CUA30920

Certificate III in Music

Start your career in music with this entry-level course that will help you get your big break as a musician or audio assistant.

Apply now

STUDY LOCATIONS Greater Brisbane Gold Coast North Queensland

WAYS TO STUDY On campus TAFE at School

LAST CHANCE TO APPLY Start date: 14 Jul 2025 Duration: 6 months View all intakes

WHAT YOU'LL PAY

Subsidised

$840

Full Fee

$6,340

TAFE at School Full Fee

$3,180

Eligibility calculator

Course overview

Kick start your career in the music industry with this entry-level qualification.

Develop performance and music composition skills. Learn the fundamentals of music theory. Gain knowledge of the inner workings of the music industry.

This course will also give you access to studios and industry-standard software, and foundation skills for operating live sound and recording and mixing music.

Our highly experienced and passionate teaching team have years of industry experience and will give you the one-on-one guidance you need to prepare you for a career in the music industry.

The creative arts industry plays an important role in Australia's economy. According to the Australian Government's MySkills service, it contributes over $10 billion to the economy and employs nearly 100,000 people. The emergence of new technologies and wide range of job prospects available mean this is an exciting industry to be a part of.

Successful completion of this course will give you the skills to work as a musician or an audio assistant or stagehand.

What can I do?

Stage Hand
Audio Assistant
Musician

Course outcome:

CUA30920 Certificate III in Music

Get your break

From Q Music award winners to Aria chart toppers and successful touring musicians, our hall of fame is forever growing. With a combination of state-of-the-art studios, and teachers with strong industry connections, our students are equipped with the know-how to get their big break.

Industry standard studios

Students have access to rehearsal rooms and performance spaces equipped with guitar amplifiers, keyboards and drum kits. Our studios have world-class recording facilities featuring industry standard software, hardware and microphones.

What you will study

The successful achievement of this qualification requires you to complete all core and 8 elective units from the list below.

UNIT CODE
UNIT NAME

UNIT CODE
CUACMP311

Implement copyright arrangements

UNIT CODE :
CUACMP311

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to implement individual or collaborative copyright arrangements.
UNIT NAME
Implement copyright arrangements

UNIT CODE
CUAIND313

Work effectively in the music industry

UNIT CODE :
CUAIND313

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to work effectively in the music industry.
UNIT NAME
Work effectively in the music industry

UNIT CODE
CUAIND314

Plan a career in the creative arts industry

UNIT CODE :
CUAIND314

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to identify and evaluate career opportunities in the creative arts industry, including personal skills analysis and portfolio development.
UNIT NAME
Plan a career in the creative arts industry

UNIT CODE
UNIT NAME

Gold Coast

Gold Coast

UNIT CODE
CUAMCP311

Create simple musical compositions

UNIT CODE :
CUAMCP311

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to create simple musical compositions, which may include songs or musical pieces.
UNIT NAME
Create simple musical compositions

UNIT CODE
CUAMCP313

Create simple musical pieces using music technology

UNIT CODE :
CUAMCP313

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to prepare for and use electronic media and computer-based technology to create simple musical pieces.
UNIT NAME
Create simple musical pieces using music technology

UNIT CODE
CUAMLT311

Develop and apply aural perception skills

UNIT CODE :
CUAMLT311

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to develop and apply methods for aurally recognising simple structures and components of music.
UNIT NAME
Develop and apply aural perception skills

UNIT CODE
CUAMLT313

Develop musical notation skills

UNIT CODE :
CUAMLT313

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to set down music in a notated form, by hand or using computer-based music notation applications.
UNIT NAME
Develop musical notation skills

UNIT CODE
CUAMPF311

Develop technical skills for musical performances

UNIT CODE :
CUAMPF311

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to build on basic technical skills in a chosen area of music specialisation.
UNIT NAME
Develop technical skills for musical performances

UNIT CODE
CUAMPF312

Prepare for musical performances

UNIT CODE :
CUAMPF312

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to prepare for musical performances, including practising a selected instrument and/or voice.
UNIT NAME
Prepare for musical performances

UNIT CODE
CUASOU211

Develop basic audio skills and knowledge

UNIT CODE :
CUASOU211

Unit description :
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to complete basic audio tasks in different production contexts.
UNIT NAME
Develop basic audio skills and knowledge

UNIT CODE
CUASOU317

Record and mix basic music demos

UNIT CODE :
CUASOU317

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to plan, record and mix a basic music demonstration (demo).
UNIT NAME
Record and mix basic music demos

Greater Brisbane / North Queensland

Greater Brisbane / North Queensland

UNIT CODE
CUAMCP311

Create simple musical compositions

UNIT CODE :
CUAMCP311

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to create simple musical compositions, which may include songs or musical pieces.
UNIT NAME
Create simple musical compositions

UNIT CODE
CUAMCP313

Create simple musical pieces using music technology

UNIT CODE :
CUAMCP313

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to prepare for and use electronic media and computer-based technology to create simple musical pieces.
UNIT NAME
Create simple musical pieces using music technology

UNIT CODE
CUAMLT311

Develop and apply aural perception skills

UNIT CODE :
CUAMLT311

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to develop and apply methods for aurally recognising simple structures and components of music.
UNIT NAME
Develop and apply aural perception skills

UNIT CODE
CUAMLT313

Develop musical notation skills

UNIT CODE :
CUAMLT313

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to set down music in a notated form, by hand or using computer-based music notation applications.
UNIT NAME
Develop musical notation skills

UNIT CODE
CUAMPF311

Develop technical skills for musical performances

UNIT CODE :
CUAMPF311

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to build on basic technical skills in a chosen area of music specialisation.
UNIT NAME
Develop technical skills for musical performances

UNIT CODE
CUAMPF312

Prepare for musical performances

UNIT CODE :
CUAMPF312

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to prepare for musical performances, including practising a selected instrument and/or voice.
UNIT NAME
Prepare for musical performances

UNIT CODE
CUASOU211

Develop basic audio skills and knowledge

UNIT CODE :
CUASOU211

Unit description :
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to complete basic audio tasks in different production contexts.
UNIT NAME
Develop basic audio skills and knowledge

UNIT CODE
CUASOU317

Record and mix basic music demos

UNIT CODE :
CUASOU317

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to plan, record and mix a basic music demonstration (demo).
UNIT NAME
Record and mix basic music demos

Note: For some courses, not all electives are available at all campuses.

Ways to study

Choose your study location

On Campus

You'll learn face to face with a teacher in a classroom or simulated workplace environment. You may access learning materials through our online learning management system Connect. Learn more
View comparison chart

On campus with some online

You’ll primarily learn face to face with a teacher in one of our learning spaces such as a classroom or simulated workplace environment. Some of your training may also take place via video or Zoom. Learn more
View comparison chart

On Campus

You'll learn face to face with a teacher in a classroom or simulated workplace environment. You may access learning materials through our online learning management system Connect. Learn more
View comparison chart

CAMPUS	STUDY MODE	START DATE	DURATION	WORKLOAD	WHAT YOU'LL PAY
South Bank	On Campus	14 Jul 2025	6 months	Full time 3 days per week	Subsidised: $840 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $6,340 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. More Apply
South Bank On Campus Online Time How much of the course will be delivered online. 0% On Campus Time 100% START DATE The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 14 Jul 2025 The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. DURATION The total length of time it takes to complete the course. 6 months The total length of time it takes to complete the course. Workload The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. Full time 3 days per week The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. WHAT YOU'LL PAY Subsidised: $840 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $6,340 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. Class format Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. Teacher-led, Scheduled Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. VIRTUAL CLASS Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). No Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). ASSESSMENT The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. On-Campus The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. TEACHER COMMS The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Less Ask a question Apply
South Bank	On Campus	27 Jan 2026	6 months	Full time 3 days per week	Subsidised: $840 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $6,340 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. More Apply
South Bank On Campus Online Time How much of the course will be delivered online. 0% On Campus Time 100% START DATE The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 27 Jan 2026 The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. DURATION The total length of time it takes to complete the course. 6 months The total length of time it takes to complete the course. Workload The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. Full time 3 days per week The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. WHAT YOU'LL PAY Subsidised: $840 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $6,340 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. Class format Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. Teacher-led, Scheduled Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. VIRTUAL CLASS Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). No Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). ASSESSMENT The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. On-Campus The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. TEACHER COMMS The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Less Ask a question Apply

CAMPUS	STUDY MODE	START DATE	DURATION	WORKLOAD	WHAT YOU'LL PAY
Coomera	On campus with some online	14 Jul 2025	6 months	Full time 2 days per week Wednesday, Thursday	Subsidised: $840 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $6,340 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. More Apply
Coomera On campus with some online Online Time How much of the course will be delivered online. 20% On Campus Time 80% START DATE The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 14 Jul 2025 The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. DURATION The total length of time it takes to complete the course. 6 months The total length of time it takes to complete the course. Workload The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. Full time 2 days per week Wednesday, Thursday The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. WHAT YOU'LL PAY Subsidised: $840 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $6,340 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. Class format Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. Teacher-led, Scheduled Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. VIRTUAL CLASS Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). No Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). ASSESSMENT The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. Online, On-Campus The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. TEACHER COMMS The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Less Ask a question Apply

CAMPUS	STUDY MODE	START DATE	DURATION	WORKLOAD	WHAT YOU'LL PAY
Cairns	On Campus	14 Jul 2025	6 months	Full time 3 days per week 9am - 4pm Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday	Subsidised: $840 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $6,340 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. More Apply
Cairns On Campus Online Time How much of the course will be delivered online. 0% On Campus Time 100% START DATE The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 14 Jul 2025 The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. DURATION The total length of time it takes to complete the course. 6 months The total length of time it takes to complete the course. Workload The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. Full time 3 days per week 9am - 4pm Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. WHAT YOU'LL PAY Subsidised: $840 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $6,340 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. Class format Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. Teacher-led, Scheduled Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. VIRTUAL CLASS Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). No Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). ASSESSMENT The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. On-Campus The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. TEACHER COMMS The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Less Ask a question Apply

Choose your study location

On Campus

You'll learn face to face with a teacher in a classroom or simulated workplace environment. You may access learning materials through our online learning management system Connect. Learn more
View comparison chart

CAMPUS	STUDY MODE	START DATE	DURATION	WORKLOAD	WHAT YOU'LL PAY
Coomera	On Campus	02 Feb 2026	4 terms	Part time 1 day per week	TAFE at School Full Fee: $3,180 This is the total course fee for High School students also studying at TAFE. More Apply
Coomera On Campus Online Time How much of the course will be delivered online. 0% On Campus Time 100% START DATE The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 02 Feb 2026 The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. DURATION The total length of time it takes to complete the course. 4 terms The total length of time it takes to complete the course. Workload The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. Part time 1 day per week The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. WHAT YOU'LL PAY TAFE at School Full Fee: $3,180 This is the total course fee for High School students also studying at TAFE. Class format Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. Teacher-led, Scheduled Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. VIRTUAL CLASS Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). No Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). ASSESSMENT The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. On-Campus The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. TEACHER COMMS The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Less Ask a question Apply

Studying on campus is a great way to enjoy the benefits of face-to-face education in a way that is far removed from a typical school. No matter which campus you choose, you know that you will be learning in an adult environment where you will be respected and nurtured. Attend a campus to learn face-to-face with a teacher in one of our learning spaces; such as a classroom, workshop, laboratory or simulated environments, or interact with teachers using real-time video or web conference tools. Learn more

Courses delivered on campus may have a combination of online and classroom based learning. Students are expected to undertake additional personal study to complete the course requirements.

Choosing to study a TAFE at School course is a great way to get a vocational qualification while you’re still in high school. You also gain valuable credits towards your QCE, an apprenticeship, a diploma or university.
TAFE at School gives you a taste of what higher education is all about, makes you work-ready, and helps you build practical skills in an adult-learning environment. Successful completion of a TAFE at School qualification gives you direct entry into any of our diploma courses. Learn more

You must be a Year 11 or 12 student enrolled at a participating high school, in some instances Year 10 students may be considered. In addition, the duration of your TAFE at School course cannot be longer than your remaining high school studies. Speak to your high school guidance counsellor or careers advisor for more information.

Course placements are subject to availability.

QCE points: up to 7

Information is current at time of publishing, to confirm the QCE points for your course please speak to your high school guidance counsellor or careers advisor, or visit the Queensland Curriculum & Assessment Authority (QCAA) website.

Download Brochure

Certificate III in Music (CUA30920)

Ask a question

Certificate III in Music

COURSE CODE: CUA30920

Payment Options

How can I pay for this course?

No matter what your circumstances, TAFE Queensland has a payment option to suit you. If you are unsure of what’s right for you, get in touch. We’re here to help.

Payment plan

If you have difficulty paying for the full cost of a course upfront, you may be eligible for a payment plan.

Learn more

Upfront payment

This may be the full fee for the course, or the student contribution amount if you are eligible for a subsidy or concession.

Learn more

Entry requirements

Skills check

You will be invited to complete a Skills Check following your application submission, before enrolling to your studies. This helps you to decide if your course is right for you and allows us to understand your current abilities in English, Maths, as well as using Digital technology.

The recommended benchmark levels for this course are 3 in English, 3 in Maths and 3 in Digital Technology.

Access and instructions on how to complete the Skills Check will be emailed to you once you have submitted your application.

Read the Skills Check FAQs.

Selection criteria

You must have completed year 10 or equivalent.
Enrolment Conditions apply for students under 17 years of age.

North Queensland
Students may be required to attend an informal music audition (either instrumental or vocal) and a personal interview with a member of the teaching staff prior to enrolment.

Greater Brisbane and Gold Coast
You must be able to sing and/or play an instrument to enrol in this program.

Resources required

It is recommended that you have access to a reliable internet connection to access TAFE Queensland's online learning system Connect, and a computer with up-to-date software, including Microsoft Office and Adobe Acrobat Reader. This equipment and software is available for use at all TAFE Queensland locations.

Assessment methods

Skill and knowledge assessments are an essential step in progressing through your course. You may be assessed in a number of ways while you are studying at TAFE Queensland, including observation, written assessment, questioning, portfolios, work samples, third-party feedback, and through recognition of prior learning. Read more about assessment methods.

Pathways

University pathways

If you want to go on to further study at university, TAFE Queensland has a pathway option to get you there. In many cases, completing one of our diplomas may give you a full year of credit towards a degree with one of our partner universities.

Learn more about University Pathways

How to apply

Direct application

If you're ready to get started, simply hit the Apply Now button on your preferred course information page and get your application underway online.

Course disclaimer

All information was accurate at time of publication, however TAFE policies, tuition fees, available subsidies, and course content is subject to change without notice. Course commencement is dependent on sufficient enrolment numbers. Timetable information is subject to change prior to commencement and/or during the duration of your course.

Recognition of prior learning (RPL) and credit transfers

Fast track your way to a formal qualification by earning credit for the things you already know. We can assess your skills, directly apply credits from previous successful study, and give you advanced standing in your course.

Learn more

Related courses