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.
Swinburne has taken the decision to pause enrolments in NICA’s Bachelor of Circus Arts for 2024, while we assess its future viability and strategic alignment with Swinburne’s priorities.
There is no change for current students, who will continue their studies at NICA and enrolments continue for NICA’s vocational education offerings.
Swinburne is working closely with the Victorian Government to ensure the long-term sustainability of NICA.
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
On successful completion of this Course students will be able to:
- Demonstrate transferable 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, analyse and evaluate ideas, concepts and processes through creative, critical and reflective thinking and practice
- Work safely, 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
The Bachelor of Circus Arts is designed to educate and train highly skilled industry-ready circus artists who can work as independent artists or as members of an ensemble and pursue careers in the global circus industry.
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 2023.
Students who participate in a six- or 12-month professional placement will be subject to an increase in total course fees.
| 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 an 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 25 August 2023