Music

Overview

‌Music in all its forms is used the world over as a means of leisure, communication and enlightenment. The music industry is prolific globally and offers paid work to a vast array of practitioners.

The Bachelor of Music (MusB) is a specialised three-year degree for those who want to concentrate their studies on Music. 

Features of the Bachelor of Music at UC

• A wide selection of courses, both practical and academic
• Nationally and internationally respected staff of performers, composers and musicologists
• A rich music environment is enjoyed university-wide, with over a hundred concerts performed on campus each year
• Christchurch offers additional musical opportunities within a vibrant, extended music community.

The Bachelor of Music requires a total of 360 points:

• about 75% must be in Music courses, including compulsory courses at 100 and 200-level
• in the first year you must take four compulsory courses (60 points) as well as courses towards your chosen major
• a minimum of 60 points must be from 300-level Music courses.

Students have considerable flexibility in choosing their courses in the second and third years of the MusB degree.

Admission to UC with University Entrance, or equivalent, is required to enrol for a Bachelor's degree. Domestic applicants over 20 who do not hold University Entrance, or equivalent, may gain admission by providing evidence of their ability to complete tertiary study successfully. For information on gaining admission to UC please see how to apply for undergraduate qualifications. Some courses have specfic entry requirements – please see below. 

You are also required to meet UC’s English language requirements.

Specific entry requirements

It is strongly recommended that you have NCEA Level 2 or 3 music, or the equivalent of these.

Performance courses

Entry to the Performance courses (instrument or voice) is limited. Places are awarded on the basis of a School of Music audition. Apply for the 2017 Performance courses as soon as possible (no later than 21 October 2016).

Composition or songwriting courses

If you intend to study composition or songwriting courses in the Bachelor of Music, you will need to have good musical literacy and notational skills. Some previous experience in the writing and performance of your own music is recommended.

Submission of a portfolio is required for MUSA120 Song Writing 1 and MUSA121 Notated Composition 1A and should be made to the School of Music by 4 November 2016 for 2017 entry.

Career opportunities

Music graduates are found in a wide range of occupations including positions in orchestras, choirs, opera houses, conservatories, universities, schools, and other education contexts. They are prominent in areas of musical leadership.

Those who wish to work in education find that the inclusion of some music in their degree can be beneficial.

UC Music graduates also work in fields such as journalism, television and radio (planning as well as production), publishing, and in technical areas such as recording, computer instruments, sound engineering and music technology. 

People with musical talent are sought after by festival organisers and arts organisations.