Diploma of Music

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Duration
1 year full-time, 2 years part-time
Location
Mackay
Next start term
Term 1, 2027
Study mode
On Campus
Course code
CC41
CRICOS
0100158
First-year fee
A$36,000 (2026 Indicative)
OverviewStructure & AvailabilityRequirementsFees & ScholarshipsHow to Apply
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Music degree students in a studio practicing as a band

Overview

Designed to develop your musical knowledge and skills that will prepare you for a career in music, the Diploma of Music allows you to focus on a broad range of music styles including western art music, jazz or contemporary music. You'll have the opportunity to develop your solo music performance skills and receive specialist training in vocal or instrumental performance, composition or singer/songwriting from highly specialised music staff with the option to articulate into the second year of the Bachelor of Music.

This exciting course will expose you to a variety of learning experiences including performance tuition to develop your solo performance skills and academic study in the interpretation and understanding of music. This means that you will be supported throughout your study and undertake one-on-one instrumental tuition with highly qualified regional conservatorium staff on campus at the Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music (CQCM) at CQU Mackay.

During your course, you will learn foundational aspects of the language of music from Western art-music tradition to contemporary popular music styles and examine the role of prominent performers, composers, lyricists, and music producers in the development of these styles. In your first term, you will engage in practical music studies focusing on foundational-level repertoire and technical work in your chosen instrument, voice or composition.  In your second term, you will build on your knowledge and technical skills further through a combination of theoretical and technical learning activities.

To gain entry into this course, you will be required to audition. It is recommended that students have achieved at least an intermediate level of performance skills on their particular instrument or voice, or intermediate compositional skill before auditioning for entry to this course.

Study Experience

Discover more about your Diploma of Music, offering flexible study options and seamless pathways to showcase your talent. Click 'Explore Study Experience' for more information.

  • Seamless Pathways
  • Real-world Learning Facilities
  • Industry Relevant
  • Authentic Learning Experiences
  • Research Pathways
  • Student Support

Career Opportunities

Completion of the Diploma of Music will prepare you to pursue employment opportunities in roles such as a:

  • professional musician
  • studio teacher.

You may also pursue a music-related role in arts administration, communication or creative industries.

Structure & Availability

The course structure and available locations can change depending on when you want to study. 

You can choose the intake that best suits you in the drop-down menu below. Visit the Academic Calendars webpage for key dates relevant to your chosen intake.

Available Locations

Your Course

You must complete eight units (48 credits):

  1. 1
    The core structure (8 units)

Unit Details

The units you'll study are listed below. Click on a unit to learn more.

Additional Information

If you have already completed a study relevant to the course you have enrolled in, you may be eligible for credit transfer.

Requirements

To Be Eligible

For your application to be considered, you must meet the following entry requirements.

During Your Study

While not needed to apply, you'll need to meet the following requirements throughout your studies. 

Fees & Scholarships

Course Fees

This is an approximate cost of enrolling in this course, shown in Australian dollars (A$), for one academic year and is based on a full-time study load (8 units over 2 terms). 

Your actual fees may vary, depending on the units that you select to study and your study load. Fees are reviewed each year and are subject to change.

International Course Fees

International students from selected regions may be eligible for scholarships. 

Browse our scholarships.

In addition to your course fees, you must have sufficient funds to cover other study and living expenses. These may include visa application fees, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), textbooks and learning materials, checks and certifications, living expenses and more.

How to Apply

You can apply through an agent for expert guidance, or directly via iStart, our online application system for international students if you’re in Australia.

Apply

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