There are two major areas of focus in the honours year in Music - a study of research methodology as it relates to music, and the researching and writing a thesis of about 15,000 words. The Honours program in Music enables students to pursue their particular interests while adding to their overall body of knowledge acquired through their undergraduate study, and also serves as valuable preparation for participation in further research. The main aims of the Honours year are: To enable students with an adequate background in Music to pursue further study in one specialist area in more depth than is possible with a pass degree To enhance students' capacity for independent research and to acquire research skills appropriate to their area of specialisation. To train to a standard sufficient for enrolment in postgraduate research degrees, and for a specialist career. Achievement of first class or IIA honours allows direct entry to a PhD program.

An Honours year in Music focuses on developing and consolidating the knowledge and skills acquired during undergraduate study, with particular emphasis on utilising those skills in a sustained and purposeful way by conducting independent research. Apart from content knowledge, employers and professionals value both the reliability and capacity for independent work, and the skill at writing substantial reports which are demonstrated by successful completion of Honours.