Program Overview

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.