Victoria University
3 years full-time or longer for part-time
Discover your sound and shape the future with Victoria University's Bachelor of Applied Music. This innovative 3-year degree blends creativity with real-world application, preparing you for diverse careers in music teaching, production, performance, and community projects while exploring music's power for social change.
Applicants must have completed secondary school (VCE or equivalent) with a study score of at least 25 in English (EAL) or 20 in any other English. No minimum ATAR is required. You must have at least two years' experience playing a musical instrument and/or singing prior to commencing. Applicants should provide a one-page written statement identifying your instrument/voice, musical styles, years of experience, and level of training, along with a short performance video (one song, 3-5 minutes). Mature-age applicants (5+ years relevant work/life experience) may also apply. There is no audition requirement.
The course comprises 288 credit points across core and minor studies. Year 1 focuses on foundational music knowledge including Academic Discourse in Music, Music Inquiry, Creativity and Communication, and the history of popular music from blues through hip-hop. Year 2 introduces technology and teaching, covering Technology of Music and Audio, Learning and Teaching Music 1, Practical Ear Training, Music and Wellbeing, and Home Studio Music Production. Year 3 advances teaching skills, music theory, and explores Musical Futures with streaming and AI in music, culminating in two graduating projects. Students also complete 48 credit points of minor studies from options including Writing, Digital Media, Popular Music Studies, The Musical Mind, Visual Art, or Aboriginal Yulendj and Community.
Victoria University is ranked in the top 3% of universities worldwide and is renowned for its award-winning VU Block Model, which delivers workshop-style learning where students complete one subject at a time over four weeks. VU is ranked #1 for skills development and offers 4000+ industry connections. Located in Melbourne, a city with more live-music venues per capita than any other major city, students benefit from an exceptional music community and performance opportunities. The university provides comprehensive support through The Learning Hub with 24/7 academic assistance.
Graduates can pursue diverse careers as professional performers, songwriters, music producers, music teachers, or community arts workers. The degree also prepares you for further postgraduate study in music education, music therapy, youth work, social work, and criminal justice. With additional study through VU's Master of Teaching program, you can become a secondary-school music teacher. The course emphasizes music's role in supporting emotional, cultural, and social wellbeing, opening pathways to impact communities locally and globally.
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