be eligible, an applicant must have achieved the following minimum entry requirement 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.

A completed Bachelor of Music or equivalent from a recognised higher education institution.

Additional requirements

Applicants must submit a high quality DVD of varying and contrasting work of 25 minutes duration to the Elder Conservatorium of Music. The DVD should include four or more music pieces of different styles or by different composers and a letter of verification from the music teacher or qualified person confirming that the performance is a true representation of the applicant's own work. Classical voice applicants must present works in four languages: English, French, German and Italian. The recording must clearly state the date on which the recording was made and whether it represents a live performance, commercial release or radio broadcast.

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 Master of Music (Performance Studies)?

Step up and take centre stage.

Dream of using your musical talent to make an impact on the world? Grace the stages of jazz venues in New York or conduct leading symphony orchestras.

Showcase your talents and share your musical and performance skills with the world. Become the most downloaded artist on Spotify or Apple and make your mark on the music scene. If you’re ready to dazzle the world with your artistry and impact, this degree sets the stage.

Advance your skills in performance and musical knowledge. Focus on intensive and skill-based technique. Reach the highest standards of professional performance. Develop your scholarly and critical thinking music abilities. Study traditional approaches to classical or jazz performance.

Be prepared for an exciting career to showcase your artistic growth and versatility. Lead, inspire and leave a lasting impression on the world with a Master of Music (Performance Studies).

Overview

Refine your artistic abilities and reach the highest standards of professional performance. Study an intensive, skill-based degree focusing on traditional approaches to classical or jazz performance.

Learn advanced performance techniques. Develop a deep understanding of music theory. Enhance your interpretative skills. Gain experience in stage presence and audience engagement, essential for any professional musician.

This degree offers extensive hands-on learning opportunities. Participate in one-on-one lessons with expert performers. Actively engage in ensembles and performance of major repertoire. Participate in masterclasses, open rehearsals and workshops and engage with our industry partners.

Be prepared for an exciting career as a solo performer, orchestral or opera conductor, orchestral musician, or music educator. Gain skills in advanced performance techniques, music interpretation, and stage presence.

Explore multiple musical styles and repertoire. Advance your technical mastery and contribute to the music profession in diverse ways with a Master of Music (Performance Studies) at Adelaide University.

Key features

Get personalised, one-on-one weekly lessons with expert performance staff.
Master advanced techniques in both solo and ensemble performances.
Explore the works of groundbreaking 20th-century and contemporary composers.
Benefit from our partnerships with leading industry partners.
Prepare and present engaging concert programs.
Our unique orchestral conducting program features a partnership with the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra.

What you'll learn

Elevate your musical abilities with a traditional and innovative degree. You’ll hone your expertise in classical or jazz performance and explore groundbreaking works by leading composers of the 20th century. Build the advanced skills needed to shine on the world stage through solo performances or ensembles.

You’ll also develop skills in audience engagement, music theory and stage presence, preparing you for a successful career in the music industry.

During your studies, you’ll focus on a chosen performance specialisation and choose from a range of electives. The flexibility to tailor your musical journey ensures you find the right path to match your career aspirations.

Study your instrument with a world class teacher from our faculty and play in our advanced level music ensembles. You’ll have the opportunity to showcase your talents through recitals and evaluations of workshops and seminars. Successfully passing the major recital in the first year unlocks the door to your second year of study.

What courses you'll study

Complete 96 units comprising:

72 units for all Core courses, and
24 units for Electives

Complete 72 units for ALL of the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name Negotiated Project IV	Course code MUSI5004	Units 12
Course name Minor Recital IV	Course code MUSI5005	Units 12
Course name Major Recital IV	Course code MUSI5006	Units 24
Course name Major Recital V	Course code MUSI6004	Units 24

Complete 24 units comprising:

24 units from Program electives

	Course code	Units
Course name Minor Recital V	Course code MUSI6003	Units 12
Course name Ensemble V	Course code MUSI6005	Units 12
Course name Research Project V	Course code MUSI6006	Units 24
Course name Professional Project V	Course code MUSI6007	Units 12

Career outcomes

Our degree will set you up to captivate audiences with every performance.

You could pursue a career as a soloist, orchestra member, music teacher, or director of music programs. You might compose music for a Hollywood film. Passionate about live music? Perhaps you’ll work as a music festival director, bringing local acts to the international stage.

Careers are diverse and could also include:

Conductor
Orchestral musician
Jazz musician
Music critic
Music journalist
Music educator
Singer.

Industry trends

The global music market is expected to grow significantly, with estimates suggesting revenue could double to about $131 billion by 2030 (Australian Recording Industry Association).

The rise in streaming services has also offered global exposure for musicians to reach a wider audience and build an international fanbase.

There are a variety of opportunities for graduates who are versatile, entrepreneurial and willing to pursue diverse career paths within the music industry. You'll prepare to excel at Adelaide University – collaborating with other artists and exploring diverse genres along the way.

How to apply

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.

Entry requirements

Gather your relevant documents

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

How to apply

Complete and send your application

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

Apply now

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.

Find an education agent in your country

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. 

View all FAQs

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: