Total number of units = 17
7 core units plus
10 elective units
Course Overview
Course Code: CUA51520
CRICOS Code: 106317J
The Diploma in Professional Dance is a comprehensive training program designed for individuals who wish to pursue a career in dance. This program provides students with a strong foundation in classical ballet technique, as well as the opportunity to refine their skills in contemporary dance.
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.
Competition Opportunities
Selected students may also compete in Australian and International Competition, such as: The Margot Fonteyn International Ballet Competition, Kathleen Gorham Memorial Award, Ballet Teachers Workshop, Alannah Haines Australiasian Awards, City of Sydney Eisteddfod just to name a few.
Performance Opportunities
There are three performance opportunities per year with productions directed by Damian Smith and performed on The National Theatre’s heritage stage.
All Diploma students work with our professional stage crew understanding the roles and options used to create production and scenes and the extensive OHS requirements for stage productions.
Students have the chance to express and explore their own creativity in our Choreographic Workshop with their fellow dancers.
Diploma Of Professional Dance (Elite Performance) CUA51520
CUADAN517 Refine dance partnering techniques
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
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
CUADAN516 Refine cultural dance techniques
CUADAN519 Refine pointe work techniques
CUADAN432 Improvise advanced dance sequences
CUAMUP511 Apply theatrical make-up and hairstyles
CUAPRF412 Develop conceptual and expressive skills as a performer
CUAWHS411 Apply movement and behavioural principles to conditioning
CUAWHS412 Participate in gym and resistance training for performances
12 months full time (approx 30-35hrs a week)
| The National Ballet School (FT) | Census Dates | |
| Term 1 | Mon 30 Jan- Thu 6 Apr | 12-Feb |
| Term 2 | Mon 24 Apr to Sat 24 Jun | 06-May |
| Term 3 | Mon 10 Jul to Sat 15 Sep | 23-Jul |
| Term 4 | Mon 2 Oct to Sat 9 Dec | 16-Oct |
- Students must be 16 years or over by the 1st of January the year their studies commence. Due to the academic requirements of the course, students must have completed Year 10 High School or equivalent.
- 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 5.5 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.
Acceptance to the course is by audition only.
Auditions for 2024 intake open July 2023.
Step1 Register for your audition. (from July 2023)
Step 2 Prepare for and complete your audition.
Step 3 If you are offered a place following your audition, complete the student enrolment forms and pay the required fees. Schools’ administration will then contact you to manage your enrolment including providing you with the Student information Handbook.
Register your interest below and we’ll keep you up to date with course information, audition dates and applications processes.
register your interestAU/NZ student fees Tuition fees $13,303.50 (inc gst) per annum.
International Students Tuition fees $16,879 per annum
For further information on fees, charges, VET loans and finance visit our Fees and Charges page
Register your interest below and we’ll keep you up to date with course information, audition dates and applications processes.
Register your interest