The Diploma in Aboriginal Studies in Music program provides intensive and broadly-based programs in performance, practical, theoretical, industry, style, cultural and research studies.

CASM programs aim to prepare graduates to participate in professional life, including:

• as performers, composers and arrangers
• in education
• in research
• in sound engineering and production
• in community development activities - particularly those involving music making
• in the broader music and performing arts industries
• in arts curation, managment and administration
• through further studies

Students study a range of musical styles from traditional to contemporary.  These include Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander music and dance, as well as blues, rock, country, reggae, jazz, classical, hiphop/rap, soul, and metal.

Students who satisfactorily complete all courses at the Diploma level, and who do not wish to proceed to Advanced Diploma level, may upon application, receive the Diploma in Aboriginal Studies in Music.

Admission to the Diploma in Aboriginal Studies in Music normally depends upon satisfactory completion of all courses in the CASM Foundation Year.

CASM reserves the right to permit admission to the Diploma in Aboriginal Studies in Music to students who have not completed the CASM Foundation Year, but who provide evidence of appropriate, equivalent skills and/or prior study in all areas covered within the CASM Foundation Year. This would normally be through formal study and relevant experience.

Course areas for the Diploma are broadly based and include:

• Performance
• Instrumental/Vocal Studies
• Songwriting, Composition and Arranging 
• Theory of Music and Notation
• Aural Skills
• Academic and Research Skills
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies
• Style Studies
• Sound Engineering and Production
• Computers and Music
• Industry Skills
• Career Management
• Electives

Electives may include:

• choir
• traditional dance
• yidaki (didgeridoo)
• studio techniques and sound production
• song writing, composition
• radio presentation
• computing for musicians

Instruments taught may include:

• guitar
• voice
• bass
• drums and percussion
• keyboard
• saxophone
• flute
• violin
• yidaki (didgeridoo)
• other instruments as negotiated