Course Overview
Course Code: CUA51520
CRICOS Code: 106317J
The nationally recognised Diploma of Dance (Elite Performance) provides 12-months intense technical training to develop the young dancer with the technical and performance skills necessary to work in professional dance companies.
At the Diploma level, students are expected to apply theory and creative skills in different situations. They will be required to display initiative and judgement in planning dance related activities.
They will have autonomy in performing complex technical operations and will be supported as they work towards being responsible for the planning, coordination and evaluation of the work of others, within set parameters.
Our highly skilled faculty provides excellent training in classical ballet, contemporary dance, cultural dance, pointe work, jazz dance, choreographic skills and maintaining fitness through gym and conditioning classes.
Students are encouraged to continue their Vocational Training through the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) Examinations from Advanced Foundation through to Solo Seal. Students may have the opportunity to compete in Australian and International competitions and will take part in several productions and choreographic workshops throughout the year.
Students are able to complete academic studies while undertaking the Diploma.
Diploma Course Details 2025
Course Overview
Throughout the course, students will develop their own artistic style and voice, exploring their creativity and learning how to choreograph their own work. They will also gain valuable insights into the business side of the dance industry, learning about marketing, networking, and other important skills that are necessary for success.
The program’s emphasis on performance will allow students to showcase their talents in a variety of venues and settings, including mainstage performances, theatres, festivals, and other public events. Additionally, the smaller cohort numbers provide students with close mentoring and support from their teachers, enabling them to receive personalised attention and guidance as they work towards achieving their goals.
On completion of this program, students will be well-prepared to audition for ballet and contemporary dance companies, as well as to pursue other opportunities in the dance industry. With a strong foundation in technique, creativity, and business skills, graduates of this program will be equipped to excel in a wide range of dance-related careers.
Course Details
Units of Study 6 core units plus 7 elective units (Total 13)
Duration 12 months full time
CORE UNITS
CUADAN531 Refine dance techniques
CUAPPR512 Develop sustainability of own professional practice
CUAPRF511 Refine performance techniques
CUAPRF513 Prepare for and perform in competitive environments
CUAWHS413 Incorporate anatomy principles into skill development
CUAWHS511 Maintain a high level of fitness for performance
ELECTIVE UNITS
CUADAN511 Refine ballet techniques
CUADAN512 Refine ballet performance skills
CUADAN513 Perform repertoire for corps de ballet
CUADAN514 Perform ballet solo variations
CUADAN515 Refine contemporary dance techniques
CUADAN518 Develop expertise in allied contemporary dance techniques
CUADAN519 Refine pointe work techniques
CUADTM431 Design and conduct dance learning program (with cert IV)
CUAFIM511 Source funding for projects
CUAMUP511 Apply theatrical make-up and hairstyles
Key Dates
| 2025 | The National Ballet School (FT) | Census Dates |
| Term 1 | 28 January to 4 April | TBC |
| Term 2 | 22 April to 4 July | TBC |
| Term 3 | 21 July to 19 September | TBC |
| Term 4 | 6 October to 19 December | TBC |
Entry Requirements
- Students who enter the Certificate IV course will either be completing their final years of schooling or wish to fast track their training towards preparation to audition into the Diploma of Professional Dance (Elite Performance) course.
- The Certificate IV course is designed to give more advanced skills to younger students on their way to full-time training and a professional career. It offers high level training in all dance styles (Ballet, Character, Jazz, Contemporary). A Certificate IV qualification is equivalent to a year 12 level of qualification.
- Students must be 15 years or over by the 1st of January the year their studies commence and have completed Year 9 studies.
- Applicants may have to complete a Language, Literacy and Numeracy Test (LLN) to ensure they receive the right support to achieve this qualification. This course is open to international students. This course is taught in English and International students must meet a minimum level of 6 IELTS or equivalent.
- Students must meet all requirements and pass all units of competency in each
- subsequent year to obtain the qualification.
- Applicants must be at an Advanced Level from a Recognised Classical Ballet Syllabus.
Fees
AU/NZ student $14,700 (inc gst) per annum.
International students $18,600 (inc gst) per annum