Bachelor of Circus Arts
Blended learning – on-campus and digital learning
The Bachelor of Circus Arts aims to produce graduates with a broad body of knowledge and skills through immersive and experiential practice-based studies in contemporary circus arts. An intense student-centred approach to learning through the conservatoire model seeks to enable students to develop the knowledge and abilities necessary to become confident and autonomous circus arts practitioners.
Work Integrated Learning is a guaranteed part of all our bachelor degrees. In the unit Capstone Ensemble Show (BCA30008), you'll work with a world-class guest Director to develop an ensemble show for public performance.
Course details
- Course structure, career opportunities and professional recognition.
Course structure
Successful completion of the Bachelor of Circus Arts requires students to complete units of study to the value of 300 credit points. All units of study are valued at 12.5 credit points unless otherwise stated.
View course rules and special requirements
*Outcome unit – completion demonstrates the attainment of course learning outcomes
- Full-time study: 100 credit points/eight standard units of study per year
- Part-time study: 50 credit points/four standard units of study per year
- One credit point is equivalent to one hour of study per week per semester (including contact hours and private study)
- See the course planner for an example degree structure
Course learning outcomes
Graduates of the Bachelor of Circus Arts will be able to:
- demonstrate skills and knowledge of the practices, languages, forms, materials, technologies and techniques in contemporary and traditional circus arts
- apply relevant skills and knowledge to produce and realise diverse and interdisciplinary circus performances
- present elite performances in contemporary circus arts practice
- develop, research and evaluate ideas, concepts and processes through creative, critical and reflective thinking and practice
- work independently and collaboratively in the contemporary circus arts discipline in response to project demands
- interpret, communicate and present ideas, problems and arguments in modes suited to a range of audiences
- recognise and reflect on social, cultural and ethical issues, and apply local and international perspectives to practice in the contemporary circus industry.
Career opportunities
Formal training in circus skills opens up exciting opportunities for a future career. Graduates are highly employable, knowledgeable and creative. They have found careers nationally and internationally. NICA training can lead to work in contemporary circus, traditional circus, social circus, stunt work, corporate entertainment, festivals, teaching and other sectors of the arts industry. New companies are emerging as NICA graduates find their place in Australia’s cultural landscape.
Professional recognition
The National Institute of Circus Arts is recognised both nationally and internationally as a centre for excellence in training. NICA is a current member of the Arts8 - The national elite performing arts training organisations.
NICA is accredited as a full member of the Fédération Européenne des Écoles de Cirque Professionnelles (Federation of European Professional Circus Schools). NICA is the South East Asian training partner for Cirque du Soleil and has strategic alliances and training partnerships with: Nanjing Acrobatic Troupe, Shanghai Circus School, Belfast Community Circus and Taiwan National Academy of Performing Arts.
Fees
- Fees for 2022 and 2023.
Students who participate in a six- or 12-month professional placement will be subject to an increase in total course fees.
Fees for 2022
| 2022 rate* | Estimated total cost of the course | Estimated cost of the course per year if studying full-time* | Amenities fee per year if studying full-time* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full fee |
$47,520 | $15,840 | See how your SSAF is calculated |
How do I pay my fees?
FEE-HELP is a loan given to eligible full-fee paying higher education students to help pay part or all of their tuition fees. The Commonwealth Government pays the amount of the loan directly to Swinburne.
Find out more about fees.
Fees for 2023
| 2023 rate* | Estimated total cost of the course | Estimated cost of the course per year if studying full-time* | Amenities fee per year if studying full-time* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full fee |
$48,960 | $16,320 | See how your SSAF is calculated |
How do I pay my fees?
FEE-HELP is a loan given to eligible full-fee paying higher education students to help pay part or all of their tuition fees. The Commonwealth Government pays the amount of the loan directly to Swinburne.
Find out more about fees.
Scholarships
At Swinburne scholarships are about providing opportunity, promoting equity and recognising excellence and achievement. Scholarships are available for both commencing and current students.
How to enter this course
- Entry requirements, credit transfer and recognition of prior learning.
How to apply
Entry into NICA requires an application via Swinburne University of Technology using the Apply Now button on this page - followed by audition, interview and medical assessment. Prospective students must apply to audition. Applicants who cannot travel to audition venues may apply by video.
If you are interested in this course and would like further information about auditions, please sign up to Inside Track for audition information and application dates.
More information about studying at the National Institute of Circus Arts is available at the NICA website.
Indigenous students are encouraged to apply.
Applications to audition for the Bachelor of Circus Arts will close Saturday, 15 October 2022.
View the Course Admission Information, which includes the ATAR and Student profiles for this course. Swinburne’s general admissions information is also available here.