Season’s greetings! Our campuses are closed from the 21 December 2024 until Monday, 6 January 2025, but you can still enrol for 2025 at www.tafensw.edu.au or speak to our Student Sales team on 131 601 Monday – Friday, 8:30 am to 5:30 pm (excluding public holidays).

    OverviewAbout this course

    The Certificate III in Music (Sound Production) will give you an introduction to the music industry and teach you the principles of sound engineering. Learn about studio recording and live sound as you gain experience performing live mixing and recording a finished song.

    Develop basic audio skills and knowledge, assist with sound recordings, perform basic sound editing and mix sound. Learn how to incorporate technology into music making and make a music demo.

    During the course, you'll work in a recording studio using industry-standard software and recording equipment to create music. You'll also have access to specialty music computer labs, industry-standard speakers for listening to music, and instruments to help you to practise your craft.

    OutcomesWhat you'll gain

    Learn new skills

    Through a mix of theory and practical coursework, learn to: 

    • Put on a gig as a sound technician
    • Make a finished song recording
    • Use music software and hardware
    • Install and disassemble audio equipment
    • Prepare audio assets

    Gain practical experience

    Build your experience and get practical skills in:

    • Using a recording studio
    • Creating music using music software and hardware
    • Setting up small PA systems and live sound
    • Communicating effectively with other creatives
    • Working with, and understanding copyright
    • Basic sound editing

    Develop your professional confidence

    Develop the qualities you need to get ahead in this industry:

    • Creativity
    • A love of music
    • A collaborative nature
    • Patience and commitment to practice and hone their craft

    Career pathways

    This qualification could help you prepare for roles like:

    • Assistant Recording Engineer
    • Assistant Live Sound Engineer
    • Assistant Sound Mixer
    • Live Sound Assistant
    • Music Producer

    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.

    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.

    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.


    3 core units plus 8 elective units, of which: at least 6 must be from the elective units listed below, with no more than 2 of these units from Group E up to 2 may be from the listed elective units (with the exception of Group E) or from this or any currently endorsed training package qualification or accredited course.

    Core units are the required units that you must complete.

    • Implement copyright arrangementsCUACMP311

    • Work effectively in the music industryCUAIND313

    • Plan a career in the creative arts industryCUAIND314

    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:

    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.

    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


    Music students will 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're here to help

    If you have more questions about your course choice or study plans contact us today.

    Contact TAFE NSW International