Bachelor of Music (Honours)/Bachelor of Education (Secondary)

The Bachelor of Music (Honours)/Bachelor of Education (Secondary) at the University of New South Wales is a double degree designed for those passionate about both music and education. Over 5.5 years of full-time study, students undertake a comprehensive curriculum that develops advanced musical expertise while also fulfilling the academic and practical requirements to become qualified secondary school teachers in Australia. The Music (Honours) component involves rigorous study in areas such as performance, composition, musicology, or music education, culminating in an honours research project during the final year. This equips graduates with in-depth knowledge and practical skills relevant to professional music environments.

The Education component includes units on teaching methodologies, curriculum studies, adolescent development, and classroom management, with a strong focus on pedagogical skills tailored to the Australian secondary context. Throughout the programme, students build up credit points by completing a series of core and elective units of study, each contributing to an integrated understanding of both disciplines. Australian universities generally require students to complete a set number of units per semester, ensuring steady academic progression.

A distinctive feature of this double degree is the opportunity for work-integrated learning. Education studies are complemented by professional placements in Australian secondary schools, where students gain firsthand experience in real classrooms under the supervision of experienced teachers. These placements are integral to preparing students for the workforce and may support professional accreditation requirements for teaching in Australia. After graduation, international students may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream, and all students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during their studies.

This programme suits individuals who have strong musical ability and a desire to inspire the next generation as educators. Graduates are well-prepared with performance, analytical, research, and teaching skills, making them versatile practitioners in both music and education sectors. Applicants must evidence English proficiency as required by UNSW and Australian regulations, with higher standards applying to teaching.

• Secondary School Music Teacher in government, independent, or Catholic schools
• Private Music Tutor
• Music Curriculum Developer
• Education Policy Adviser
• Arts Programme Coordinator
• Professional Musician or Ensemble Member
• Community Music Facilitator
• Roles within state education departments, performing arts organisations, and cultural institutions across Australia