Back To Main Menu
Overview Modules Entry Requirements Fees How to Apply
Overview Students' Work Modules Entry Requirements Fees How to Apply
Duration: 3 Years
Mode: Full-time

Step Up and Train the Next Generation of Musicians

Teaching music to vastly diverse learners is both the sharing of knowledge and a performance in itself. The NAFA Diploma in Music Teaching supports aspiring music educators in achieving this with an all-rounded curriculum focusing on both music and education.

Emphasis on developing technical competence, stylistic awareness and creativity in performance or composition, is met with an equal focus on acquiring pedagogical skills and strategies to teach.

You can expect a rigorous broad-based and practice-led curriculum with an abundance of exposure to industry projects, teaching practice and industrial attachments.

If you wish to further your career as a Ministry of Education (MOE) teacher, you may apply to the MOE when you are in Year 1 of your diploma programme. Find out more about the Art and Music Teacher Training Sponsorship here. Upon completion of your diploma programme at NAFA, you will continue with a 2-year Diploma in Education at the National Institute of Education (NIE) at Nanyang Technological University to acquire further skills in classroom management and teaching strategies. 


Learn about Both Music and Teaching

Learn what it means to be both a musician and an educator with a curriculum focused on building strong foundational skills in performing, as well as the pedagogical skills and strategies to teach.

Understand the Mind of a Musician

Gain insights to what musicians need—from ways to protect their health and well-being, to the range of digital and job search skills required to thrive in their careers—through a range of carefully curated modules and activities offered both at NAFA and at the National Institute of Education (NIE).

Future-proof Your Skills

Core units in contextual studies, as well as aural and musicianship classes will add depth to your understanding of music, and equip you with skills in communication, collaboration, problem solving and more, to enhance your overall employability.







More Information
Graduation Requirements
Diploma Programmes (AY2025 Intake and After)
In order to graduate from a diploma programme, you are required to attain at least 360 credits (including exempted credits and credits for non-graded modules, but excluding credits associated with repeated attempts), and pass all prescribed core and elective requirements with a minimum Grade D for all modules.
Mode of Instruction
Lessons may be delivered face-to-face on campus or facilitated online. Lecturers employ a variety of teaching strategies and methods according to the needs of each module. Students are expected to attend every lesson as scheduled, either in the form of lectures, tutorials, discussions, demonstrations, case studies, practical exercises, field activities, classroom practice or e-learning.
Assessment Methods
Each module is assessed by either class participation, written assignments, practical performances, portfolio presentations, projects, examinations, or any of these combinations. Assessment methods may vary according to individual module requirements.
Career Pathways

Upon the completion of this programme, dynamic careers in the creative industries await:

  • Administrator for Music School
  • Band Director
  • Choral Director
  • Collaborative Musician
  • Composer/Arranger
  • Conductor
  • Music Reviewer
  • Music Teacher
  • Music Workshop Facilitator
  • Music Producer/Presenter
  • Orchestral Player
  • Solo or Ensemble Performer

Modules

The following programme modules are applicable to students enrolled in August 2025 and after. NAFA students enrolled in AY2024/2025 and earlier are to refer to the Diploma Programme and Module Information Booklet on the Student Portal for the programme modules in your respective years of enrolment.

Type Title Year & Semester Credits
Academy Core

Introduction to Southeast Asian Arts

The Introduction to Southeast Asian Arts module introduces facets of the artistic traditions of mainland and maritime Southeast Asia from the kingdom to the present. The module approaches Southeast Asia's rich heritage thematically, encouraging interdisciplinary understanding between intersecting geographies and narratives. It offers insights departing from different perspectives and vantages - the evolving role in defining aesthetics, cultural belonging, polities, and intercultural exchanges in the ongoing multiplicities of the region.
Year 1 Semester 1 10
School Core

Pedagogy Studio 1A

In this module, students will be introduced to a diverse range of studies and repertoire with the purpose of developing proficiency and understanding of technical, musical, and pedagogical aspects within their primary area of study.

Students will work on scales, arpeggios, etudes, and carefully selected repertoire, fostering essential skills in instrumental performance and strengthening their technical proficiency. To enhance these efforts, tailored classes and rehearsals will deepen their comprehension of pedagogical principles, enriching their overall musical education.

In addition to instrumental instruction, students will actively participate in performance classes, learning to critique, providing constructive feedback. Participation in ensembles and seminars, structured around faculty guidance, will serve as platforms to apply acquired knowledge, demonstrating effective communication through ensemble performances, collaborative projects, and presentations.

The diverse components in this module aim to equip students with critical skills and knowledge, preparing them for roles as musicians and/or music educators. Furthermore, the module prioritizes musicians’ well-being by offering curated workshops and lectures focused on fostering awareness about health-related aspects within the music community.
Year 1 Semester 1 30
School Core

Integrated Practitioner 1A

In this module, students are introduced to a range of academic musical studies to be aligned with practical skills learnt, ensuring the holistic growth of a student musician through integrated studies and application.

Students will learn basic theoretical knowledge and aural skills, acquire broad and informed knowledge of selected works and composers from the Age of Common Practice.

Through the skills acquired in this module, students will learn to contextualise the repertoire learnt by demonstrating historical and theoretical understanding in their analyses of the works.
Year 1 Semester 1 20
Faculty Core

Professional Development Plan I

In this module, students are introduced to the foundational skills and knowledge essential for a successful career in the performing arts, encompassing dance, theatre, and music. You will learn about the multifaceted nature of the performing arts industry, including historical development, career paths, and the integration of multidisciplinary collaboration. The module aims to equip you with the tools necessary for crafting a realistic and personalized career plan, enhancing your professional skills such as communication, CV writing, and interview techniques, as well as fostering an understanding of personal branding and digital literacy in the modern arts landscape.
Year 1 Semester 2 10
School Core

Pedagogy Studio 1B

In this module, students continue to work on a diverse range of studies and repertoire with the purpose of developing proficiency and understanding of technical, musical, and pedagogical aspects within their primary area of study.

Students will work on scales, arpeggios, etudes, and carefully selected repertoire, fostering essential skills in instrumental performance and strengthening their technical proficiency. To enhance these efforts, tailored classes and rehearsals will deepen their comprehension of pedagogical principles, enriching their overall musical education.

In addition to instrumental instruction, students will actively participate in performance classes, learning to critique, providing constructive feedback. Participation in ensembles and seminars, structured around faculty guidance, will serve as platforms to apply acquired knowledge, demonstrating effective communication through ensemble performances, collaborative projects, and presentations.

The diverse components in this module aim to equip students with critical skills and knowledge, preparing them for roles as musicians and/or music educators. Furthermore, the module prioritizes musicians’ well-being by offering curated workshops and lectures focused on fostering awareness about health-related aspects within the music community.
Year 1 Semester 2 30
School Core

Integrated Practitioner 1B

In this module, students continue to be introduced to a range of academic musical studies to be aligned with practical skills learnt, ensuring the holistic growth of a student musician through integrated studies and application.

Students will build on basic theoretical knowledge and aural skills, acquire broad and informed knowledge of selected works and composers from the Age of Common Practice.

Through the skills acquired in this module, students will learn to contextualise the repertoire learnt by demonstrating historical and theoretical understanding in the analyses of the works.
Year 1 Semester 2 20
Academy Core

Introduction to Interdisciplinary Arts Practice

The Introduction to Interdisciplinary Arts Practice module introduces interdisciplinarity as an approach to learning. The module provides the opportunity to place and activate respective artistic disciplines in the context of a collaborative creation. It is a platform for appreciating different perspectives, analysing possible connections, and engaging in collective exploration to gain new insights.
Year 2 Semester 1 (or Year 2 Semester 2) 10
School Core

Pedagogy Studio 2A

In this module, students continue to work on a diverse range of studies and repertoire with the purpose of developing proficiency and understanding of technical, musical, and pedagogical aspects within their primary area of study. This module builds upon the skills acquired in the preceding Pedagogy Studio 1A and 1B modules.

Students will work on etudes, and carefully selected repertoire, fostering essential skills in instrumental performance and strengthening their technical proficiency. To enhance these efforts, tailored classes and rehearsals will deepen their comprehension of pedagogical principles, enriching their overall musical education.

In addition to instrumental instruction, students will actively participate in performance classes, learning to critique, providing constructive feedback. Participation in ensembles and seminars, structured around faculty guidance, will serve as platforms to apply acquired knowledge, demonstrating effective communication through ensemble performances, collaborative projects, and presentations.

The diverse components in this module aim to equip students with critical skills and knowledge, preparing them for roles as musicians and/or music educators. Furthermore through curated lectures and project work, the module introduces students to digital skills, ensuring career-readiness.
Year 2 Semester 1 30
School Core

Integrated Practitioner 2A

In this module, students continue to build on knowledge acquired in Integrated Practitioner 1A and 1B. Students will continue to be introduced to a range of academic musical studies to be aligned with practical skills learnt, ensuring the holistic growth of a student musician through integrated studies and application.

Students will build on prior theoretical knowledge and aural skills, acquire broad and informed knowledge of selected works and composers from the Age of Common Practice.

Through the skills acquired in this module, students will learn to contextualise the repertoire learnt by demonstrating historical and theoretical understanding in the analyses of the works.
Year 2 Semester 1 20
Faculty Core

Professional Development Plan 2

In this module, you are introduced to a comprehensive range of professional skills and digital tools essential for a successful career in the performing arts (Dance, Music, and Theatre). You will learn how to effectively showcase your talents through the creation of ePortfolios, develop compelling curriculum vitae (CV) and cover letters, and enhance your interview skills. The module is designed to expand your career opportunities beyond traditional performing roles, highlighting the transferability of your artistic skills to a variety of professional contexts. By the end of this module, you will be equipped with the knowledge and tools to present yourself effectively to potential employers and collaborators, opening doors to diverse career paths within and outside the performing arts sector.
Year 2 Semester 2 10
School Core

Pedagogy Studio 2B

In this module, students continue to work on a diverse range of studies and repertoire with the purpose of developing proficiency and understanding of technical, musical, and pedagogical aspects within their primary area of study. This module builds upon the skills acquired in the preceding Pedagogy Studio 1A, 1B and 2A modules.

Students will work on carefully selected repertoire, with key focus on understanding instrumental technique requirements and stylistic practices. To enhance these efforts, tailored classes and rehearsals will deepen their comprehension of pedagogical principles, enriching their overall musical education.
In addition to instrumental instruction, students will actively participate in performance classes, learning to critique, providing constructive feedback. Participation in ensembles and seminars, structured around faculty guidance, will serve as platforms to apply acquired knowledge, demonstrating effective communication through ensemble performances, collaborative projects, and presentations.

The diverse components in this module aim to equip students with critical skills and knowledge, preparing them for roles as musicians and/or music educators. Furthermore through curated lectures and project work, the module further develops students’ digital skills as they build their portfolio, ensuring career-readiness.
Year 2 Semester 2 30
School Core

Integrated Practitioner 2B

In this module, students continue to build on knowledge acquired in Integrated Practitioner 2A. Students will continue to be introduced to a range of academic musical studies to be aligned with practical skills learnt; ensuring the holistic growth of a student musician through integrated studies and application.

Students will build on prior theoretical knowledge and aural skills, acquire broad and informed knowledge of selected works and composers from the Age of Common Practice.

Through the skills acquired in this module, students will learn to contextualise the repertoire learnt by demonstrating historical and theoretical understanding in the analyses of the works.
Year 2 Semester 2 20
Elective

Elective

Electives are classes that students must take in addition to the core curriculum. Students may choose from a list of 40+ modules to explore personal interests, delve into specialised subjects, or in areas that align with their career goals or passions.
Year 2 Semester 2 10
School Core

Pedagogy Studio 3A

In this module, students continue to work on a diverse range of repertoire with the purpose of strengthening proficiency and understanding of technical, musical, and pedagogical aspects explored in previous semesters.

Students will work on carefully selected repertoire, with key focus on understanding instrumental technique requirements and stylistic practices. To enhance these efforts, tailored classes and rehearsals will deepen their comprehension of pedagogical principles, enriching their overall musical education.

In addition to instrumental instruction, students will actively participate in performance classes, learning to critique, providing constructive feedback. Participation in ensembles and seminars, structured around faculty guidance, will serve as platforms to apply acquired knowledge, demonstrating effective communication through ensemble performances, collaborative projects, and presentations.

The diverse components in this module aim to equip students with critical skills and knowledge, preparing them for roles as musicians and/or music educators. Furthermore, the module continues to develop students’ digital skills as they expand their portfolio, ensuring career-readiness.
Year 3 Semester 1 30
School Core

Integrated Practitioner 3A

In this module, students continue to build on knowledge acquired in previous Integrated Practitioner modules. Students will continue to work through a range of academic musical studies to be aligned with practical skills learnt, ensuring the holistic growth of a student musician through integrated studies and application.

Students will further expand on their theoretical knowledge and aural skills, acquire broad and informed knowledge of selected works and composers from the Age of Common Practice.

By completing this module, students will be able to demonstrate their abilities as integrated practitioners through historical and theoretical understanding of works analysed.
Year 3 Semester 1 10
Elective

Elective

Electives are classes that students must take in addition to the core curriculum. Students may choose from a list of 40+ modules to explore personal interests, delve into specialised subjects, or in areas that align with their career goals or passions.
Year 3 Semester 1 20
School Core

Pedagogy Studio 3B

In this module, students will work on applying the skills acquired over the semesters as they prepare the repertoire to be presented in their graduating recital.

Students will work on carefully selected repertoire, with key focus on understanding instrumental technique requirements and stylistic practices. To enhance these efforts, tailored classes and rehearsals will deepen their comprehension of pedagogical principles, enriching their overall musical education.

In addition to instrumental instruction, students will actively participate in performance classes, learning to critique, providing constructive feedback. Participation in ensembles and seminars, structured around faculty guidance, will serve as platforms to apply acquired knowledge, demonstrating effective communication through ensemble performances, collaborative projects, and presentations.

The diverse components in this module aim to equip students with critical skills and knowledge, preparing them for roles as musicians and/or music educators. Furthermore, the module develops students’ digital skills as they build their portfolio, ensuring career-readiness.
Year 2 Semester 2 30
Faculty Core

Industry-Based Learning

You will learn to immerse yourself in the dance or a related industry in an authentic setting through this module. You will be exposed to the industry/work environment and develop professional skill sets and the appropriate work etiquette. You will learn to consolidate and apply discipline-specific knowledge and skills in an authentic industry/work situation, as well as establish networks and connections with the industry partners and potential employers.

Industry-based learning also provides the opportunity for industry partners to benefit from student talent, skills, knowledge, and perspectives, as well as to play a role in students’ professional development.
Year 3 Semester 2 20
Elective

Elective

Electives are classes that students must take in addition to the core curriculum. Students may choose from a list of 40+ modules to explore personal interests, delve into specialised subjects, or in areas that align with their career goals or passions.
Year 3 Semester 2 10
Show More

entry requirements

NAFA hopes to attract applicants with the potential to become excellent arts practitioners. Applicants are selected by merit, based on the following criteria:

  • Audition/Interview Requirements
  • Educational Qualification
  • English Language Proficiency
  • Special Factor

Selection is competitive and is subject to the availability of places. However, the Academy may give consideration to talented applicants who excel in Artistic Talent and Creativity, but have not fully met the education qualification stated.


Audition

  1. Applicants are required to attend an audition of approximately 15 minutes on the intended principal study.

  2. The list of principal study instruments is as follows:

    Keyboard Studies Piano
    Strings Studies Violin, Viola, Cello, Double Bass
    Harp
    Winds Studies Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, Saxophone, Bassoon
    Horn, Trumpet, Trombone. Euphonium, Tuba
    Percussion Studies Percussion
    (applicants must prepare Snare Drum, Mallets, and Timpani for audition)
    Chinese Instrumental Studies Gaohu, Erhu,
    Liuqin, Pipa, Ruan
    Guqin, Sanxian
    Yangqin
    Guzheng
    Dizi, Sheng, Suona, Guanzi
    Vocal Studies Voice (Classical)
    Composition Studies Composition (Diploma in Music ONLY)

  3. The audition consists of the following:

    • Performance* of two contrasting works of the applicant’s choice.

      • Pieces by different composers

      • Pieces of different style, character, and technique

      • Pieces for consideration:

        • Instrumentalist - Sonata, Concerto, Etude, Solo Works

        • Vocalist – Operatic genres, Arias, well-established musical genre

      • Popular music genre will not be considered, such as Pop music, Pop songs.

    • Reviewing of composition portfolio (only for composition applicants. See Composition Portfolio)

    • Sight-reading

    • Aural awareness

    • Music theory**

    • Short interview with the audition panel about the applicant’s musical experiences, interests and ambitions for future studies and career

    *Applicants (except composition applicants) are encouraged to perform with an accompanist if the pieces include accompaniment. A list of accompanists and their details are available to applicants after application and they are required to make arrangements with the accompanists directly for practice sessions and payment. Applicants who are unable to perform with an accompanist, may perform with a background track using their own device that can be connected to the venue speaker via Bluetooth.

    **The music theory test (approximately 60 minutes) will test applicants in various areas at a level similar to ABRSM Grade V.

    Applicants will be exempted from the music theory test if they present any of the following documentary evidence:

    • ABRSM Grade V Music Theory or its equivalent
    • Pass in GCE ‘O’ Level or GCE ‘A’ Level Music
    • Pass in SOTA Music Year 4 and above
    • • Pass in Music Theory subject in a specialist music school

  4. All instrumentalists except percussionists and pianists are required to bring their principal study instrument for the audition. Applicants are encouraged to provide a set of music scores of their pieces for the audition panel.

  5. Applicants are not allowed to bring a page-turner, a teacher or a translator to the audition. The only people in the audition room will be the applicant, the accompanist and the audition panel.

  6. As our programmes are taught in English, all applicants will be expected to communicate in English at the audition.

  7. Applicants are not required to submit the audition programme in advance. The audition panel reserves the right to hear only part of the programme overall.

Live auditions in Singapore
Live auditions in Singapore are usually held bimonthly.

Applicants will be notified of the exact date and time via email one week before the audition.

Audition Date
8 – 10 January 2025
3 – 7 March 2025
28 April – 2 May 2025

Live auditions in China

Applicants residing overseas who wish to attend the live auditions in China are to inform Student Admissions Office via email at least two weeks prior to the audition.

Audition Date
16 – 17 November 2024
8 – 15 March 2025


Online Audition
Though live auditions are preferred, applicants residing overseas who are unable to attend a live audition may request to submit a video recording for their audition at least 2 weeks before the scheduled audition. Applicants are to inform Student Admissions Office in advance if they wish to attend an online audition. Following a video pre-screening, shortlisted candidates will be invited to an online audition via Zoom, facilitated by the Student Admissions Office. During the audition, applicants will undergo assessments of sight-reading and aural awareness as well.

Guidelines for Video Recording:
  • Performance of the two contrasting pieces is to be recorded live in one single take.

  • The recording should be a clear and accurate representation of the playing.

  • Editing of the audio/video of the recording is strictly prohibited.

  • The camera must be stationary for the performance of each work.

  • The video should show the performer in full body if possible.

  • The video is to be recorded no more than six months prior to the submission date.

  • Concert and competition recordings are not allowed.

  • The video recording files must be named with the title of the piece
Minimum Educational Qualifications Required
  • Singapore-Cambridge GCE ‘O’ Level: Aggregate score of 25 points or better in 4 GCE ‘O’ Level subjects, excluding English.
    Applicants who are active in their Secondary Schools’ Co-curricular Activities (CCA) may gain up to 2 CCA points. The CCA points can be used to improve their EQ aggregate score for admission consideration.
    Types of bonus points No. of bonus points awarded
    Grades of A1–A2 2 points
    Grades of B3–C6 1 point
  • Singapore Integrated Programme: Successful completion of Year 4 or higher.
  • School of The Arts (SOTA): Successful completion of Year 4 or higher.
  • Institute of Technical Education (ITE):
    • Full-time Higher Nitec or Nitec
    • Part-time ITE certificate, with a minimum GPA of ≥ 2.0 for Higher NITEC holders or ≥ 3.5 for NITEC holders
Successful completion of at least 10 years of education.

Eligible international students will be able to use their mid-year examination results to apply for diploma programmes at NAFA. Applicants will be given conditional offer if they are successful in their portfolio interview/audition selection. Applicants are still required to submit their year-end examination results and meet the admission requirements of the respective programmes. Any applicant who does not meet the admission requirements will have his/her conditional offer revoked.
The minimum English Language proficiency requirement:
  • Grade C6 at GCE ‘O’ Levels
  • TOEFL iBT 50
  • IELTS Academic Band 5
  • SAT score of 480 (Evidence-Based Reading and Writing component)
  • Duolingo score of 80
  • Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic) score of 42
  • Qualifications equivalent to any of the above
Applicants with Higher NITEC or NITEC qualifications are deemed to have met the English Language proficiency requirement.
Recognition is accorded for prior achievements in areas relevant to intended studies.
NAFA has the Early Admissions Exercise (EAE) that allows graduating O-Level students, final-year Nitec and Higher Nitec students from the Institute of Technical Education and graduating Integrated Programme (IP)/ International Baccaularette (IB) Year 4 students to apply and receive conditional admission prior to receiving their final grades.

The application will commence in June for the following year’s intake. Please check this page again in June.
Applicants may receive module exemption of up to 180 credits, if they have taken and passed the same or similar modules in another institution. The granting of exemption and advanced standing may be subject to applicants passing a Portfolio Interview, Audition or Admission Test. Application for module exemption may be subject to a Portfolio Interview or Audition.

Applicants with GCE A-Level, International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma and IB Career-Related Certificate (IBCC)

Applicants who have completed GCE A-Level or IB Diploma will be eligible to be considered for module exemption (up to 120 credits) in the relevant programmes. Applicants from SOTA who have completed Year 4 and above are eligible to receive advanced standing (Year 1, Semester 2 or Year 2, Semester 1) in relevant Diploma programmes subject to their final or preliminary examination results.

Applicants with Higher Nitec/ Nitec:
Full-time ITE graduates from the following courses are eligible to apply for module exemption:

  • Higher Nitec in Architectural Technology
  • Higher Nitec in Visual Merchandising
  • Higher Nitec in Architectural Technology
  • Nitec in Interactive Media Design
  • Nitec in Interior & Exhibition Design
  • Nitec in Product Design
  • Nitec in Architectural Technology
  • Nitec in Interior & Exhibition Design
  • Nitec in Visual Communication
  • Nitec in Visual Effects

How to Apply

Take the leap! Your career as a music educator begins here.

Apply online
Apply online here along with your application fees. Applications are open from October each year for the following year’s August intake.

For all programmes except Diploma in Arts Management ^, select either Portfolio Submission or Admission Test in the application portal.

Applicants may be asked to attend an interview in person or online.
Keep the Application Acknowledgement for your reference and submit the required documents
Send documents listed in the checklist to [email protected] for verification within five working days from the application date.

Make payment of the Application Fee (non-refundable) at the cashier counter in NAFA or online
Make payment of the Application Fee (non-refundable) at the cashier counter in NAFA or online at https://payment.nafa.edu.sg/Students. Applicants who are paying online will be required to upload the above documents during application.
Attend the audition at NAFA
Attend the audition at NAFA with the required materials as indicated in the test advisory.
Application outcome
Receive the outcome of your application via email within 4 – 6 weeks after your Portfolio Submission/Interview/Audition or Admission Test.