COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Music (Music Education) at the University of Sydney is a structured four-year program designed to prepare students for professional careers as music teachers in primary and secondary schools. The curriculum combines advanced musical training with education theory, pedagogy, and practical teaching experience. In the first year, students build foundational skills through principal study, aural perception, harmony and analysis, ensemble performance, and introductory music education subjects that explore key ideas and approaches in teaching music. In the second year, the program develops further musical understanding and introduces education-focused units such as fundamentals of teaching, psychology of learning and instruction, children’s music education, and specialised areas like Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander music and jazz education in schools. The third year places greater emphasis on applied teaching practice and adolescent learning, with units in professional experience, ensemble pedagogy, technology in music education, and curriculum development for junior secondary music. Students also continue advanced principal study or electives in performance or composition. In the final year, students engage in senior secondary music education, cultural diversity in music teaching, and advanced professional experience placements, along with studies in professional issues in education. Overall, the program integrates musical excellence with teaching expertise to produce qualified, confident, and adaptable music educators.