Sydney Conservatorium of Music

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Postgraduate research

Develop your research expertise and contribute new knowledge to music
  • https://www.sydney.edu.au/courses/search.html#f-usyd_courses_fieldofstudy=music&f-courses_search_type=Courses.html Find a course

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Shape the future of music through original research and scholarly inquiry.

Our postgraduate research programs provide the opportunity to investigate complex questions, contribute new knowledge to the field and develop the skills needed to make an impact across academia, industry and the broader cultural sector.

Supported by expert supervisors across a diverse range of disciplines, you'll refine your critical thinking and research capabilities while joining a vibrant community of researchers, educators and artists.

Before you apply

All prospective students are encouraged to register for and attend a Preparing for a Research Degree at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music workshop before beginning the application process.

The workshops discuss application procedures, what our selection panels are looking for in research proposals, ways in which you might seek to answer research questions through your artistic practice, and how to approach potential supervisors. Workshop participants should be prepared to talk about their research plans with other participants.

2026 Dates

Note: These are online-only sessions held on Zoom. The link will be sent to you several days before the session. For details and cancellation, see the automated email that is sent following registration.

Applying for admission

All prospective students for all Sydney Conservatorium of Music Higher Degrees by Research must first lodge an Expression of Interest notice via the form link below.

As part of your expression of interest, you will be asked to upload:

  1. A preliminary research proposal of at least 1500-2000 words that outlines your subject area, objectives, introductory literature review, method proposed, significance and schedule of your proposed research project. For tips on writing a compelling research proposal, visit our guide;
  2. A one-page CV;
  3. Supplementary evidence of expertise (i.e. music scores, links to past performances, samples of academic writing)
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We aim to respond to expressions of interest within 30 days of receipt.

If your expression of interest is successful and you are asked to submit a full application, you will need to

  1. Obtain two academic referee reports, each one written by a referee who is familiar with your previous academic achievements. We recommend using our Postgraduate Research Referee Form template (pdf, 114KB) for the referee reports; and
  2. Submit your application along with your research proposal, CV, academic referee reports, academic transcripts, supplementary evidence of expertise; evidence of agreement from two supervisors to support your project; and other supporting documents such as identification and evidence of residency status as required by the admissions team.

Have questions?

Have questions about admission to our Higher Degrees by research? Contact us at con.apply@sydney.edu.au.