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About the course
This one-year honours program treats musical practice as a research-led process. Students complete 48 units focused on advanced research training and a major honours project. The centrepiece is an original research output, undertaken as a substantial written thesis or as a creative project (such as performance, composition, recording or other practice) accompanied by a shorter critical document. Study is delivered in person within ANU’s arts and social sciences portfolio.
What you might learn
You will develop advanced capabilities in music research and scholarly practice, including research methods and theories, critical analysis, and project design. The program builds independence in inquiry and creative or written communication through a major thesis or practice-led research project. Students learn to frame research questions, engage with relevant literature and methodologies, and present outcomes to academic standards suitable for further study or professional creative practice.
Career outcome
Graduates are prepared for pathways that value advanced research and high-level musical expertise. Depending on the honours project focus, outcomes may include progression to postgraduate research, roles in music research and academia, and professional practice in composition, performance, recording, or creative production. The program also supports careers in arts organisations, cultural and creative industries, and related roles requiring strong analytical, project management and communication skills.
Entry requirements
Applicants must meet ANU program-specific academic/non-academic and English language requirements. Entry is competitive and honours admission depends on supervisory capacity and delegated approval. A recent AQF Level 7 Bachelor of Music (ANU or equivalent, completed within the last two years) is required, with a weighted average mark equivalent to 70% calculated from the best 36 units in the cognate discipline (excluding 1000-level courses), plus any specialisation requirements.
Living Costs in Canberra**
Restaurant (Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant) A$ 17 - 23 |
Rent per Month (1 bedroom in City Centre) A$ 1,584 - 2,095 |
Rent per Month (1 bedroom Outside of Centre) A$ 1,253 - 1,657 |
Transportation (Daily) A$ 4 - 10 |
Utilities per Month (Electricity, Mobile & Internet) A$ 264 - 348 |
Average Salary***
