ARB401 | CRICOS: 102455J | Provider: 00212K

Bachelor of Creative Industries (Acting and Performance)

In partnership with the University of Canberra

Take centre stage and establish your acting and performance career with this degree. You will develop a range of highly advanced practical skills and specialised knowledge.

Apply now

STUDY LOCATIONS Greater Brisbane

WAYS TO STUDY On campus

NEXT INTAKE Start date: 02 Feb 2026 Duration: 3 years View all intakes

ANNUAL INDICATIVE COST

Domestic

$8,020

Course overview

Take centre stage and establish your acting and performance career with this degree. You will develop a range of highly advanced practical skills and specialised knowledge.

This program focuses on the craft and art of acting and performance. The course offers lively, detailed and focused training in acting, voice and body skills and gives students regular performance opportunities to perform for live audiences. You will unleash your creative voice as an independent performance maker and develop as an actor and performer who thinks for themselves and respects their own ideas and ideals.

During the course you will be exposed to plays, readings, online resources and academic materials that have been designed to inspire, challenge and motivate the training actor.

The program is tailored for those students who want to engage in a professional career as a stage or film actor, performing artist or performance maker.

What can I do?

Actor
Performer
Main-stage theatre
Independent theatre
Film and TV
Self-devised Work
Producer
Playwriting
Director
Radio
Voice-Over Work

Course outcome:

ARB401 Bachelor of Creative Industries (Acting and Performance)

UC Brisbane Creative Industries Degrees

Gain practical experience and develop key employability skills including communication, teamwork, and critical, creative and strategic thinking. Learn from industry professionals whilst studying in Brisbane, graduate with real-world experience, ready to impress employers and launch your creative career.

Entrepreneurial thinking

Acting students have access to a range of specialised facilities, allowing you to develop your craft and hone your skills in a professional environment. Our fully-equipped black box theatre and breakout and rehearsal rooms are all fitted out with lighting and AV equipment, ensuring a seamless transition from the classroom to the stage.

What you will study

This is a typical study pattern and may differ depending on credit received. Please note not all units are offered in each teaching period.

UNIT CODE
UNIT NAME

Year 1 - Semester 1

Year 1 - Semester 1

UNIT CODE
11591

Professional Orientation (Creative Industries and digital Design) - Level 1

UNIT CODE :
11591

Unit description :
This unit introduces students to the diverse opportunities in the world of creative and digital design industries. Aspects that will be considered include: contemporary demands of the industry including social responsibility, ethical and sustainability issues. Through engagement with industry and community, students will gain an understanding of global discipline knowledge, skills and abilities required to perform as responsible, capable creative industry and digital design professionals. Students will start their career awareness and planning through approaches such as five year plans and ePortfolios.
UNIT NAME
Professional Orientation (Creative Industries and digital Design) - Level 1
(Credit Points: 3)

UNIT CODE
9711

Performance Skills 1 - Level 1

UNIT CODE :
9711

Unit description :
Through both practical and theoretical study the student will develop fundamental performance skills in acting, voice and body at an introductory level. The students will be introduced to fundamental concepts of acting as theorised by Stanislavsky and other related practitioners through the study of monologues and duologues, plays and theoretical writings. The students will be introduced to vocal technique for the actor. Various texts and writings of a variety of internally recognised voice teachers will be explored in this course. The students will commence physical performance training to condition and strengthen the body. They will be introduced to the history of performer training and various key theatre practitioners. This subject will also focus on developing communication skills in academic and creative contexts.
UNIT NAME
Performance Skills 1 - Level 1
(Credit Points: 3)

UNIT CODE
9717

Production Theatre Skills - Level 1

UNIT CODE :
9717

Unit description :
This unit will require first year students to consolidate the skills and knowledge acquired in acting, vocal, and body studies and related theatre history/theory. They will integrate them in an exhaustive rehearsal process that will culminate in a full production of a devised performance combining text and physicality for a short public season. Students will be exposed to the process of lighting and sound design implementation and stage management through participation in technical rehearsals. Students will engage in text analysis and research activities for the duration of the rehearsal process to explore and study the performance text in-depth.
UNIT NAME
Production Theatre Skills - Level 1
(Credit Points: 3)

UNIT CODE
OEU

Open Elective Unit

UNIT CODE :
OEU

Unit description :
UNIT NAME
Open Elective Unit
(Credit Points: 3)

Year 1 - Semester 2

Year 1 - Semester 2

UNIT CODE
11595

The Big Picture - Level 2

UNIT CODE :
11595

Unit description :
This project-based unit provides students with a unique opportunity, working in small cross-disciplinary teams, to explore courageous or experimental projects, without the pressure of having to produce something that is objectively 'successful'. Assessment in this unit will focus not upon the quality or otherwise of the group-driven creative outputs, but rather upon the reflective, individual exegetical and reflective components that accompany them.
UNIT NAME
The Big Picture - Level 2
(Credit Points: 3)

UNIT CODE
9712

Performance Skills 2 - Level 1

UNIT CODE :
9712

Unit description :
This subject deepens the first year students practice by challenging them to further develop the skills and knowledge acquired in Performance Skills 1. The students will continue to develop their acting technique through the study of a range of theorists and playwrights of the 20th Century and exploring some important thematic and literary currents in dramatic literature and theory. The students will continue to explore and develop a free voice and vocal flexibility by performing a wide variety of texts and will extend their understanding of different voice training methodologies. The students will continue physical performance training to condition and strengthen the body. They will be introduced to the theory and philosophy of specific training methodologies. This subject will also focus on developing communication skills in academic and creative contexts.
UNIT NAME
Performance Skills 2 - Level 1
(Credit Points: 3)

UNIT CODE
OEU

Open Elective Unit

UNIT CODE :
OEU

Unit description :
UNIT NAME
Open Elective Unit
(Credit Points: 3)

UNIT CODE
OEU

Open Elective Unit

UNIT CODE :
OEU

Unit description :
UNIT NAME
Open Elective Unit
(Credit Points: 3)

Year 2 - Semester 1

Year 2 - Semester 1

UNIT CODE
11596

Creativity and Culture: Truth and Ideation - Level 2

UNIT CODE :
11596

Unit description :
This unit challenges the notions of truth and knowledge. It will explore the idea of cultural relativity and challenge our own way of thinking. Knowledge generation will be examined by exploring fictional and historical worlds that establish their own truths and ideations.
UNIT NAME
Creativity and Culture: Truth and Ideation - Level 2
(Credit Points: 3)

UNIT CODE
9713

Performance and Skills 3 - Level 2

UNIT CODE :
9713

Unit description :
This subject deepens the second year students practice by challenging them to employ performance training techniques at a developing intermediate level. The students will continue to refine their acting technique through the study and performance of Shakespearean and other heightened texts. The students will continue to refine their vocal technique through the extensive exploration of vocal range and the handling and presentation of classical text through performances of Shakespearean texts. The students will continue to engage in physical performance training to study the use of the body as an instrument of expression and power for performance. They will be introduced to the theory of various 20th century models of performer training and explore their impact on contemporary forms of physical theatre practice.
UNIT NAME
Performance and Skills 3 - Level 2
(Credit Points: 3)

UNIT CODE
11593

Creative Practice 1 - Level 1

UNIT CODE :
11593

Unit description :
Creative Project 1 focuses on the independent conceptualisation, planning and realisation of a student-generated work in the creative field. The unit aims to introduce the student to working independently as a freelance creative, applying all principles and skills gained from other core units.
UNIT NAME
Creative Practice 1 - Level 1
(Credit Points: 3)

UNIT CODE
OEU

Open Elective Unit

UNIT CODE :
OEU

Unit description :
UNIT NAME
Open Elective Unit
(Credit Points: 3)

Year 2 - Semester 2

Year 2 - Semester 2

UNIT CODE
11017

Professional Practice 1: Work Integrated Learning - Level 2

UNIT CODE :
11017

Unit description :
In this unit students will work with academics, peers and industry partners to apply their learning in real-world contexts, develop employability skills and strengthen the disciplinary skills and knowledge needed to contribute to and excel in their professions. Authentic learning experiences will include simulated workplace experiences, industry collaborations, competitions, internships, exhibitions or studio work.
UNIT NAME
Professional Practice 1: Work Integrated Learning - Level 2
(Credit Points: 3)

UNIT CODE
9714

Performance Skills 4 - Level 2

UNIT CODE :
9714

Unit description :
This subject deepens the second year students practice by challenging them to further develop the skills and knowledge acquired in Performance Skills 3. The students will continue to refine their acting through the exploration of contemporary texts. They will be introduced to the theory of various 20th century models of actor training techniques. The students will continue to refine their vocal technique through the extensive exploration of vocal range and the handling and presentation of classical text through performances of Moliere. The students will continue to engage in physical performance training to study the use of the body as an instrument of expression and power for acting and stage performance. They will be introduced to various concepts and ideas about the body as discussed by a range of performance practitioners.
UNIT NAME
Performance Skills 4 - Level 2
(Credit Points: 3)

UNIT CODE
9718

Screen and TV Studies - Level 2

UNIT CODE :
9718

Unit description :
On completion of the Screen and TV Studies unit, students will have a solid understanding of current screen production environments and the range of opportunities for emerging actors. They should possess the research skills to continue to grow and develop as creative storytellers, and the production skills to create their own showreel scenes. Students will develop on-camera performance skills to engage effectively as actors across a range of screen productions, and to meet the practical and/or creative requirements of the camera and the director. Students will engage in the production of short location scenes that can be utilised in their acting showreels. They will be expected to develop fundamental skills in camera operating, directing, sound recording and editing. Students are introduced to fundamental screen theory, history and grammar.
UNIT NAME
Screen and TV Studies - Level 2
(Credit Points: 3)

UNIT CODE
OEU

Open Elective Unit

UNIT CODE :
OEU

Unit description :
UNIT NAME
Open Elective Unit
(Credit Points: 3)

Year 3 - Semester 1

Year 3 - Semester 1

UNIT CODE
11018

Professional Practice 2: Work Integrated Learning - Level 3

UNIT CODE :
11018

Unit description :
In this unit students will further develop their abilities as agile professionals with the transferable employability skills and critical and creative abilities to work across industries and sectors and craft diverse employment paths. They will integrate disciplinary knowledge with the professional skills required in their industry through authentic simulated or real workplace experiences, international exchanges or industry collaborations or projects.
UNIT NAME
Professional Practice 2: Work Integrated Learning - Level 3
(Credit Points: 3)

UNIT CODE
9715

Performance Skills 5 - Level 3

UNIT CODE :
9715

Unit description :
The students will continue to refine and develop their acting through the exploration of modern and contemporary texts. They will explore the important playwrights and theorists that have shaped the development of the art of acting in the 20th Century. In this unit, learners work toward increased refinement of physical and vocal flexibility and strength, which allows their bodies and voices to sustain them throughout the challenges of work in the performing arts industry. The students will continue to engage in physical performance training. They will be introduced to the work of various 20th Century experimental and physical theatre practitioners and companies.
UNIT NAME
Performance Skills 5 - Level 3
(Credit Points: 3)

UNIT CODE
OEU

Open Elective Unit

UNIT CODE :
OEU

Unit description :
UNIT NAME
Open Elective Unit
(Credit Points: 3)

UNIT CODE
OEU

Open Elective Unit

UNIT CODE :
OEU

Unit description :
UNIT NAME
Open Elective Unit
(Credit Points: 3)

Year 3 - Semester 2

Year 3 - Semester 2

UNIT CODE
11592

Professional Evidence (Creative Industries and Digital Design) - Level 3

UNIT CODE :
11592

Unit description :
This unit prepares students for professional work in the cultural sector and finalises and reviews your ePortfolio. Through practical activities, such as preparing a grant application, developing a team-based project proposal, and researching a cultural organisation, students learn to relate their discipline specific knowledge to a range of professional contexts. The unit will emphasise the significance of multiculturalism, cultural consumption and globalisation as key influences shaping cultural work in the twenty first century.
UNIT NAME
Professional Evidence (Creative Industries and Digital Design) - Level 3
(Credit Points: 3)

UNIT CODE
9716

Performance Skills 6 - Level 3

UNIT CODE :
9716

Unit description :
This subject unit deepens the third year students' practice by challenging them to employ performance techniques at a graduate level as required for the performing arts industry at large. The students will continue to consolidate their acting through the exploration of contemporary and modern texts and explore important theoretical topics on the art of acting. They will develop professional auditioning skills by focusing on the technical and creative aspects of presenting monologues and scenes. The students will continue to refine their vocal technique through extensive exploration of vocal range and the handling and presentation of a variety of texts in different performance contexts, including 'voice acting'. The students will continue to engage in physical performance training. They will be introduced to various theatrical concepts, theories and practices associated with physical theatres.
UNIT NAME
Performance Skills 6 - Level 3
(Credit Points: 3)

UNIT CODE
11594

Creative Practice 2 - Level 2

UNIT CODE :
11594

Unit description :
This unit focuses on the independent conceptualisation, planning and realisation of a student-generated major work in their creative field. The unit emphasises consultation/collaboration as part of the creative process, skill refinement and the consideration of publication. This unit is based on a model of academic supervision and is intended to pave the way towards independent modes of learning crucial in the industry and at postgraduate levels of study.
UNIT NAME
Creative Practice 2 - Level 2
(Credit Points: 3)

UNIT CODE
OEU

Open Elective Unit

UNIT CODE :
OEU

Unit description :
UNIT NAME
Open Elective Unit
(Credit Points: 3)

UNIT CODE
UNIT NAME

Elective Units - Acting and Performance

Elective Units - Acting and Performance

UNIT CODE
9719

Theatre History and Theory - Level 1

UNIT CODE :
9719

Unit description :
This subject introduces first year students to the key theatrical, cultural and historical events, ideas and practices that have influenced and enabled the development of the theatre and performing arts culture from the foundations of civilisations to the current era, specifically by reference to significant plays. The unit also seeks to contextualise how the history of theatre and theory impacts on the contemporary actor/performer and aims to develop students' individual skills for critiquing and analysing dramatic texts, productions and relevant performance theories. This subject also focuses on developing communication skills in academic and creative contexts.
UNIT NAME
Theatre History and Theory - Level 1
(Credit Points: 3)

UNIT CODE
9710

Performance Making - Level 2

UNIT CODE :
9710

Unit description :
This unit deepens the second year student's creative practice by challenging them to develop a short experimental solo piece of physical theatre for a public audience, providing them with the opportunity to take vital steps towards finding their distinct creative 'voice'. Under teacher facilitation the students will undertake a process wherein they are responsible for initiating, developing, shaping and refining their individual performance pieces. Students will also be required to employ critical and reflective skills in the creative practice as an emerging creative artist or creative professional. This unit will also focus on developing communication skills in academic and creative contexts. This is a practical unit and requires compulsory attendance.
UNIT NAME
Performance Making - Level 2
(Credit Points: 3)

UNIT CODE
9708

Critical Performance - Level 1

UNIT CODE :
9708

Unit description :
This unit introduces students to the discipline of dramaturgy and performance writing and to key principles of critical reflection and text development in contemporary performance. Students will analyse key performance texts and employ critical literacy and reflective skills in their emerging practice. Students will also analyse key performance texts and explore form, mythic structure, storytelling, character, symbol, metaphor and theatrical language to write their own work for performance.
UNIT NAME
Critical Performance - Level 1
(Credit Points: 3)

UNIT CODE
9709

Musical Skills - Level 1

UNIT CODE :
9709

Unit description :
This subject serves as an introduction to musical skills, including beginner/intermediate music theory and singing voice development. Students will explore the building blocks of music, including pulse, rhythm, notation, melody and harmony through theory and practice, in individual and group settings. Students will learn about the singing voice as instrument, based on current voice science. Students will explore structure and function, and will also learn to co-ordinate the core components of technique, and their relation to artistry, confidence, and competence in performance. Students will have the opportunity to draw from a wide range of repertoire - Classical, Musical Theatre, and Contemporary Commercial Music (CCM). This subject will focus on developing communication skills in academic and creative contexts.
UNIT NAME
Musical Skills - Level 1
(Credit Points: 3)

UNIT CODE
10433

Animateuring - Creative Project Facilitation - Level 3

UNIT CODE :
10433

Unit description :
This capstone unit is the definitive moment in the Drama and Performance degree when students will apply the skills they have acquired during the course. This will be done in a practical way through projects enacted across the community in partnership with invited individuals, organisations, and communities. Students will be tasked through these projects with creating, leading, and facilitating, events and activities that are designed to have social, economic, and cultural benefits for those participating partners. These projects will emphasise the core roles of the animateur including maker, performer, initiating artist, collaborative artist, ensemble artist, and community facilitator.
UNIT NAME
Animateuring - Creative Project Facilitation - Level 3
(Credit Points: 3)

UNIT CODE
10434

Theatre Directing - Level 3

UNIT CODE :
10434

Unit description :
The unit provides an overview of the history and development of the director's role in modern and contemporary theatre practice. Students will study key directors and their innovations and methodologies. Students will engage with the conceptual and practical processes of bringing texts to the stage, identifying the key areas of knowledge and technique associated with working in theatrical contexts. Students will be able to conceptualise and respond creatively to a text in the form of a directorial proposal. Students will formulate an individual approach and aesthetic within a theatrical context. This subject will also focus on developing communication skills in academic and creative contexts.
UNIT NAME
Theatre Directing - Level 3
(Credit Points: 3)

Ways to study

Choose your study location

On Campus

You'll learn face to face with a teacher in a classroom or simulated workplace environment. You may access learning materials through our online learning management system Connect. Learn more
View comparison chart

CAMPUS	STUDY MODE	START DATE	DURATION	WORKLOAD	ANNUAL INDICATIVE COST
South Bank	On Campus	02 Feb 2026	3 years	Full time 5 days per week	Domestic: $8,020 This is an indicative fee for one year of full-time study for domestic students. Fees will vary based on selected units and study load. More Apply
South Bank On Campus Online Time How much of the course will be delivered online. 0% On Campus Time 100% START DATE The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 02 Feb 2026 The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. DURATION The total length of time it takes to complete the course. 3 years The total length of time it takes to complete the course. Workload The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. Full time 5 days per week The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. ANNUAL INDICATIVE COST Domestic: $8,020 This is an indicative fee for one year of full-time study for domestic students. Fees will vary based on selected units and study load. Class format Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. Teacher-led, Scheduled Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. VIRTUAL CLASS Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). No Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). ASSESSMENT The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. On-Campus The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. TEACHER COMMS The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Less Ask a question Apply

Studying on campus is a great way to enjoy the benefits of face-to-face education in a way that is far removed from a typical school. No matter which campus you choose, you know that you will be learning in an adult environment where you will be respected and nurtured. Attend a campus to learn face-to-face with a teacher in one of our learning spaces; such as a classroom, workshop, laboratory or simulated environments, or interact with teachers using real-time video or web conference tools. Learn more

Courses delivered on campus may have a combination of online and classroom based learning. Students are expected to undertake additional personal study to complete the course requirements.

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Bachelor of Creative Industries (Acting and Performance) (ARB401)

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Bachelor of Creative Industries (Acting and Performance)

COURSE CODE: ARB401

Payment Options

How can I pay for this course?

No matter what your circumstances, TAFE Queensland has a payment option to suit you. If you are unsure of what’s right for you, get in touch. We’re here to help.

Payment plan

If you have difficulty paying for the full cost of a course upfront, you may be eligible for a payment plan.

Learn more

Upfront payment

This may be the full fee for the course, or the student contribution amount if you are eligible for a subsidy or concession.

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HECS help

HECS-HELP is an Australian Government loan scheme for eligible students studying in a Commonwealth Supported Place, that covers the cost of your tuition fees on your behalf.

Learn more

Entry requirements

Selection criteria

Admission into this course is based on an audition. TAFE Queensland will invite you to the audition by email, after your application has been received.

Audition Information
There are 3 stages to the audition process

Stage 1 - Apply through QTAC or UC Online Applicant Portal
Stage 2 – Application form to be completed plus a video audition
Stage 3 – Face to face audition

Please read further information on the Acting and Performance Audition requirements here.

Resources required

It is recommended that students have access to a reliable internet connection to access the University of Canberra’s online learning system Canvas, and a computer with up-to-date software, including Microsoft Office and Adobe Acrobat Reader. This equipment and software is available for students to use at all TAFE Queensland locations.

Placement

Work Integrated Learning (WIL) is embedded within this degree.

Important information

Your attendance at all lectures and practical sessions is a requirement to successfully complete this program.

Pathways to Honours:

The Bachelor of Arts and Design (Honours) is open to students who have completed a UC/TAFE QLD partnership degree with at least a grade point average of 5.0 or better (equivalent to a credit average), or students from a three-year degree in a cognate discipline with a relevant major in which they received a grade point average of 5.0 or better.

Pass degree graduates in similar disciplinary fields from other universities, with comparable results, may also be eligible to undertake this honours degree.

Assessment methods

Skill and knowledge assessments are an essential step in progressing through your course. You may be assessed in a number of ways while you are studying at TAFE Queensland, including observation, written assessment, questioning, portfolios, work samples, third-party feedback, and through recognition of prior learning. Read more about assessment methods.

How to apply

Direct application

If you're ready to get started, simply hit the Apply Now button on your preferred course information page and get your application underway online.

Apply through QTAC

You can apply to study this course through the Queensland Tertiary Admission Centre (QTAC). You will need to submit your application on the QTAC website. It will be assessed, and if you are successful you will receive an offer directly through QTAC. You will need to accept your offer from QTAC before enrolling with TAFE Queensland. Visit the QTAC website for campus locations.

Course disclaimer

All information was accurate at time of publication, however TAFE policies, tuition fees, available subsidies, and course content is subject to change without notice. Course commencement is dependent on sufficient enrolment numbers. Timetable information is subject to change prior to commencement and/or during the duration of your course.

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Bachelor of Creative Industries (Acting and Performance)

In partnership with the University of Canberra

Course overview

What can I do?

Course outcome:

UC Brisbane Creative Industries Degrees

Entrepreneurial thinking

Core units

Elective units

South Bank

Download Brochure

Ask a question

Bachelor of Creative Industries (Acting and Performance)

Payment Options

How can I pay for this course?

Payment plan

Upfront payment

HECS help

Entry requirements

Selection criteria

Resources required

Placement

Important information

Assessment methods

How to apply

Direct application

Apply through QTAC

Course disclaimer

Related courses

Bachelor of Creative Industries (Drama and Performance)

Careers

Bachelor of Creative Industries (Contemporary Music Practice)

Careers

Bachelor of Creative Industries (Visual Arts)

Careers