Arts and Music

Diploma of Music

CRICOS: 108387A

Picture yourself performing on stage, creating captivating compositions, and leading worship with confidence and skill. The Diploma of Music at Alphacrucis University College equips you with the foundational knowledge and practical skills needed to thrive in the music industry and ministry settings.

Course Duration
1 year full time, up to 4 years part time
Study Modes
Online Recorded, Online Live, Face to Face
Study Locations
Not Currently Available
Start Dates
March (S1), Aug (S2)
Fees
$2,250 per subject
Subjects/Units
8

What is the Diploma of Music?

The Diploma of Music is a practical course designed to prepare students for diverse roles in the music industry. This program introduces you to solo and ensemble performance, music theory, business aspects of the music industry, composition, and recording. You will develop writing and research skills and learn to apply your new knowledge in various professional and entertainment contexts. Drawing on AC’s established expertise in music, this course emphasises vocational application, making it ideal for those who are looking to lay a foundation for a career in the music industry or as a worship pastor.

Who is this for?

Aspiring Musicians: Are you looking to build a solid foundation in music performance, theory, and business?

Worship Leaders and Pastors: Do you want to enhance your skills and leadership in congregational music-making?

Community and Not-for-profit Leadership: Do you seek to integrate music into your work in not-for-profit and mission-focused organisations?

Sound like you? Why don’t you enquire about the Diploma of Music at Alphacrucis University College.

Outcomes

Worship Leader/Pastor: Lead and coordinate music in church settings.

Professional Musician: Perform as a solo artist or as part of an ensemble in various professional contexts.

Music Composer and Arranger: Create and arrange music for different settings, including recording studios and live performances.

Artist and Project Manager: Manage and promote music projects and artists within the industry.

Community Music Facilitator: Use music to support community initiatives and mission-focused organisations.

Alphacrucis has Lecturers who are not just experienced musicians and worship leaders; they have shown character and integrity for decades. These are the people we want training the next generation.

Darlene Zchech, Senior Pastor Kingdomcity

Accreditation

Course Structure

Subjects & Units

Core
5 Subjects
50 Credit Points
Faith and Purpose ACA001
Discover the foundations of faith and how it relates to one's worldview and purpose. Students will explore the Christian story from Scripture and express ideas of their own faith, examine how faith shapes views on the meaning and purpose of life, the value of humanity and ideas of human flourishing. Expand your perspective in this core subject and understand the significance of faith in all areas of life.
Professional Practice EXP001

Ready to bridge theory with real-world experience? Professional Practice is tailored precisely for this purpose. Dive into the academic exploration of professional practice, while gaining hands-on experience through a placement. Under the guidance of experienced mentors, students complete a 100-hour placement (or opt for two 50-hour placements over two semesters) in various formats, enriching their learning journey.

Music Theory, Aural Skills, and Technology MUS010

There are important tools required to understand music's unique language of pitch, rhythm, and dynamics. This subject enhances your theoretical knowledge, aural perception, and musical literacy, integrating technology as a pivotal tool in learning and creating music. Whether you're aiming to compose, perform, or simply deepen your understanding of music, this unit provides a comprehensive platform for your musical development.

Music Performance MUS030

Enhancing your onstage presence and refining performance skills are essential to any musician. The unit delves into the practical aspects of performing, including preparation, audience engagement, and technique extension. It also covers business considerations, such as negotiating contracts and managing relationships.

Introduction to Worship Ministry WOR001

This is an essential subject for those looking to deepen their understanding of the spiritual, biblical, and theological aspects of worship. Explore the role of music and arts within worship and examines the various roles and responsibilities in contemporary worship ministry. This unit is an invaluable resource for anyone involved in or aspiring to enter this vital area of church life.

Electives
3 Subjects
30 Credit Points
Choose 3 of the following subjects
Write Songs WOR002

This subject equips students with an understanding of compositional techniques so they can compose their own original music. Students will gain an understanding of harmonic and melodic structures and will arrange song elements to maximise the intent and impact of songs.

Music Theory, Aural Skills, and Technology MUS010

There are important tools required to understand music's unique language of pitch, rhythm, and dynamics. This subject enhances your theoretical knowledge, aural perception, and musical literacy, integrating technology as a pivotal tool in learning and creating music. Whether you're aiming to compose, perform, or simply deepen your understanding of music, this unit provides a comprehensive platform for your musical development.

Independent Study in Specific Creative Arts MUS020

Through this unit, students are offered a dynamic environment where they can hone their artistic skills through performance and peer collaboration. This highly practical subject encourages you to explore various genres, focusing on solo and ensemble work while tackling performance techniques like managing stress and enhancing audience engagement—ideal for artists seeking to refine their craft and express their creative vision effectively in live settings.

Music Performance MUS030

Enhancing your onstage presence and refining performance skills are essential to any musician. The unit delves into the practical aspects of performing, including preparation, audience engagement, and technique extension. It also covers business considerations, such as negotiating contracts and managing relationships.

Music Ensembles MUS035

To perform effectively within an ensemble, it is crucial to sharpen your skills in group performance, harmonise effectively with others and deepen your understanding of ensemble dynamics. This subject focuses on the critical elements of successful performances, from selecting styles and techniques that suit your group's objectives to mastering the art of audience engagement—perfect for musicians aiming to elevate their collaborative abilities and stage presence.

More Information

For more information and details of previous course structures see Student Handbook.
*You can also use the Subject & Unit Search to explore the subjects (including electives) available to enrol in for this course and can filter by subject area and level.
For a full list of course dates for new and continuing students, please see our Timetables.

What people say

  • Learning Outcomes

    Knowledge

    • General understanding of key issues, recent scholarship and practices within chosen discipline area of music, consistent with a Christian worldview.
    • Technical and theoretical understanding of research principles and methods, and knowledge of research approaches used in the discipline area of music.

    Skills

    • Identify, analyse and synthesise theoretical knowledge in the discipline area of music.
    • Examine an instrument/vocal problem using appropriate methodologies and theories from the discipline area of music.
    • Analyse and synthesise ideas and theories from other disciplines related to the discipline area of music.
    • Communicate effectively and creatively ideas and perspectives to peers and general audiences in diverse contexts.

    Application of Knowledge and Skills

    • Apply specialised theoretical knowledge, and creative and technical skills to a range of musical contexts, including composition and performance.
    • Articulate questions or issues and apply the knowledge and skills developed within the discipline area of music to develop appropriate solutions.
    • Work independently, responsibly and with the level expected in a broad range of professional and entertainment contexts.
    • Collaborate in team projects to make a positive contribution toward social issues.
    • Undertake self-reflection and evaluation of performance for the purpose of vocational development.

    Admission Criteria

    Entry Requirements

    Pre-admission Interview

    The Program Director may conduct a pre-admission interview (either face-to-face or phone or online) with any applicants to assess academic suitability and preparedness of the applicant for this level study.

    Essential Requirements

    Applicants will undertake a musical audition with the Program Director (or delegated representative) to determine instrumental/vocal competence. Applicants may attend a live audition or submit a recording for assessment. The Program Director (or delegated representative) will consider all other results (for example: ATAR, TAFE, GPA, STAT test) in assessing instrumental/vocal competence.

    How to Apply

    • Get Started

      Read through the admissions criteria and ensure you meet the entry requirements.

    • Apply

      It’s easy! Apply online below or contact us and we can help on 1300 228 355.

    • Offer

      We’ll contact you shortly after to confirm your details and help you through the rest of the process.

    Key Dates
    Semester 1
    Term 1
    February / March
    Term 2
    April
    Semester 2
    Term 3
    July / August
    Term 4
    November