Postgraduate research and admission

What is a postgraduate research in music degree?

Postgraduate research degrees in music can be taken at either a masters level or a doctoral level. The University of Sydney offers two doctoral degrees: a DMA (Doctor of Musical Arts) and a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy). Doctoral degrees are the highest qualifications within the Australian Qualifications Framework. Your research will involve a thesis that explores a specific area in music, deeming you an expert in that field. Our supervising research staff are versed in a range of disciplines and will support the development of your research and communication skills.

Why do postgraduate research at Sydney?

Sydney Conservatorium of Music is one of Australia’s premier music research institutions.

• Work under the supervision of world class researchers highly knowledgeable in their fields.
• Explore your music interest within a vibrant and talented community of expert musicians, researchers and educators – all of whom share a passion for music.
• Develop and share new knowledge about music in both academic and public settings as you develop your own research expertise.

Research courses

Research at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music can be pursued in the following courses.

• Master of Music (Performance)
• Master of Music (Music Education)
• Master of Music (Composition)
• Master of Music (Musicology)
• Doctor of Musical Arts
• Doctor of Philosophy (Music)

All prospective students are encouraged to register for and attend a Preparing for a Research Degree at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music Workshop before beginning the application process. The workshops discuss application procedures, what our selection panels are looking for in research proposals, ways in which you might seek to answer research questions through your artistic practice, and how to approach potential supervisors. Workshop participants should be prepared to talk about their research plans with other participants.

2025 Dates

• 13 February, 5pm
• 20 April, 5pm
• 14 August, 5pm
• 25 September, 5pm

All prospective students for all Sydney Conservatorium of Music Higher Degrees by Research must first lodge an Expression of Interest notice via the form link below.

As part of your expression of interest, you will be asked to upload:

1. A preliminary research proposal of at least 1500-2000 words that outlines your subject area, objectives, introductory literature review, method proposed, significance and schedule of your proposed research project. For tips on writing a compelling research proposal, visit our guide;
2. A one-page CV;
3. Supplementary evidence of expertise (i.e. music scores, links to past performances, samples of academic writing)

Submit an Expression of Interest notice.

We aim to respond to expressions of interest within 30 days of receipt.

If your expression of interest is successful and you are asked to submit a full application, you will need to

1. Obtain two academic referee reports, each one written by a referee who is familiar with your previous academic achievements. We recommend using our Postgraduate Research Referee Form template (pdf, 114KB) for the referee reports; and
2. Submit your application along with your research proposal, CV, academic referee reports, academic transcripts, supplementary evidence of expertise; evidence of agreement from two supervisors to support your project; and other supporting documents such as identification and evidence of residency status as required by the admissions team.

Have questions about admission to our Higher Degrees by research? Contact us at con.apply@sydney.edu.au.