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ARB403 | CRICOS: 102457G | Provider: 00212K

Bachelor of Creative Industries (Contemporary Music Practice)

In partnership with the University of Canberra

Turn your love of music into a career with this hands-on degree and develop a broad range of coherent, specialised skills and knowledge that will make you stand out in this competitive, global industry.

Apply now
STUDY LOCATIONS Greater Brisbane
WAYS TO STUDY On campus
NEXT INTAKE Start date: 03 Feb 2025 Duration: 3 years View all intakes
ANNUAL INDICATIVE COST
Domestic

This is an indicative fee for one year of full-time study for domestic students. Fees will vary based on selected units and study load.

$8,020

Course overview

Turn your love of music into a career and develop a broad range of coherent, specialised skills and knowledge that will make you stand out in this competitive, global industry. Delivered in partnership with the University of Canberra, this degree will give you a thorough grounding in 21st century contemporary music practice.

The creative arts industry plays an important role in Australia's economy. According to the Australian Government's MySkills service, it contributes over $10 billion to the our economy and employs nearly 100,000 people. With the emergence of new technologies and wide range of job prospects available it's an exciting industry to be a part of.

In this course you'll develop a broad range of coherent skills and knowledge across a variety of areas including music composition, performance, technology and theory. You'll also have the opportunity to collaborate with film makers, musicians, visual artists, actors, and other teams across the broad creative industries spectrum, working on real projects to combine university thinking with hands-on learning.

With a focus on nurturing and developing a holistic, creative and entrepreneurial approach to music making, you'll be prepared with the best chance of success in the music industry.

What can I do?

  • Sound Engineer
  • Composer
  • Music Producer
  • Musician
  • Music Teacher

Course outcome:

ARB403 Bachelor of Creative Industries (Contemporary Music Practice)

UC Brisbane Creative Industries Degrees

Gain practical experience and develop key employability skills including communication, teamwork, and critical, creative and strategic thinking. Learn from industry professionals whilst studying in Brisbane, graduate with real-world experience, ready to impress employers and launch your creative career.

Specialised training facilities

Students have access to four soundproofed rehearsal rooms with vocal PA and backline gear. Our live performance space, the Gig Studio, features a full line array sound system and professional lighting rig. Our main studio is a world-class recording facility. It centres around an SSL Duality mixing desk, offering the best in analogue and digital recording.

What you will study

If you have completed one of the below Diplomas you will gain up to a year's credit towards this qualification:

This is a typical study pattern and may differ depending on credit received. Please note not all units are offered in each teaching period.

The below study plan is for new students.

  • UNIT CODE
  • UNIT NAME

Year 1 Semester 1

  • Year 1 Semester 1

  • UNIT CODE
  • 11601
    Songwriting and Production 1 - Level 2
    UNIT CODE :
    11601
    Unit description :
    The unit focuses on the analytical study and practical implementation of historically significant, popular music genres, key artists and their songs. It promotes an impartial approach to musical style, focusing instead on the analysis of the musical elements that define them, in particular, structure, harmony and melody. It aims to develop an understanding of the contextual nature of contemporary songwriting and composition by identifying and analysing key historical, cultural and technological reference points that have defined popular music. Finally, the unit incorporates rudimentary and some intermediate level applications in music production and the use of specialist music technologies.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Songwriting and Production 1 - Level 2
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • 11591
    Professional Orientation (Creative Industries and digital Design) - Level 1
    UNIT CODE :
    11591
    Unit description :
    This unit introduces students to the diverse opportunities in the world of creative and digital design industries. Aspects that will be considered include: contemporary demands of the industry including social responsibility, ethical and sustainability issues. Through engagement with industry and community, students will gain an understanding of global discipline knowledge, skills and abilities required to perform as responsible, capable creative industry and digital design professionals. Students will start their career awareness and planning through approaches such as five year plans and ePortfolios.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Professional Orientation (Creative Industries and digital Design) - Level 1
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • 11645
    Commercial Music Performance - Level 1
    UNIT CODE :
    11645
    Unit description :
    Successful contemporary musicianship requires instrumental proficiency and an integrated approach to the craft and nature of performance. This requires a critical understanding of performance genres and a practical understanding of performance techniques in a range of differing commercial contexts. This unit promotes an impartial approach to performance, focusing on basic musicianship, stagecraft, verbal and non-verbal communication, collaboration, planning, rehearsal, performance and self-reflection. It aims to develop an understanding of the contextual nature of performance and identify key historical and cultural reference points that define performance practice. It also promotes acoustic and semi-acoustic performance in smaller to medium-sized venues and the development of basic skills using compact P.A. systems.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Commercial Music Performance - Level 1
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • OEU
    Open Elective Unit
    UNIT CODE :
    OEU
    Unit description :
  • UNIT NAME
  • Open Elective Unit
    (Credit points: 3)

Year 1 Semester 2

  • Year 1 Semester 2

  • UNIT CODE
  • 11595
    The Big Picture - Level 2
    UNIT CODE :
    11595
    Unit description :
    This project-based unit provides students with a unique opportunity, working in small cross-disciplinary teams, to explore courageous or experimental projects, without the pressure of having to produce something that is objectively 'successful'. Assessment in this unit will focus not upon the quality or otherwise of the group-driven creative outputs, but rather upon the reflective, individual exegetical and reflective components that accompany them.
  • UNIT NAME
  • The Big Picture - Level 2
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • 11646
    Music Performance & Originality - Level 1
    UNIT CODE :
    11646
    Unit description :
    This unit prepares the student for work as a unique, yet commercially successful performer. It focuses on the analytical study of mass appeal and experimentation within established musical stylistic conventions, collaborating on original song performance to create an original audience experience. It expands the student's understanding of verbal and non-verbal communication, image and imagery, group expression, stagecraft and the use of space and choreography. The unit focuses on the practical implementation of musical and non-musical elements designed to influence an audience and develop contemporary stagecraft, musicianship and stage technology skills and knowledge.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Music Performance & Originality - Level 1
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • 11602
    Songwriting and Stylistic Production - Level 2
    UNIT CODE :
    11602
    Unit description :
    This unit focuses on the analytical study and practical implementation of contemporary songwriting and music production techniques, with students analysing and then emulating the songwriting and production techniques of significant contemporary artists. The unit especially aims to develop an understanding of the contextual nature of contemporary music production identifying key historical, cultural and technological reference points that define contemporary music and production. The unit incorporates intermediate to advanced level music production techniques and the use of specialist music technologies, favouring an independent approach to recording and releasing music.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Songwriting and Stylistic Production - Level 2
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • OEU
    Open Elective Unit
    UNIT CODE :
    OEU
    Unit description :
  • UNIT NAME
  • Open Elective Unit
    (Credit points: 3)

Year 2 Semester 1

  • Year 2 Semester 1

  • UNIT CODE
  • 11596
    Creativity and Culture: Truth and Ideation - Level 2
    UNIT CODE :
    11596
    Unit description :
    This unit challenges the notions of truth and knowledge. It will explore the idea of cultural relativity and challenge our own way of thinking. Knowledge generation will be examined by exploring fictional and historical worlds that establish their own truths and ideations.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Creativity and Culture: Truth and Ideation - Level 2
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • 11593
    Creative Practice 1 - Level 1
    UNIT CODE :
    11593
    Unit description :
    Creative Project 1 focuses on the independent conceptualisation, planning and realisation of a student-generated work in the creative field. The unit aims to introduce the student to working independently as a freelance creative, applying all principles and skills gained from other core units.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Creative Practice 1 - Level 1
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • 11647
    Music for Media - Level 3
    UNIT CODE :
    11647
    Unit description :
    This unit explores the composition of music for commercial media such as radio, television, video games and advertising. It also introduces students to synchronisation to picture and film composition. Students learn to work for simulated clients composing music to commercial briefs. whilst protecting themselves from unscrupulous industry practices through their demonstrated understanding of composer contracts, composer fees, copyright knowledge and royalty collection processes. The unit also includes contextual theoretical skills and historical knowledge.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Music for Media - Level 3
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • OEU
    Open Elective Unit
    UNIT CODE :
    OEU
    Unit description :
  • UNIT NAME
  • Open Elective Unit
    (Credit points: 3)

Year 2 Semester 2

  • Year 2 Semester 2

  • UNIT CODE
  • 11017
    Professional Practice 1: Work Integrated Learning - Level 2
    UNIT CODE :
    11017
    Unit description :
    In this unit students will work with academics, peers and industry partners to apply their learning in real-world contexts, develop employability skills and strengthen the disciplinary skills and knowledge needed to contribute to and excel in their professions. Authentic learning experiences will include simulated workplace experiences, industry collaborations, competitions, internships, exhibitions or studio work.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Professional Practice 1: Work Integrated Learning - Level 2
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • 10316
    Synthesis and Sampling - Level 2
    UNIT CODE :
    10316
    Unit description :
    This unit introduces students to the creative potential of audio synthesis and sampling - the core sound generation methods of contemporary music composition. It promotes a more experimental approach than previous composition units, with special focus on EDM (Electronic Dance Music) and its associated forms and production techniques. Students are allowed a greater degree of freedom to break away from musical conventions and explore new approaches to composing, again with a focus on using technology. Students gain invaluable insight into the acoustic properties of sound and fundamental processes of sound design. Through this original, experimental and innovative approach to composition, legal and ethical aspects of sampling are also explored.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Synthesis and Sampling - Level 2
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • OEU
    Open Elective Unit
    UNIT CODE :
    OEU
    Unit description :
  • UNIT NAME
  • Open Elective Unit
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • OEU
    Open Elective Unit
    UNIT CODE :
    OEU
    Unit description :
  • UNIT NAME
  • Open Elective Unit
    (Credit points: 3)

Year 3 Semester 1

  • Year 3 Semester 1

  • UNIT CODE
  • 11018
    Professional Practice 2: Work Integrated Learning - Level 3
    UNIT CODE :
    11018
    Unit description :
    In this unit students will further develop their abilities as agile professionals with the transferable employability skills and critical and creative abilities to work across industries and sectors and craft diverse employment paths. They will integrate disciplinary knowledge with the professional skills required in their industry through authentic simulated or real workplace experiences, international exchanges or industry collaborations or projects.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Professional Practice 2: Work Integrated Learning - Level 3
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • 10318
    Technology on Stage - Level 2
    UNIT CODE :
    10318
    Unit description :
    The integration of music technology into performance dominates the live music industry. From street-corner buskers with loop pedals accompanying their solo performances, to stadium-filling tours requiring networks of complex equipment, understanding music technology is essential for all modern performing musicians. This unit introduces students to the integration of digital technologies into live performance, while developing creative approaches to performance practice, stylistic presentation and visual impact. It further expands stagecraft skills by introducing the use of live backing tracks, samplers, software, MIDI, digital video and lighting to enhance music and image.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Technology on Stage - Level 2
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • OEU
    Open Elective Unit
    UNIT CODE :
    OEU
    Unit description :
  • UNIT NAME
  • Open Elective Unit
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • OEU
    Open Elective Unit
    UNIT CODE :
    OEU
    Unit description :
  • UNIT NAME
  • Open Elective Unit
    (Credit points: 3)

Year 3 Semester 2

  • Year 3 Semester 2

  • UNIT CODE
  • 11592
    Professional Evidence (Creative Industries and Digital Design) - Level 3
    UNIT CODE :
    11592
    Unit description :
    This unit prepares students for professional work in the cultural sector and finalises and reviews your ePortfolio. Through practical activities, such as preparing a grant application, developing a team-based project proposal, and researching a cultural organisation, students learn to relate their discipline specific knowledge to a range of professional contexts. The unit will emphasise the significance of multiculturalism, cultural consumption and globalisation as key influences shaping cultural work in the twenty first century.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Professional Evidence (Creative Industries and Digital Design) - Level 3
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • 11648
    Music for Screen - Level 3
    UNIT CODE :
    11648
    Unit description :
    This unit introduces the student to orchestral instrumentation and orchestral scoring conventions used in screen composition. It focuses on the analytical study and practical implementation of key exponents and standard conventions in orchestration for differing film genres, and aims to promote an experimental approach within the confines of a commercial brief and strict stylistic guidelines. The student uses industry standard technologies to create realistic-sounding orchestral "mockups" and accurate and playable scores, while exploring historical compositional practices which complement contemporary film genres.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Music for Screen - Level 3
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • 11594
    Creative Practice 2 - Level 2
    UNIT CODE :
    11594
    Unit description :
    This unit focuses on the independent conceptualisation, planning and realisation of a student-generated major work in their creative field. The unit emphasises consultation/collaboration as part of the creative process, skill refinement and the consideration of publication. This unit is based on a model of academic supervision and is intended to pave the way towards independent modes of learning crucial in the industry and at postgraduate levels of study.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Creative Practice 2 - Level 2
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • OEU
    Open Elective Unit
    UNIT CODE :
    OEU
    Unit description :
  • UNIT NAME
  • Open Elective Unit
    (Credit points: 3)
Ways to study
  • You'll learn face to face with a teacher in a classroom or simulated workplace environment. You may access learning materials through our online learning management system Connect. Learn more

  • demo View comparison chart
CAMPUS STUDY MODE START DATE DURATION WORKLOAD ANNUAL INDICATIVE COST
South Bank
On Campus
03 Feb 2025
3 years
Full time up to 5 days per week
  • Domestic: $8,020

    This is an indicative fee for one year of full-time study for domestic students. Fees will vary based on selected units and study load.

demo

South Bank

On Campus

  • Online Time

    How much of the course will be delivered online. 

    0%
  • On Campus Time
    100%
START DATE

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

03 Feb 2025
DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

3 years
Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Full time up to 5 days per week
ANNUAL INDICATIVE COST
  • Domestic: $8,020

    This is an indicative fee for one year of full-time study for domestic students. Fees will vary based on selected units and study load.

Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled
VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No
ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

On-Campus
TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom
South Bank
On Campus
28 Jul 2025
3 years
Full time up to 5 days per week
  • Domestic: $8,020

    This is an indicative fee for one year of full-time study for domestic students. Fees will vary based on selected units and study load.

demo

South Bank

On Campus

  • Online Time

    How much of the course will be delivered online. 

    0%
  • On Campus Time
    100%
START DATE

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

28 Jul 2025
DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

3 years
Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Full time up to 5 days per week
ANNUAL INDICATIVE COST
  • Domestic: $8,020

    This is an indicative fee for one year of full-time study for domestic students. Fees will vary based on selected units and study load.

Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled
VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No
ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

On-Campus
TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom

Download Brochure

Bachelor of Creative Industries (Contemporary Music Practice) (ARB403)

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Bachelor of Creative Industries (Contemporary Music Practice)

COURSE CODE: ARB403
Payment Options

How can I pay for this course?

No matter what your circumstances, TAFE Queensland has a payment option to suit you. If you are unsure of what’s right for you, get in touch. We’re here to help. 

Payment plan

If you have difficulty paying for the full cost of a course upfront, you may be eligible for a payment plan.

Learn more
Upfront payment

This may be the full fee for the course, or the student contribution amount if you are eligible for a subsidy or concession.

Learn more
HECS help

HECS-HELP is an Australian Government loan scheme for eligible students studying in a Commonwealth Supported Place, that covers the cost of your tuition fees on your behalf.

Learn more

 

Entry requirements

Selection criteria

Admission into this course is based on an entrance rank.
A rank can be achieved by the following means:

  • Year 12 ATAR
  • diploma pathway
  • other Australian qualification
  • work experience
  • overseas qualification


We also offer a number of entry initiatives that give you the opportunity to gain entry to university via alternate pathway programs and admission
schemes. More information is available on the University of Canberra website 


In addition to the above, your entry will be based on one of the following:

a live or online audition

OR

a written personal reference from your Year 12 high school music teacher with accompanying academic statement.

Resources required

Your own musical equipment and essential music backline gear is required. Computer hardware and software is provided on campus.

It is recommended that students have access to a reliable internet connection to access the University of Canberra’s online learning system Canvas, and a computer with up-to-date software, including Microsoft Office and Adobe Acrobat Reader. This equipment and software is available for students to use at all TAFE Queensland locations.

Placement

Work Integrated Learning (WIL) is embedded within this degree.

Important information

Articulation:

  • Any one-year TAFE Queensland diploma (or equivalent) can articulate with 24 credit point transfer, which equates to one year full time study (or 8 units).
  • 24 credit point transfer, which equates to one year full time study (or 8 units), from any other degree program.


Recommended Electives:
Year 1, Semester 2 - 9709 Music Skills
Year 2, Semester 1 - 11134 Sound Design 


Student Services and Amenities Fee:
You will be required to pay a SSAF.


Pathways to Honours:
The Bachelor of Arts and Design (Honours) is open to students who have completed a UC/TAFE QLD partnership degree with at least a grade point average of 5.0 or better (equivalent to a credit average), or students from a three-year degree in a cognate discipline with a relevant major in which they received a grade point average of 5.0 or better.

Pass degree graduates in similar disciplinary fields from other universities, with comparable results, may also be eligible to undertake this honours degree.

Assessment methods

Skill and knowledge assessments are an essential step in progressing through your course. You may be assessed in a number of ways while you are studying at TAFE Queensland, including observation, written assessment, questioning, portfolios, work samples, third-party feedback, and through recognition of prior learning. Read more about assessment methods.

How to apply

Direct application

If you're ready to get started, simply hit the Apply Now button on your preferred course information page and get your application underway online. 

Apply through QTAC

You can apply to study this course through the Queensland Tertiary Admission Centre (QTAC). You will need to submit your application on the QTAC website. It will be assessed, and if you are successful you will receive an offer directly through QTAC. You will need to accept your offer from QTAC before enrolling with TAFE Queensland.

Course disclaimer

All information was accurate at time of publication, however TAFE policies, tuition fees and course content is subject to change without notice. Course commencement is dependent on sufficient enrolment numbers. Timetable information is subject to change prior to commencement and/or during the duration of your course.