Certificate IV in Dance CUA40120

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Course Overview

Course Code CUA40120
CRICOS Course Code: 105787J

Certificate IV Course Details 2026

Students train in a range of different styles, including classical ballet, contemporary dance, character dance and jazz and tap, as well as in areas such as improvisation, partnering, and repertoire. Developing technical skills better equips students to handle the physical demands of a career in dance, as well as to communicate their ideas and emotions through movement.

In addition to technical training, the Cert IV in Dance exposes students to the dance industry more broadly. This may include guest lectures and workshops from industry professionals, as well as opportunities to attend performances and festivals. An understanding of the wider context in which dance exists, enables students to identify the types of career paths that might be available to them, and to start making informed decisions about their own professional development.

Finally, the Cert IV in Dance helps students to start developing a sense of direction about where they want to take their dance career. This may involve exploring different career paths, such as performing, choreography, teaching, or arts administration, and gaining experience in these areas through practical projects and work experience placements. By the end of the course, students should have a clearer idea of their strengths and interests, as well as the skills and knowledge they need to further their professional development in dance.

Units of Study 6 core units plus 7 elective units (Total 13)

Duration 12 months (approx 21.5 hrs over a 5-6 day week)
OR 24 months (approx 14 hours per week)

CORE UNITS 

CUACHR413 Develop choreography skills
CUADAN313 Develop and apply dance partnering techniques
CUADAN417 Develop expertise in dance performance techniques
CUAPRF414 Develop movement skills for performance
CUAPRF415 Rehearse for performances
CUAWHS411 Apply movement and behavioural principles to conditioning

ELECTIVE UNITS

CUACHR411 Create and Perform Dance Pieces
CUADAN418 Develop expertise in ballet techniques
CUADAN419 Develop expertise in contemporary dance techniques
CUAPPR414 Develop Self as Artist
CUADTM431 Dance Teaching and Design
CUAPRF314 Develop audition techniques
CUAWHS311 Condition body for dance performance

Auditions for 2026 intake will be held at The National Ballet School
on Sunday 24 August 2025.  Register Now!

2026

Start

End

#Weeks

Term 1

29 January

3 April

10

2 Weeks holiday

Term 2

20 April

26 June

10

2 Weeks holiday

Term 3

13 July 

18 September

10

2 Weeks holiday

Term 4

5 October 

4 December

9

Students who enter the Certificate IV course will either be completing their final years of schooling or wish to fast track their training towards preparation to audition into the Diploma of Professional Dance (Elite Performance) course. The Certificate IV course is designed to give more advanced skills to younger students on their way to full–time training and a professional career. It offers high level training in all dance styles (Ballet, Character, Jazz and Contemporary). A Certificate IV qualification is equivalent to a year 12 level of qualification.

Acceptance is by audition only (followed by invitation to submit last academic results and zoom interview). Applicants must demonstrate competence in Classical Ballet at Certificate III level and have studied a recognised classical ballet syllabus at Intermediate or above.

The Certificate IV in Dance has a minimum age requirement of 15 or completion of Year 9 of secondary school. All Students will need to provide The National Ballet School with evidence of an LLN test in order to enrol.

2026 Fees

AU/NZ students  $13,400(inc gst) per annum.
International students  $16,900 (inc gst) per annum

The Certificate IV in Dance provides students with a solid foundation in dance technique, performance, and choreography. It is aimed at students who are interested in pursuing a career in dance, whether as a performer, choreographer, teacher, or arts administrator.

The one-year full-time Certificate IV in Dance is an excellent entry point for aspiring dancers who want to explore a professional career in ballet.

While undertaking the Certificate IV in Dance, young students can complete their secondary school education and achieve an ATAR score.

Our highly skilled faculty provide excellent training in classical ballet, contemporary dance, cultural dance, teaching, pointe work, jazz dance, choreographic skills and maintaining fitness through gym and conditioning classes. Students will undertake classes in a variety of dance genres to reflect the demands of the young performer in today’s dance industry. They will be taught to analyse and evaluate information to enhance their understanding of dance and their own practice.

Students may have the opportunity to compete in Australian and International competitions and will take part in several productions throughout the year produced by our Artistic Director and performed on The National Theatre stage.