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ARB404 | CRICOS: 102458F | Provider: 00212K

Bachelor of Creative Industries (Drama and Performance)

In partnership with the University of Canberra

Engage and empower communities through the arts with this hands-on 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: 03 Feb 2025 Duration: 3 years View all intakes
ANNUAL INDICATIVE COST
Domestic

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.

$8,020

Course overview

Engage and empower communities through the arts with this hands-on degree.  You will develop a range of highly advanced practical skills and specialised knowledge. 

In this course you will develop the skills and knowledge required to initiate and produce creative performances, projects and events to activate and empower communities. 

You will study the role of the arts facilitator, educator, producer and project manager in creating, leading and facilitating projects for positive social change and real-world impact.  The program is suitable for beginners and emerging and established performing artists who want to continue exploring their independent practices, engaging in performance theory, professional practice and entrepreneurial skills. 

What can I do?

  • Independent performance practice
  • Arts Administration
  • Project Management Officer
  • Producing
  • Arts Educator
  • Arts Facilitator

Course outcome:

ARB404 Bachelor of Creative Industries (Drama 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.

Specialised training facilities

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
  • 10432
    Introduction to Performance Skills - Level 1
    UNIT CODE :
    10432
    Unit description :
    Through both practical and theoretical study the student will develop foundational performance skills and knowledge in acting, voice and body at an introductory level. The students will be introduced to the fundamental concepts of contemporary acting practice, as well as the history and development of acting and performance styles. The students will be introduced to acting vocal technique. An overview of the teachings of a variety of internationally recognised voice teachers will be provided in this course, but specific training will be provided exploring the approach known as 'Freeing the Natural voice' developed by Kristin Linklater. The students will engage in physical performance training to study the use of the body as an instrument of expression and power for performance, and will be introduced to the history of performer training and various key theatre practitioners.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Introduction to Performance Skills - Level 1
    (Credit Points: 6)

  • 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
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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 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
  • 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)

  • 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
  • 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
  • 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)
Ways to study
  • 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

  • demo View comparison chart
CAMPUS STUDY MODE START DATE DURATION WORKLOAD ANNUAL INDICATIVE COST
South Bank
On Campus
03 Feb 2025
3 years
Full time up to 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.

demo

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. 

03 Feb 2025
DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

3 years
Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Full time up to 5 days per 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
VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No
ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

On-Campus
TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom
South Bank
On Campus
28 Jul 2025
3 years
Full time up to 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.

demo

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. 

28 Jul 2025
DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

3 years
Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Full time up to 5 days per 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
VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No
ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

On-Campus
TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom

Download Brochure

Bachelor of Creative Industries (Drama and Performance) (ARB404)

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Bachelor of Creative Industries (Drama and Performance)

COURSE CODE: ARB404
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.

Learn more
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 entrance rank. A rank can be achieved by the following means:

  • Year 12 ATAR
  • other Australian qualification
  • work experience
  • overseas qualification


We also offer a number of entry initiatives that give you the opportunity to gain entry to university via alternate pathway programs and admission
schemes. More information is available on the University of Canberra website.

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.

Course disclaimer

All information was accurate at time of publication, however TAFE policies, tuition fees 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.