Typically, music programs concentrate on the historical, theoretical and technical aspects of music and performance. An interdisciplinary field, music is as much for the ambitious academic as it is for the aspiring professional musician.

Due to the numerous countries within Oceania, work occasions and work permit laws differ greatly, with data on opportunities in some nations being limited. Australia and New Zealand are the most advanced countries in the area.

Requirements for the PhD program often involve the student having already obtained a Master’s degree. Additionally, a thesis or dissertation primarily consisting of original academic research must be submitted. In some countries, this work may even need to be defended in front of a panel.