VICTORIA UNIVERSITY OF WELLINGTON · NEW ZEALAND
Bachelor of Music (BMus)
Bachelor's · Taught in en
At a glance
36 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Bachelor's
Level
- 3 yearsDuration
- Specialise in Classical Performance, Jazz Performance, Composition, Digital Music, or Music StudiesMajors
- Study under internationally recognised musicians and academicsFaculty
- Develop skills in performance, composition, critical thinking, and communicationSkills Developed
- Option to combine with other degrees like BA, BCom, LLB, or BPopMConjoint Study
If you have a passion for music, whether it's listening, performing, composing, or singing, and want to deepen your understanding at New Zealand's leading music institution, the Bachelor of Music (BMus) is the ideal undergraduate degree for you. This three-year program is designed to prepare you for a career in the dynamic music industry or other professional fields. You will develop your musical abilities in performance or composition under the guidance of internationally recognized musicians and academics, encouraged to explore your creative potential and graduate as a skilled and confident musician. The degree also provides a strong academic foundation, equipping you with valuable skills in writing, critical thinking, teamwork, and communication applicable to various career paths.
Curriculum
The Bachelor of Music is a three-year program. Each year builds upon the previous, offering increasing specialization and choice.
- Year 1
- Core courses for chosen major
- Electives (if applicable)
- MUSC 160 (Introductory music theory, if needed)MUSC 160
- Year 2
- Further core courses and electives
- Specialised study in performance, production, or theory
- Year 3
- Advanced 300-level courses
- Electives from 200 or 300-level
- Final year performance recitals (for performance majors)
Careers
A Bachelor of Music degree equips you with a versatile skill set, preparing you for a wide range of careers in the music industry and beyond. The programme's focus on performance, composition, critical thinking, and communication opens doors to diverse professional opportunities.
- Musician
- Performer
- Composer
- Music Educator
- Sound Engineer
- Music Producer
- Arts Administrator
- Music Therapist
- Music Journalist
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the Bachelor of Music?
- You need to meet the University Entrance standard, with specific prerequisites potentially applying to certain majors. International students also need to demonstrate English proficiency, for example with an IELTS Academic score of 6.0 overall (no sub-score lower than 5.0) or TOEFL iBT of 80 or higher. Auditions are required for Classical and Jazz Performance majors.
- How long does the Bachelor of Music programme take to complete?
- The Bachelor of Music is a three-year undergraduate degree program.
- What are the tuition fees for international students?
- Tuition fees for international students vary by programme and are subject to annual review. Please refer to the University's official fee schedule for the most current information.
- What are the career prospects after graduating with a Bachelor of Music?
- This degree equips you for careers as a Musician, Performer, Composer, Music Educator, Sound Engineer, Music Producer, Arts Administrator, Music Therapist, or Music Journalist, among others in the music industry and beyond.
- Can I get financial assistance or scholarships?
- Victoria University of Wellington offers various undergraduate scholarships for school leavers and first-year students, such as the Tangiwai, Totoweka, and Kahotea scholarships. You should search the university's scholarship database for available options.
- What are the majors available within the Bachelor of Music?
- Students can specialise in Classical Performance, Jazz Performance, Composition, Digital Music, or Music Studies.
Entry requirements
NCEAUniversity Entrance standard required. Specific subject prerequisites may apply for certain majors.
International Baccalaureate (IB) DiplomaA minimum score is required, with specific subject considerations.
Other international qualificationsWill be assessed on a case-by-case basis.
IELTS Academic6.0 overall with no sub-score lower than 5.0
TOEFL iBT80 or higher
Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic50 or higher
Auditions are required for Classical Performance and Jazz Performance majors. Some background in music theory is recommended; MUSC 160 is available if needed. For specific requirements related to your chosen major and country of origin, please consult the university website.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition fees for international students vary by programme and are subject to annual review. Please refer to the University's official fee schedule for the most current information.
Tuition (home)Domestic tuition fees are set annually by the New Zealand Government. Please refer to the University's fee schedule for details.
LivingEstimated living costs for a student in Wellington are approximately NZ$20,000 - $25,000 per year, covering accommodation, food, transport, and personal expenses. This is an estimate and actual costs may vary.
Fees are subject to change. International students should check the latest tuition fees on the Victoria University of Wellington website. Domestic students should consult the relevant fee information.
How to apply
1. Check Entry RequirementsEnsure you meet the academic and English language proficiency requirements for the Bachelor of Music.
2. Prepare for Audition (if applicable)If applying for Classical Performance or Jazz Performance, prepare for and schedule your audition.
3. Gather Supporting DocumentsCollect academic transcripts, English test results, passport, and any other required documentation.
4. Complete the Application FormSubmit your application through the Victoria University of Wellington online portal or the relevant application system.
5. Apply for ScholarshipsExplore and apply for relevant scholarships through the university's scholarship database.
6. Await Offer of AdmissionOnce your application is reviewed, you will receive an offer of admission if successful.
7. Accept Offer and Pay DepositIf you accept the offer, you will likely need to pay a deposit to secure your place.
8. Arrange Visa and TravelBegin the process of obtaining your New Zealand student visa and making travel arrangements.
Scholarships
Tangiwai ScholarshipVariable
Totoweka ScholarshipVariable
Kahotea ScholarshipVariable
First-year ScholarshipsVariable
TeachNZ ScholarshipVariable
Alumni Appeal for Second Year Students ScholarshipVariable
Accreditation
The Wellington School of Business and Government (which houses related disciplines) holds the 'Triple Crown' of international business education accreditations (EQUIS, AMBA, AACSB).
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the Bachelor of Music?
+
You need to meet the University Entrance standard, with specific prerequisites potentially applying to certain majors. International students also need to demonstrate English proficiency, for example with an IELTS Academic score of 6.0 overall (no sub-score lower than 5.0) or TOEFL iBT of 80 or higher. Auditions are required for Classical and Jazz Performance majors.
How long does the Bachelor of Music programme take to complete?
+
The Bachelor of Music is a three-year undergraduate degree program.
What are the tuition fees for international students?
+
Tuition fees for international students vary by programme and are subject to annual review. Please refer to the University's official fee schedule for the most current information.
What are the career prospects after graduating with a Bachelor of Music?
+
This degree equips you for careers as a Musician, Performer, Composer, Music Educator, Sound Engineer, Music Producer, Arts Administrator, Music Therapist, or Music Journalist, among others in the music industry and beyond.
Can I get financial assistance or scholarships?
+
Victoria University of Wellington offers various undergraduate scholarships for school leavers and first-year students, such as the Tangiwai, Totoweka, and Kahotea scholarships. You should search the university's scholarship database for available options.
What are the majors available within the Bachelor of Music?
+
Students can specialise in Classical Performance, Jazz Performance, Composition, Digital Music, or Music Studies.