Music - XM0029

Choose another major or minor

About music

There are different ways to include music in your studies. You can audition to enrol in the Bachelor of Music, or if you’re studying another course, such as a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science, you can still include non-practical music units as a major, minor or elective. There’s also an opportunity to join a range of small and large ensembles, some of which require an audition.

The major or minor in music within the Bachelor of Arts is available to students who have no previous music experience.

Why choose music?

Our school prides itself on the number of opportunities we provide our students, including performances on and off campus, with visiting artists and staff. You’ll have access to recording facilities as well as one of Australia’s leading music archives featuring instruments from around the world.

Our music staff are renowned performers in classical, jazz, pop, composition and music technology, and critical performance studies. They are also music creators and innovators, writers and researchers. You will see our staff soloing and leading ensembles worldwide, and experience their recordings and publications.

What will you study?

A major or minor in music allows you to develop the necessary critical, analytical and interpretive skills to investigate various areas of music. These may include:

  • Improvisation
  • Popular and world music
  • Music across time and place
  • Song writing
  • Practices related to the music industry
  • Western art music
  • Ensemble performance
  • Music technology.

Career opportunities

Music is key to a rich cultural life and can lead to many different careers, including:

  • Music reviewing
  • Archivist
  • Journalism
  • Teaching
  • Arts administration
  • Marketing
  • Media and communications.

Global study

With Monash’s impressive international links, you’ll have the opportunity to venture into new and challenging contexts to enhance your learning.

Short term programs:

  • Music overseas study program – Italy.

Global Immersion Guarantee:

As a Bachelor of Arts student, you’ll have access to the Monash Global Immersion Guarantee – an opportunity to spend two weeks studying in one of a variety of locations, with airfares and accommodation covered as part of your degree.

Major Focus by location
Focus Locations
Major Note Clayton
Minor Note Clayton

Career options

  • Music reviewing
  • Archivist
  • Journalism
  • Teaching
  • Arts administration
  • Marketing
  • Media and communications

Overseas opportunities

As a Monash student, you have the option of making your course an international one. The School of Music offers two Music units undertaken at overseas locations. Both units are three-week intensive practical units that explore group and solo performance, as well as the art of music practice.

"Monash is the place to be if you want to study music – if you’re just coming out of high school and you want to take that next step in your musical journey."

- James Zhong,
Bachelor of Music / Bachelor of Laws