Contemporary Popular Music-Bachelor of Arts

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 3 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon February 2027

Course Overview

The Bachelor of Arts in Contemporary Popular Music at the University Of Western Australia is for aspiring musicians and industry professionals ready to immerse themselves in the dynamic world of modern music creation and business. You will explore the global landscape of popular music, developing essential practical skills in principal studies, songwriting, and electronic music production. This undergraduate degree is designed for students eager to build a robust understanding of music theory, performance practice, and the entrepreneurial aspects crucial for a successful career in the contemporary music industry.

You will study this programme full-time on campus over three years, engaging with core units in popular music history, principal studies, and professional skills. The curriculum integrates contemporary performance, songwriting, and digital creativity, allowing you to develop a collaborative portfolio that mirrors industry practices. You will gain hands-on experience in artistic self-management, critical thinking, and digital production techniques. Graduates will be prepared for diverse career pathways, including performance, composition, music business, and artist management, equipped with a comprehensive skill set for the evolving music sector.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Bachelor of Arts program in Contemporary Popular Music explores the global landscape of popular music and develops principal study skills across multiple levels. Students will engage with foundational concepts, including music theory for electronic musicians and songwriting, alongside specialized studies in electronic music, sampling, and synthesis. The curriculum culminates in advanced principal studies and professional skills essential for navigating the music industry as an artist, with opportunities to explore diverse topics such as music in film, television, video games, and societal contexts.

1 Level 1

Popular music in global perspective
Contemporary popular music principal studies 1
Contemporary popular music principal studies 2

2 Option

Music theory for electronic musicians
Songwriting: An introduction
Music language 1

3 Level 2

Electronic music: Sampling and synthesis
Contemporary popular music principal studies 3
Contemporary popular music principal studies 4

4 Level 3

Contemporary popular music principal studies 5
Professional skills: Music industry and artist

5 Option

Music in the sixties
Music in film, TV and video games
Music, society, and ideas
Topics in performance practice

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 36,582.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 36,582.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 36,582.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 109,748.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 580.00 - USD 1,974.00
Food & Groceries USD 2,122.00 - USD 2,971.00
Transport USD 849.00 - USD 1,698.00
Utilities & Bills USD 849.00 - USD 1,698.00
Estimated Total USD 3,820.00 - USD 6,367.00

Living cost estimates are based on Crawley Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

85%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Amusement & Recreation ServicesAnimation & Visual EffectsEvent Promotion & ManagementGaming & Interactive MediaLive Events & ConcertsMusic & Performing ArtsSports & AthleticsStreaming & Digital ContentTalent & Artist ManagementTheme Parks & Leisure

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Co3 Contemporary Dance Australia

Why Study Contemporary Popular Music-Bachelor of Arts at University of Western Australia

What makes this program stand out

February 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in February 2027

Very Fast Application response time

University of Western Australia typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 days, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at University of Western Australia in Australia

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Contemporary Popular Music-Bachelor of Arts at University of Western Australia

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 48 hours every fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during breaks in Australia. No additional work permit is needed for this.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet the English test requirements, you need an overall IELTS score of 6.5, with minimum listening, reading, speaking, and writing scores of 6. Make sure to prepare accordingly to achieve these scores.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as a Music Producer, Songwriter, Performer, Audio Engineer, or Music Entrepreneur.

What will I actually study in this course?

This major focuses on contemporary performance and composition, as well as songwriting and digital creativity. You'll also develop essential entrepreneurial skills and a collaborative portfolio that reflects the music industry's practices.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The intake month for the Contemporary Popular Music Bachelor of Arts program is February. Ensure you apply ahead of time to secure your spot.
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