Programmes

Diploma

Music

Unleash your musicality and become an innovative musician in an evolving and contemporary industry.

Contemporary in its content and approach, the Diploma in Music programme embraces pre-eminent contemporary musical styles of our time. The hands-on curriculum prepares you for entry into the music industry in Singapore and the region. You will develop instrumental or vocal technique; study music theory, sight-reading, aural skills, music production, composition and arranging, and receive regular performance opportunities.

The programme aims to develop you as a successful contemporary musician who can sight-read, perform a diverse repertoire, and respond confidently to various professional music circumstances. A typical week involves you rehearsing and performing in different ensembles, receiving one-to-one lessons on your chosen instrument or voice, studying aural skills and theory of music, learning about music production and technology, and being mentored by some of the most experienced and highly qualified musicians and academics in the region.

The comprehensive education you receive will develop your musical identity and skills needed to be a successful modern musician and easily navigate the industry.

Through a progressive structure of modules and assessments benchmarked with global industry standards, you will be taken step-by-step through the building blocks of musicianship and performance to become a confident entertainment industry member. The programme will also involve critical thinking classes, community engagement, playing to the broader public and industry internships.

Why apply

Industry professionals: Learn from working musicians and academics who bring real-world experiences and industry knowledge into the classroom.

Cross-collaboration: Work productively with others through participation in ensembles and public performances in the College’s venues and in an atmosphere of musical cooperation.

Artistic growth: Develop a critical understanding of the arts and musical criteria, and master your own style while discovering others.

PROGRAMME DETAILS

dip-music
Duration

3 years

Mode

Full-time

Programme structure
Year 1

Craft, Techniques and Technologies 1 (30 credits)
This module may include the following components:

  • Instrumental Studies 1
  • Music Skills 1
  • Rhythm Studies 1
  • Music Production 1

Studio 1 (15 credits)
This module may include the following components:

  • Ensemble Rehearsal 1
  • Performance Workshop 1
  • Sight-Reading Ensemble 1

Critical Thinking Skills A (15 credits)

Craft, Techniques and Technologies 2 (30 credits)
This module may include the following components:

  • Instrumental Studies 2
  • Music Skills 2
  • Rhythm Studies 2
  • Music Production 2

Studio 2 (15 credits)
This module may include the following components:

  • Ensemble Rehearsal 2
  • Performance Workshop 2
  • Sight-Reading 2

World of Ideas and Imagination (15 credits)

Year 2

Craft, Techniques and Technologies 3 (15 credits)
This module may include the following components:

  • Instrumental Mentorship
  • Music Skills 3

Studio 3 (30 credits)
This module may include the following components:

  • Ensemble Rehearsal 3
  • Performance Workshop 3
  • Improvisation 1

Critical Thinking Skills B (15 credits)

Cross-disciplinary Studio (30 credits)
This module may include the following components:

  • Cross-Disciplinary Mentorship
  • Cross-Disciplinary Ensemble Workshop

Electives (15 credits)

Professional Practice and Careers (15 credits)

Year 3*

Engaging Communities (15 credits)

Internship (45 credits)

Communication and Public Presentation Skills (15 credits)

Final Project (45 credits)
This module may include the following components:

  • Final Project Mentorship
  • Final Project Ensemble Workshop
  • Contemporary Music in Context

*Modules in Level 3 may be offered in either semester or in both semesters. Your Programme Leader will advise you on the modules to be taken before the start of each semester. You will need to take modules equivalent to 60 credits in each semester.

More Information

Modes of assessment
  • Practical Portfolio
  • Creative Process Journal
  • Technical Folder
  • Journal
  • Portfolio (Pass/Fail)
Curriculum framework

The LASALLE Diploma framework is anchored in a professional and self-directed approach, with the aim of nurturing highly-engaged, self-assured student learners of the 21st century.

The Diploma framework has a modular structure which involves the following core modules:

Studio
Studio modules primarily anchor you to a particular field/discipline of study. All Studio modules assess you in writing and ensure adequate historical and theoretical contextualisation are embedded.

Studio modules are sites of creative practice with a focus and approach to allow you to discover, investigate and apply ideas, methods and materials.

The Cross-Disciplinary Studio module focuses on an out-of-the-box learning environment for you to apply your critical thinking skills and develop cross-disciplinary works in the studio.

The Final Project culminates in a major studio work which encourages you to demonstrate your artistic practice, conceptual and technical rigour.

Craft, Techniques and Technologies
The Craft, Techniques and Technologies modules prepare you to appreciate and develop requisite technical skills for your creative work.

The particular emphasis is on honing craft, building strong technique and fluid engagement with digital/technological skills. These will provide you with the necessary 21st century skills to apply to your studio/creative practice.

Critical Thinking Skills, World of Imagination and electives
This set of modules establishes different modes of thinking and creative engagement in an arts school environment.

It aims to expose you to a diversity of learning methods, critical inquiry and approaches to express yourself.

It is envisaged that this approach sets the tone for how you as a LASALLE student are distinctive in your approach to learning and ultimately as a professional.

Allowing the 21st century learner to be self-reflexive, independent and inquisitive is vital. Building on your critical thinking modules, electives will be offered in Year 2 to facilitate you to work in areas outside of your core subjects.

Community Engagement and professional skills
You will undertake a Community Engagement module and be exposed to ways in which the community of your interest can be a source of long-term participation, personal fulfilment and employment, following which you will go on to pursue industry placement opportunities in a discipline-specific field.

Students can opt to do one big placement or two to three short placements. Overseas stints are encouraged. The internship module is accompanied by a Professional Practice and Careers module which gives you the key tools to develop your job preparedness. Here you will be taught about emerging fields, how to be self-employed and network in the sector. Industry professionals and alumni will be invited to mentor you and your peers.

You will also be taught Communications and Presentation Skills. Here, clear and confident public speaking and presentation skills are introduced to prepare you to develop and articulate your brand, articulate an artist statement, develop public speaking skills and develop your social media profile as a professional.

Overall, the Diploma framework will enhance the job preparedness of Diploma graduates through greater opportunities for self-directed and cross-disciplinary learning in addition to dedicated modules to help them hone their career skills.

Grading system and classification of awards

LASALLE uses a 5–point Grade Point Average (GPA) system, which will be applicable to all students admitted to Year 1 with effect from AY2024/25, to track students’ academic progress throughout their studies.

Students receive letter grades for each module taken. Each grade corresponds to a grade point as shown below:

Letter grade Grade point
A+. 5.0
A   5.0
A-  4.5
B+  4.0
B   3.5
B-  3.0
C+  2.5
C   2.0
D+  1.5
D   1.0
F   0.0

The Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) represents the grade point average of all modules attempted by the student. A minimum CGPA of 2.00 is required for graduation.

The computation of CGPA is as follows:

CGPA =
Sum (module grade point x module credits assigned to module) Sum (module credits assigned to all modules used in calculating the numerator)

All modules, including repeat attempts, are included in the computation of the CGPA with the exception of modules that are exempted or where students were absent with valid reasons.

The classification of award and corresponding CGPA requirement are as follows:

CGPA range Classification of award
4.00 – 5.00 Diploma with Distinction
2.00 – 3.99 Diploma
Sustainability and care

LASALLE recognises the important role of artists and designers in creating a sustainable and caring world. The curriculum provides opportunities for students to identify and explore issues around sustainability (from ecology and global climate change to the sustainability of their own creative practices and wider cultural communities) and care (for the well-being and advancement of oneself and others).

The College actively encourages students to engage with and investigate these crucial contemporary issues as part of their studies, including through their projects, and critical and creative outputs. Through interdisciplinary learning and strong engagement with these topics, the aim is to empower students to lead the way towards sustainable practices and caring communities within the cultural and creative industries.

Materials

Basic materials for learning are provided by the College.

As a developing artist, you are required to have certain items that are personal to you and cannot be shared. Such items include books, dance shoes, rehearsal clothes, safety boots, portable musical instruments, paints, canvas, basic tools, design software, cameras, etc., that will support you through your three-year learning journey. The College does not encourage the purchase of extravagant or costly materials or equipment. Our lecturers can provide you with affordable suggestions.

You are also encouraged to have your own laptop for education. If you do not own one, computer labs are available on campus with requisite software for you to undertake your work.

There may be opportunities for you to undertake extra-curricular study trips to enhance your overall learning. Trips are not compulsory and may incur additional costs.

Career paths

Music performer, music producer, composer, songwriter, music arranger, music director, educator, voice talent or vocal coach.

HighLights

  • Awards
  • News & Events
  • Star Alumni
  • Features
  • Industry Collaborations
  • Community Projects
  • Showcase
Loading

Academics

Tap into the illustrious minds of our faculty members who are movers and shakers in their own disciplines. They will impart, challenge and encourage, as they share their invaluable expertise and experiences with you.

Dean, Faculty of Performing Arts
Programme Leader, Diploma in Music
Senior Lecturer, Music
Senior Lecturer, Music
Lecturer, Music
Lecturer, Music
Lecturer, Music
Lecturer, Music
Loading

Admission Information

Important Dates

Start of semester: Aug 2024
Application opens: 2 Oct 2023

Applications will close once the programme seats have been filled up.

Early Admissions Exercise for August 2025 intake
The Early Admission Exercise (EAE) is an aptitude-based admissions exercise open to graduating O-Level students, final-year Nitec and Higher Nitec students from the Institute of Technical Education and graduating Integrated Programme (IP) / International Baccalaureate (IB) Year 4 students. 

This exercise allows students to apply for and receive conditional offers for admission to LASALLE prior to receiving their final grades.

Application period: 1 – 24 May 2024.

Application process:

  • Submit an online application here.
  • Upon completing your online application and application fee payment, proceed to upload your supporting documents after 1 to 2 working days.
  • To access the supporting documents checklist, click here.

Applicants will be notified of their application outcome via email by July 2024. Successful applicants should confirm acceptance of their offers by the stipulated deadline. Applicants who accept their offers at this stage will be guaranteed a place, as long as they meet the criteria stated under entry requirements for each programme.

For Diploma in Animation, Diploma Audio Production, Diploma in Broadcast Media and Diploma in Music:
Please refer to the section ‘Admission Information’ under each programme for more information about the portfolio/audition files guidelines.

For all other Diploma programmes:
Workshops will be conducted between 31 May – 7 June 2024. More details will be provided once we have received your application.

Entry requirements

ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS

Singapore
  • Singapore
  • International
Qualifications Remarks

 

The qualifications listed below are common entry qualifications submitted by applicants.

  • Singapore-Cambridge GCE O-Level with a pass in English at Grade C6 or better, and an aggregate score of 25 points or better in four other GCE O-Level subjects
  • GCSE/IGCSE (five subject passes, including English, at Grade 9-4)
  • Full-time Higher Nitec/Nitec
  • Singapore Integrated Programme (successfully completed Year 4 or higher)
Entry into IELTS Academic TOEFL (iBT) PTE Academic Duolingo English Test
Diploma 5.5 71 42 95

ADMISSIONS TEST/PORTFOLIO REQUIREMENTS/AUDITION REQUIREMENTS

To determine your suitability for the programme, you will need to submit an audition recording to help us understand your technical and musical abilities.

Audition recording
You will need to submit a video recording of three contrasting pieces of music in any style that will demonstrate your technical and musical abilities most effectively.

Three contrasting pieces may refer to different tempos (e.g. ballad, medium tempo, fast tempo), different styles (e.g. pop, jazz, funk), different genres in one style (e.g. rock ballad, rock-pop, hard rock), different meters (e.g. 4/4, 3/4, 6/8), different periods (e.g. Baroque, Classical, Romantic), or any characteristic that renders the pieces contrasting.

In your video(s), you must perform each of the three pieces in its entirety, not just sections.

  • For voice auditions, vocal recordings must have an accompaniment. You can either sing your tunes with a backing track, sing on top of the original recording, or you can accompany yourself with a guitar or piano or another musician can accompany you. You must not perform or submit an a cappella (without accompaniment) vocal recording.
  • For instrumental auditions, you can either perform your tunes with a backing track or on top of the original recording. Only guitarists and pianists can record one solo piece, as long as it is a solo piece arrangement. For classical pianists, each movement will be considered as one piece in case of performing a multi-movement work.

Your video recordings must clearly show your face, and in the case of instrumentalists, you must also show your hands while playing as best as possible. Please refrain from using any special effects or filters that might blur your face or hands or submitting social media videos (like TikTok).

Additional requirement

Previous qualifications in music theory or practical exams are preferred but not a requirement for entry into the programme as you will be judged solely on the quality of your submitted audition recordings.

However, you are required to complete an online music theory and aural test set by the School of Contemporary Music. You will be notified of the date and time.

If we wish to know more about your audition recording, we will arrange for a discussion with you.

Fees
Components

Tuition Fees

DIPLOMA TUITION FEES FOR AUGUST 2024 INTAKE (PER ANNUM FEES)

FUNDED (SUBSIDISED FEES) NON-FUNDED (FULL FEES)
Singaporeans (aged below 40 years) Singaporeans (aged 40 years and above) Singapore PR International Singaporeans Singapore PR International
S$5,440 S$3,627 S$7,090* S$10,740* S$19,936 S$22,193 S$24,973

* Singapore PRs and International students who choose to take up the Tuition Grant (TG) will need to make an online application and then sign the TG Deed with the Government of Singapore. Under the terms of the TG Deed, you will be required to work for a Singapore entity for a period of three years upon graduation. For more information, visit tgonline.moe.gov.sg.

 

NOTE
  • Funded/subsidised fees for Singaporeans and Singapore PR qualify for GST subsidy from MOE, all other fees include 9% GST in 2024.
  • Fees are due on the first day of each semester.
  • Fees are subject to change.
  • Correct as of August 2023.
 

Application Fees

A non-refundable application fee (inclusive of GST*) is chargeable per application. Application is only complete upon receipt of your application fee and all necessary documents. Please ensure your application fee is paid and documents are uploaded after you have received an email that your applicant profile has been created. LASALLE reserves the right to withdraw the applicant if the application fee remains unpaid and documents are not received by the due date.

* GST is at 8% from 2023 and 9% from 2024.

Singaporean / Singapore Permanent Resident applicants S$60
International applicants S$120
 

ACCEPTED MODES OF PAYMENT

All payment to LASALLE must be made in Singapore Dollar. In line with the Singapore government's move towards a cashless society, online payments are strongly encouraged. Below are the payment modes acceptable by LASALLE.

Payment method Payment mode
A. Online payment
  • Flywire
  • iBanking
  • PayNow/DBS Paylah!
B. SAM (kiosk, web or mobile)/Singapore Post
  • Visa
  • MasterCard
  • AMEX
  • NETS
 

Additional Costs

Basic materials for learning are provided by the College.

As a developing artist, you are required to have certain items that are personal to you and cannot be shared. Such items include books, dance shoes, rehearsal clothes, safety boots, portable musical instruments, paints, canvas, basic tools, design software, cameras, etc., that will support you through your three-year learning journey. The College does not encourage the purchase of extravagant or costly materials or equipment. Our lecturers can provide you with affordable suggestions.

You are also encouraged to have your own laptop for education. If you do not own one, computer labs are available on campus with requisite software for you to undertake your work.

There may be opportunities for you to undertake extra-curricular study trips to enhance your overall learning. Trips are not compulsory and may incur additional costs.

 

MORE INFORMATION

Medical Insurance Scheme

All full-time students of LASALLE are required to be covered under the Medical Insurance Scheme (MIS). The annual coverage of S$20,000 includes school-related activities throughout the programme duration.

The current premium rate is $29.70 (inclusive of 8% GST) payable each semester. This premium rate is subject to change based on the prevailing premiums charged by the insurer and prevailing GST rate.

Scholarships & financial support

SCHOLARSHIPS

In recognition of outstanding academic excellence, leadership potential, and a passion for creativity and innovation, LASALLE offers a variety of scholarships to new and current students. 

Application dates for scholarships will be reflected in the various scholarship pages. Other externally sponsored scholarships are also available to students. Enquiries and applications may be directed to the respective organisations. 

Please note that miscellaneous fees are not covered by scholarships, bursaries or the Mendaki Tertiary Tuition Fee Subsidy (TTFS).

View scholarships offered

FINANCIAL SUPPORT

We are committed to providing a quality education for all our students, and believe that no deserving student should be denied admission because of financial difficulty. 

A range of financial assistance schemes, grants and loans are made available to help meet a portion of the educational expenses of students.

Application dates for financial assistance will be reflected in the various bursary pages.

Please note that miscellaneous fees are not covered by scholarships, bursaries or the Mendaki Tertiary Tuition Fee Subsidy (TTFS).

View bursaries offered

GOVERNMENT LOAN SCHEME

Students who are Singapore Citizens or Singapore Permanent Residents and on Tuition Grant are eligible to apply for Tuition Fee Loan of up to 90% (degree) or 75% (diploma) of the programme fees. Application opens in October each year. Please contact the Division of Finance (finance@lasalle.edu.sg) for more details.

MORE INFORMATION

Frequently Asked Questions

Download Prospectus

Undergraduate prospectus AY2023/24
Download PDF
Undergraduate Chinese prospectus AY2023/24
Download PDF
Loading

Take the next exhilarating step with our Diploma in Music Programme.