CUA60120 Advanced Diploma of Professional Dance (Elite Performance)

Course Overview

This qualification reflects the role of dancers with the technique and talent required to work in professional dance companies, as well as commercial or competition settings. Students are expected to apply wide-ranging, highly specialised technical, creative and conceptual skills to express ideas and perspectives required for chosen dance styles.

Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) Level

This course has been accredited by ECU as an AQF Level 6 Advanced Diploma Award.

Course Code

C79

Entry Requirements

• ECU admission and English language requirements apply.
• Academic admission requirements (Band 1) may be satisfied through completion of one of the following:
  • Completion of Year 10 or equivalent.
• Requirements from 01-JUL-2026:
  • All applicants are required to attend an audition. During the audition, applicants must demonstrate competence in at least one dance style equivalent to Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) Level 5 or above.
  • It is desirable that applicants also demonstrate dance expertise through extensive vocational experience or through graded achievements in various dance styles via dance societies that conduct examinations linked to certification levels.
  • Should any additional information be required, applicants may be invited to interview.
  • Additionally, applicants will normally be turning 17 years of age by 30 June in the year they commence the course.
  • As part of the application process, applicants will be required to complete a language, literacy, numeracy and digital literacy skills and competencies review.

English Language Requirements (Band 1)

English competency requirements may be satisfied through completion of one of the following:

• Year 10 English completion or equivalent.

Course Structure

The Training Package rules require 4 Core units plus 14 Elective units.

Course Details

• Duration: 1 year full-time
• Availability & Campus: This course is not available to all students.
• Timetable: This course has a modified timetable.

Units

Year 1 - Semester 1

• Dance Teaching Unit Code | Unit Title
  • CUADTM431 | Design and conduct dance learning program

Year 1 - Semester 2

• Performance Unit Code | Unit Title
  • CUAMUP511 | Apply theatrical make-up and hairstyles

Year 1 - VET Full

• Ballet
  • CUADAN531 | Refine dance techniques
  • CUADAN613 | Extend ballet techniques to a professional level
• Choreography
  • CUACHR511 | Create and perform complex dance pieces
  • CUAMPF612 | Manage stagecraft aspects of performances
• Contemporary
  • CUADAN617 | Extend dance techniques to a professional level
• Dance History
  • CUARES501 | Refine conceptual understanding of dance
• Fitness
  • CUAWHS511 | Maintain a high level of fitness for performance
  • CUAWHS611 | Apply advanced gym and weight training to dance
• Improvisation
  • CUAPPR615 | Evolve ideas for professional creative work
• Pas de Deux
  • CUADAN615 | Perform pas de deux at a professional level
• Performance
  • CUADAN631 | Perform dance repertoire at a professional level
• Performance Psychology
  • CUAWHS612 | Develop strategies for maintaining resilience in a competitive environment
• Pointe
  • CUADAN616 | Extend pointe work techniques to a professional level
• Repertoire
  • CUADAN618 | Extend contemporary dance performance skills to a professional level
  • CUADAN621 | Perform virtuoso contemporary dance techniques
• Solos/Repertoire
  • CUADAN614 | Extend ballet performance skills to a professional level
• Ballet/Cultural Dance
  • CUADAN619 | Extend cultural dance performance skills to a professional level

Career Opportunities

The job roles that relate to this qualification may include professional dancer. The WAAPA C79 Course prepares the talented dance artist for the demands of work in mainstream Australian and overseas ballet and/or dance companies. It provides intense practical experience, developing strong technique and artistry through classes and performance opportunities.

Further Study

Following successful completion of the ECU C79 course, current students may apply for the T73, Bachelor of Arts (Dance) for a further eighteen months of training that allows ballet-focused students to graduate with a Bachelor's degree. An audition is required to progress to the T73.

Edith Cowan University

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Overview:

Edith Cowan University (ECU) is a public university located in Western Australia. It is known for its commitment to providing a high-quality student experience and its focus on research and innovation. ECU is a relatively young institution, established in 1991, but has quickly gained a global reputation for its academic excellence.

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Services Offered:

ECU offers a range of services to support students, including:

Future student events:

On-campus and online sessions to help students decide on their course of study.

Scholarships:

A variety of scholarships are available for eligible applicants.

My-Uni-Start:

A platform for students to respond to their offer and begin their ECU experience.

Career support:

Ongoing career support and access to industry contacts for alumni.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

ECU boasts a vibrant campus life and offers a range of student experiences. The university has been recognized for its overall student experience, ranking highly among Australian universities.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

High-quality teaching:

ECU is known for its high-quality teaching, as evidenced by its ranking in The Good Universities Guide.

Global reputation:

Despite its young age, ECU has established a strong global reputation, ranking among the world's best universities under 50 years old.

State-of-the-art facilities:

ECU is investing in new facilities, including the upcoming ECU City campus, which will be a dynamic landmark in Perth's CBD.

Strong research community:

ECU has a vibrant research community, actively supporting student and staff researchers.

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Academic Programs:

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Other:

Indigenous recognition:

ECU is committed to supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and staff.

Industry partnerships:

ECU collaborates with a wide range of industry partners, including businesses, government agencies, and community organizations.

Philanthropic support:

The ECU Foundation attracts support from individuals, alumni, and businesses.

Employment opportunities:

ECU offers a variety of employment opportunities for staff and graduates.