For domestic students, start your study journey here.
National code: CUA30920 | CRICOS Code: 110848C
Certificate III in Music (Creation and Composition)
OverviewAbout this course
Enter into the exciting and creative world of music when you study the Certificate III in Music (Creation and Composition) at TAFE NSW. This course offers aspiring musicians and beatmakers the opportunity to explore modern techniques and tools in music production. You'll also develop your skills in lyric writing, mixing and composition.
Whether you're a beginner, eager to get a start in the industry, or you're looking to expand your creative horizons, this course provides a solid foundation for success in music production. Led by industry-experienced teachers, you'll receive expert guidance and mentorship as you navigate the intricacies of music creation and composition.
OutcomesWhat you'll gain
Learn new skills
Through a mix of theory and practical coursework, learn to:
- Create music using music software and hardware
- Collaborate with other creatives
- Plan your career in the creative arts industry and build industry networks
- Identify and solve issues related to sound within musical composition or performance (sonic problem-solving)
- Work with copyright (source copyright information, get permission to use other people’s material, protect material from unauthorised use and apply copyright notices for creative works)
Gain practical experience
Build your experience and get practical skills in:
- Creating simple musical compositions and writing song lyrics
- Recording and mixing basic music demos using music technology
- Adjusting the mix or balance of individual instruments or vocal parts to optimise the acoustics of a recording or performance
- Troubleshooting technical issues with audio equipment or software
- Building a creative portfolio of your work
Develop your professional confidence
Develop the qualities you need to get ahead in this industry:
- Creativity
- A love of music
- A collaborative nature
- Adaptability
- Patience and commitment to practice and refine your craft
Career pathways
This qualification could help you prepare for roles like:
- Songwriter
- Studio Assistant
- Producer
- Assistant at a production house, record company or music school
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 10 or equivalent
English Language Requirements:
- Academic IELTS 6.0 (with no individual band less than 5.5) or equivalent
TAFE NSW makes every effort to ensure your Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) needs are met. The level of support you require 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:
- Previous experience in creating music of some kind
- An interest in music technology and software
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 | Jul | $7,780 AUD |
| Locations | Starting dates | Course fees |
|---|---|---|
| Ultimo | Feb, Jul | $7,780 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.
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
Strengthen 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.
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 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