Diploma in Music

This unique diploma focusses solely on jazz, and is taught at the innovative James Morrison Academy of Music in Mount Gambier, South Australia.

You will be immersed in jazz history, styles, analysis and arrangements when you embark on this one-year journey.

Taught by world-renowned jazz musicians and educators, including acclaimed Australian jazz musician James Morrison, you will cover topics such as:

improvisation piano harmony principal study large ensemble and repertoire ensemble Students who have completed the one-year Diploma in Music are able to apply for the Bachelor of Arts and will be eligible for credit equivalent to one year of study.

Students may also apply for the Bachelor of Arts/Master of Teaching (Secondary) packaged option as a direct pathway to teaching.

For further information contact the Program Director.

Entry requirements

Admission criteria

The admission criteria have been grouped to assist you to easily find the information most relevant to your circumstances. However, you may fit into more than one and the university will consider applicants against each of the relevant criteria.

Certain conditions apply. For more information refer to Appendix 4 of the University's Selection and Entry policy.

Applicants are required to meet one of the following criteria with a competitive result, and demonstrate that they fulfil any prerequisite requirements and essential requirements for admission:

Recent secondary education Meet any prerequisite requirements with a minimum grade of C- or equivalent AND

• Qualify for the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE), and achieved a competitive Selection Rank (ATAR), or
• Complete secondary qualifications equivalent to SACE, or
• Complete the International Baccalaureate Diploma with a minimum score of 24 points

Applicants who have not achieved the Selection Rank required for automatic selection may be selected for any remaining places based on the grades of their year 12 subjects.

OR Vocational Education and Training (VET)

• Complete an award from a registered training organisation at Certificate III or Certificate IV level

OR Work and life experience

• Qualify for Special Entry, or
• Complete a UniSA Foundation Studies program or equivalent, or
• Hold completed secondary qualifications equivalent to SACE obtained more than 2 years in the past

Essential requirements for admission

Prerequisites

Assumed Knowledge

This diploma offers the opportunity for you to gain valuable practical experience; you will also gain a strong theoretical background and knowledge of the origins of jazz, as well as technical knowledge and skills. Courses studied cover topics such as:

• jazz history
• styles and arranging
• improvisation
• large ensemble and repertoire ensemble

For each course you study, you will need to allocate time for various classes such as lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Plus you will need additional hours to study in your own time to complete assignments, readings and projects and contribute to online discussion forums (independent study). So as a general rule, if you are studying full-time you would need to allocate 12 – 26 hours of study when at university and 14 – 28 hours of independent study per week.

Your studies will incorporate practical, professionally focused and research-based learning, so assessment types will vary. There may be essays, assignments and examinations. You can also expect them to include:

You will be immersed in a highly creative, vibrant environment, and will be taught by some of this country’s leading musicians. There is no better place to study jazz and to build your network of industry contacts. We host regular University-wide employee master classes, employment expos, and alumni events in Australia and overseas.

Your career

This diploma is for people who want to be involved in the music industry and have a particular interest in jazz. The employment prospects for music professionals is expected to grow moderately through until November 20201. Careers to consider include:

• composer: create original musical scores
• music director: also known as conductors, they direct musical groups such as orchestras and choirs
• musician/singer: perform music for live audiences and recordings

1 Australian Government Department of Employment, Occupational Employment Projections 2015

To apply to study with us go to the top of this page and click Apply. You will be directed to our online application portal.

This diploma is taught in Mount Gambier at the James Morrison Academy of Music. This diploma offers a unique experience to aspiring musicians where they can work with some of the finest jazz educators in the world. The courses are performance-based, where students don’t just learn about music – they learn how to make music.

The James Morrison Academy of Music is situated in the 'Old Town Hall' in Mount Gambier right in the heart of the city. Apart from having all the facilities we need within this beautiful historic building, we are also right next to the City Library and Sir Robert Helpmann Theatre, creating a cultural precinct around the Cave Gardens.

Our student support services will make your life at university easier. We want you to be successful, and if you need help, we're here to assist. We provide a full range of support services, including:

• academic counselling
• personal counselling
• social support services, including family support and nearby childcare

We have six campuses in metropolitan and regional areas, each with advanced facilities including modern lecture theatres, libraries, laboratories, and areas that simulate real work environments.