Bachelor of Music and Bachelor of Business

The Bachelor of Music and Bachelor of Business at the University of Western Australia brings together specialised music training with the practical skills of business strategy and management. Across four years of full-time study in Perth, students undertake units spanning both music performance, composition or musicology, and business areas such as marketing, organisational behaviour, or economics. This double degree means studying across two faculties, balancing rehearsals and solo work with group projects and business case studies. Students complete dedicated units of study in each discipline, totalling the required number of credit points for a bachelor's double degree as structured on the Australian Qualifications Framework.

Many units are hands-on, such as ensemble participation or music technology workshops, alongside lectures and tutorials found in standard business subjects. Some students choose to focus on specific music interests while developing foundational business knowledge that can help them navigate the diverse opportunities of the cultural sector. In the final year, there’s usually a capstone project or major performance, along with higher-level business courses that tie theory to real-world settings. Work-integrated learning or professional placements are often encouraged in business streams and are particularly valued by prospective employers in creative industries.

Graduates develop technical musical ability, ensemble and solo performance skills, and learn to critically assess music in its historical and cultural context. At the same time, they cover core topics like financial decision-making, marketing, and entrepreneurship, gaining practical business skills applicable in arts administration, self-employment or managing creative projects. This course suits students who want to combine their passion for music with skills that offer additional career pathways, whether as performers, managers, or both. Entry requires evidence of English proficiency; international students can refer to the published IELTS and equivalent requirements. For full course details, check the official university page.

• Professional musician or composer in performance, media, or teaching
• Arts administrator or events manager for festivals, orchestras, or cultural organisations
• Music entrepreneur or manager of creative businesses
• Marketing or business analyst within entertainment, sports, and education sectors
• Project manager or business development officer in the creative industries
• Roles in not-for-profits, community arts, and government arts agencies

Graduates may seek employment in industries such as music performance, festivals, arts management, marketing, and creative start-ups across Australia. These fields often value cross-disciplinary skills. International students can apply for post-study work rights through the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) and are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight while undertaking their studies.