For domestic students, start your study journey here.
National code: CUA50820 | CRICOS Code: 110849B
Diploma of Music (Sound Production)
OverviewAbout this course
The Diploma of Music (Sound Production) prepares you to work in the entertainment industry as an assistant sound engineer or sound designer.
Learn and apply theoretical knowledge and use a range of technical and managerial skills to plan, carry out and evaluate sound production work. You will also develop specialist expertise and learn to exercise music knowledge and artistic judgment.
Refine your knowledge of music production software and create your own original music, beats, toplines and remixes. Practise your skills in synthesis, pitch shifting, time warping, filters and effects. Develop a skillset that will see you stand out in studios around the world.
OutcomesWhat you'll gain
Learn new skills
Through a mix of theory and practical coursework, learn to:
- Edit and mix audio
- Perform and produce studio recordings
- Apply audio theory and understand signal paths
- Create and arrange music using music software
- Manage freelance clients and business needs
- Work with copyright arrangements
Gain practical experience
Build your experience and get practical skills in:
- Recording studio operations
- Editing, sound design and other digital audio workstation skills
- Creating beats and other production elements using music software
- Collaborating with producers and musicians
Develop your professional confidence
Develop the qualities you need to get ahead in this industry:
- Creativity and problem-solving abilities
- Commitment to developing your skills through practice
- Teamwork and collaboration skills
- Punctuality and consistency
- The ability to seek, deliver and use constructive feedback
Career pathways
This qualification could help you prepare for roles like:
- Music producer
- Post-production editor
- Project collaborator
- Assistant sound mixer
- Audio-visual operator
- Live sound assistant
- Casual technician
SuitabilityInternational entry requirements
At TAFE NSW each course has entry requirements. These help us to make sure that your course choice is right for you and help determine your suitability for a course. We want you to be confident in your decision and successful in your studies.
Academic Requirements:
- Year 12 or equivalent
English Language Requirements:
- Academic IELTS 6.0 (with no individual band less than 5.5) or equivalent
Additional Requirement:
- Submission of video or audio files or attend an interview demonstrating your sound production ability. The interview will take place via an online video conferencing platform such as Zoom or Microsoft Teams.
OR
- Complete a CUA30920 Certificate III in Music (Sound Production)
TAFE NSW makes every effort to ensure your Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) needs are met. The level of support you need may be assessed via a review of your LLN skills with written tasks and a one-on-one interview. If you need to strengthen your LLN skills, an individual training plan will be created with you.
To be prepared for this course, it is recommended that you have:
- Access to a personal computer and a stable internet connection
- Access to music production software - Adobe Creative Cloud and MS Office Suite
- Some experience with a digital audio workstation (DAW) and programs like Logic, ProTools or Ableton
- A reasonable numeracy level including an understanding of frequencies and counting bars
- A willingness to explore a range of music styles
- The ability to collaborate with people in a team environment
- Some knowledge of audio theory, including types of microphones, basic knowledge of frequencies and volume
- Some knowledge of signal path, such as you might find in a basic home studio or in a simple PA system
If you need help preparing for study, contact us about your options.
Fees and locationsStarting dates, course fees and locations
As an international student, you can choose from a range of different courses, offered at various locations. Experience vibrant spaces, libraries, cafes and gyms, as well as places to make friends and socialise with other students.
| Locations | Starting dates | Course fees |
|---|---|---|
| Ultimo | Feb, Jul | $12,710 AUD |
| Locations | Starting dates | Course fees |
|---|---|---|
| Ultimo | Feb, Jul | $13,220 AUD |
Additional costs
Additional costs for uniforms, equipment, textbooks and materials (if applicable) range from $300 - $1,000 AUD per course.
Structure and unitsWhat you will study
At the start of your course, you will receive your timetable. You will need to study all core units and a range of additional units.
4 core units plus 12 elective units, of which: at least 9 must be from the elective units listed below, with no more than 3 of these units from Group F up to 3 may be from the remaining listed elective units (with the exception of Group F).
Core units are the required units that you must complete.
Manage copyright arrangementsCUACMP511
Provide freelance servicesCUAIND412
Enhance professional practice using creative arts industry knowledgeCUAIND512
Develop and implement own self-care plan in the creative industriesCUAMWB401
PathwaysContinue your studies
At TAFE NSW, you can develop your skills or build your expertise by studying a single course. You can also continue your studies with one of the following pathway options:
Vocational study pathway
Enrol in a range of TAFE NSW courses designed to help you kick-start your career and education goals. You can apply for a Student Visa that will cover the duration of your study.
TAFE NSW degree pathway
From certificates to diplomas, to a TAFE NSW degree, continue your studies with us to help build your success. You can apply for a Student Visa that will cover the duration of your study.
TAFE NSW - university partnership pathways
TAFE NSW has partnerships with a number of Australian universities. These universities offer guaranteed entry and credit transfer to eligible students. How much credit you are eligible for varies depending on the course and university you choose. You can apply for a Student Visa that will cover the duration of your study.
Other university pathways
You may gain entry to another university using your TAFE NSW qualifications. Acceptance and the amount of credit transfer may vary depending on the university and course studies. Check your credit eligibility.
Keep learning with TAFE NSW
Build your expertise with a TAFE NSW Music study pathway:
At TAFE NSW Ultimo
- If you apply for a package of Diploma of Music (Sound Production) -1 year and Bachelor of Creative Practice specialising in Music Production and Performance then due to credits the the Bachelor duration will be reduced to 2 years. (Package Duration:3 years)
You are able to package two or more TAFE NSW courses together. This means you can plan your studies to achieve your career goals. When you apply for a TAFE NSW vocational pathway, you can apply for a Student Visa that will cover the duration of your study.
ServicesCampus facilities and support services
TAFE NSW provides support services across all campus locations. Whatever your needs or circumstances, we have the resources, counselling and facilities to support you while you are studying.
You’ll also have access to rehearsal spaces, recording studios equipped to industry standard, specialty music computer labs, audio PA and recording equipment, industry standard speakers for listening to music, as well as a good supply of instruments and other accessories for you to practise your craft.
We offer a range of support services including:
- TAFE NSW Disability Support Service
- TAFE NSW Language, Literacy, and Numeracy (LLN) support
- TAFE NSW Careers, Counselling, and Pathways Service
- Smarthinking – online access to a tutor
- LinkedIn Learning – an online resource that offers innovative courses and tutorials to improve your personal and professional skills
We're here to help
If you have more questions about your course choice or study plans contact us today.
Contact TAFE NSW International