Bachelor of Music
Course details
| NZQF Level | 7 |
|---|
About the course
The Bachelor of Music (BMus) is a specialised degree for music enthusiasts, offering academic, composition, or performance tracks to enhance skills in chosen areas. Ideal for those with musical talent and passion.
The Bachelor of Music (BMus) is a specialist degree that will suit you if you have musical skill and ambition or just a sheer love of music. Choose an Academic, Composition or Performance based programme and learn different styles and techniques that build your skill-base in the areas of music that interest you.
Combining theory with practical tuition, you'll have access to our specialist teaching facilities, including the acclaimed Dr John Gallagher Concert Chamber in the Gallagher Academy of Performing Arts.
Learn more about studying music.
The opportunities for you to practice through performance are endless. Have your compositions performed, or perform yourself, at any of our regular events including the annual Opera production, weekly lunchtime recitals, Friday performance hours and competitions such as the Lilburn Trust Student Competition Awards concert – to name a few.
We also have strong networks in the wider community, which gives you a wider range of performance opportunities.
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Entry requirements
There are five ways you can gain admission to the University of Waikato.
- NCEA University Entrance
- Admission at entrance level
- Discretionary entrance
- University Entrance prior to 2015
- Special admission.
For full details visit Entry Requirements.
For the Bachelor of Music, you must meet UE and one of the following requirements:
- NCEA - 14 credits in Music at Level 3
- NCEA - 20 credits in Music at Level 2
- A Grade 3 Theory pass or better in the New Zealand Music Education Board or Australian Music Education Board examinations, or
- A grade 5 theory pass or better in the Trinity College, or Royal College of Music examinations, or
- A qualification considered equivalent
All other applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
For the Bachelor of Music Performance programme, a selection process applies, and you will be required to successfully complete an audition. These are usually held in September and October and applications are required prior to the audition date. View the audition requirements.
As an international student studying at undergraduate level, you are required to meet English language and academic entry requirements.
View Entry requirements for undergraduate international students.
In addition to the general entry requirements, applicants to the Bachelor of Music must meet one of the following:
- A Grade 5 theory pass or better in the Trinity College or Royal College of Music examinations, or
- A qualification considered equivalent
All other applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
For the Bachelor of Music Performance programme, a selection process applies, and you will be required to successfully complete an audition. These are usually held in September and October and applications are required prior to the audition date.
About the provider
The University of Waikato has two campuses in Hamilton and Tauranga, both located in New Zealand's economic heartland. Our close-knit communities help international students settle in quickly, with the support and connections needed to succeed in their studies, and beyond.
What sets the University of Waikato apart is our commitment to real-world learning. The University has over 2,000 placements or industry-led projects per year. Strong partnerships across government, industry and community organisations provide students with wide career options and practical pathways into New Zealand's job market and beyond.
Established in 1964, we've built a reputation for research excellence and innovation. Consistently ranked among New Zealand's top universities, our international student services, peer mentoring programmes, and close-knit campus communities ensure students feel at home from day one.
Ready to turn your academic goals into career success? Your journey starts at the University of Waikato.
Top 10 reasons to study at Waikato
- International Recognition: Ranked among the top 3 universities in New Zealand and 235th globally (QS World University Rankings 2025).
- Subject Rankings: 11 subjects ranked in the top 350 globally (QS Subject Rankings 2025); ranked in the 151–175 band globally for Business & Economics (THE Subject Rankings 2025)—the highest for any NZ university.
- Research Excellence: Recognised as the top university in New Zealand for research (QS World University Rankings 2025).
- Triple Crown Accreditation: Waikato Management School is accredited by AACSB, EQUIS, and AMBA, placing it in the top 1% of business schools globally.
- Academic Excellence: Learn fromaward-winning lecturers and researchers in a close-knit academic community known for innovative teaching and learning..
- Flexible Degree Structure: Choose from over 100 subjects to shape a qualification and 200 programs including bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral degrees, diplomas, and certificates —tailored to suit your strengths and career goals.
- Industry Connections: Benefit from over 2,000 industry placements and projects annually through strong partnerships with government, business, and community organisations. Access career and employability services to graduate job-ready.
- Student Support and Campus Life: Vibrant campuses in Hamilton and Tauranga offer modern facilities, easy access to nature, and dedicated student support—including international advisors, tutors, career services, and a buddy programme.
- Scholarships and Bursaries: A range of scholarships available to support both domestic and international students. View our scholarships.
- Inclusive Student Community: Be part of a welcoming, diverse environment with 70+ clubs and 120+ societies covering academics, culture, sports, and more. Waikato is highly recommended by students, with excellent satisfaction ratings in the 2023 Student Barometer Survey. Browse our clubs.
Hamilton is a vibrant, student-friendly city located in the heart of New Zealand’s North Island. Surrounded by stunning nature, students can enjoy scenic parks, hiking trails, and the famous Hobbiton movie set nearby. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, multicultural community, and welcoming vibe making it a perfect place for students to live, study and explore.
Tauranga is a beautiful coastal city in New Zealand's Bay of Plenty, offering students a perfect mix of urban living and outdoor adventure. With its stunning beaches, outdoor activities like hiking and water sports and a warm, sunny climate, it’s an ideal place for students looking to explore, learn and live in a welcoming environment.
Check out a range of accommodation options available on our campuses.