Graduate Diploma in Music Performance

The Graduate Diploma in Music Performance at Adelaide University is a one-year qualification for musicians who already hold a degree and want to sharpen their performance skills at a higher level. It suits performers who want focused time with teachers and mentors, regular opportunities to play, and a recognised Australian qualification at the end of it. Entry is normally based on a completed bachelor's degree in music or a related area, plus an audition or portfolio that shows your standard as a performer.

How the course is structured

As a graduate diploma, this course sits at AQF level 8, above a bachelor degree, below a master's. It is usually made up of units of study, each worth a set number of credit points, taught across semesters. You would normally take a mix of core performance units, ensemble or chamber work, and electives that let you specialise in your instrument or voice. Many students finish with a recital or major performance project that acts as the capstone of the year. Exact unit lists, credit point values and assessment modes are set by the university, so check the official course page before you apply.

What you actually do

Most of your week is spent in individual lessons, rehearsals, masterclasses and performance workshops. You perform in front of audiences, receive feedback from staff and visiting artists, and build a repertoire that reflects your strengths. Alongside performance, you study musicianship, interpretation and stagecraft, and you may take units in areas such as music technology, pedagogy or arts management depending on what the university offers that year. Assessment typically combines recitals, ensemble performances, written work and continuous evaluation by your teachers.

Skills you gain

You leave with stronger technical control, better interpretive judgement, and the confidence to perform under pressure. You also develop the habits professional musicians rely on: planning practice, preparing programmes, working with other players, and presenting yourself to audiences and employers. For international students, there is another practical layer. While studying in Australia you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term, and after graduating you may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream, which lets you stay and work in Australia for a period. Confirm your eligibility with the Department of Home Affairs.

Who it suits

This course is for graduates who want a year of serious performance study without committing to a full master's, and for working musicians who need a formal Australian qualification to support visa, teaching or employment plans. If your goal is to perform professionally, teach privately, or move into further postgraduate study, a graduate diploma gives you a concentrated year to build your portfolio and your networks. Adelaide has a busy music scene, and the university's connections to local ensembles and venues can open doors while you study. Tuition is published on the CRICOS register under course code 115874E. English requirements for international applicants are set by the university and by the Department of Home Affairs for the visa, check the official page for current details.

• Professional performer, solo, chamber or orchestral work with Australian ensembles, opera companies and contemporary music groups
• Session musician, recording studios, film and television scoring, advertising and digital media production
• Private music teacher, one-on-one tuition, studio teaching and instrument-specific instruction
• School music teacher, with additional teaching qualifications where required by the state
• Arts administrator, programming, artist liaison and event coordination for festivals, venues and arts organisations
• Music director or conductor, community ensembles, musical theatre, church music and youth orchestras
• Accompanist or repetiteur, working with singers, dancers and instrumentalists in rehearsal and performance
• Community music facilitator, arts and health programmes, schools outreach and local government initiatives