Associate Degree of Dramatic Art (CRICOS course code 081416E) is an Associate Degree delivered by Excelsia University College over 2 years. This AQF Level 6 course is designed for international students pursuing a foundational education in drama and theatre studies. Excelsia University College, a private institution registered on CRICOS (provider code 02664K), delivers this program at its Pennant Hills campus in New South Wales. The course equips graduates with practical performance skills, theoretical knowledge, and an understanding of the performing arts industry, preparing them for further study or entry-level roles. With Australia's robust ESOS Act protections, international students can trust that this CRICOS-registered course meets quality standards. HeadStart Academy sources all data from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, ensuring accuracy.
Associate Degree of Dramatic Art (CRICOS course code 081416E) is a 2-year full-time program (104 weeks) offered by Excelsia University College, a private higher education provider CRICOS-registered under code 02664K. The course falls under the field of Drama and Theatre Studies (100103), within the broader Creative Arts area. Students at this AQF Level 6 develop essential skills in performance, script analysis, stagecraft, and collaborative production. The course is taught in English and does not include a mandatory work component. Delivered at Excelsia University College's campus at 1 City View Road, Pennant Hills NSW 2120, this program provides a nurturing environment for aspiring performers and theatre practitioners. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international education, and students benefit from ESOS Act protections, including tuition fee safeguards and access to the Tuition Protection Service.
This Associate Degree in Dramatic Art immerses students in the practical and theoretical aspects of drama and theatre studies. The curriculum typically covers acting techniques, voice and movement, script interpretation, theatre history, and production elements such as lighting, sound, and set design. At AQF Level 6, students gain a comprehensive foundation that balances performance skills with critical analysis and creative problem-solving. Graduates often pursue further education in bachelor’s programs or enter the performing arts industry in roles like actor, director, stage manager, or arts administrator. While specific subjects are set by Excelsia University College, the field of education (10 - Creative Arts, 1001 Performing Arts, 100103 Drama and Theatre Studies) ensures a focus on both artistic expression and professional readiness. This course equips international students with culturally diverse perspectives, enhancing their employability in the global performing arts sector.
The Associate Degree of Dramatic Art has a standard duration of 2 years (104 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Delivered in English, the program is a single qualification (no dual awards or foundation studies). The course is offered on a full-time basis, typically requiring approximately 20 hours of structured learning per week, plus independent study. There is no VET national code as this is a higher education award. Excelsia University College may offer flexible study options; contact the provider for details on class schedules and delivery modes. International students should note that the 104-week duration satisfies the requirements for a Student visa (Subclass 500) and allows for two years of study in Australia.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$48,464, with non-tuition fees of A$300 (e.g., application fees, materials), bringing the estimated total to A$48,764. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Please note that costs for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (e.g., rent, groceries, transport), and the Student visa application charge are not included. For current fee schedules, always confirm directly with Excelsia University College at excelsia.edu.au. As a guide, international students in Sydney should budget approximately A$600–800 per week for living costs, including accommodation, food, and public transport. HeadStart Academy provides these figures for reference only.
Entry requirements for the Associate Degree of Dramatic Art are set by Excelsia University College. International students must demonstrate English language proficiency, typically through IELTS with a minimum overall score of 5.5 to 7.0 (depending on the provider’s policy). For this level (AQF Level 6), students are generally expected to have completed Year 12 or equivalent qualification. Some institutions may consider relevant work experience or foundation programs. Excelsia may also require an audition or portfolio as part of the selection process. Foundation or pathway options may be available for students who do not meet direct entry criteria; consult the provider for details. HeadStart Academy advises checking the official Excelsia University College website for precise requirements.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. Students are therefore not required to undertake work placements as part of their studies. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks, subject to visa conditions. This flexibility allows students to gain part-time work experience while completing their academic program.
The Associate Degree of Dramatic Art is delivered at Excelsia University College's campus located at 1 City View Road, Pennant Hills NSW 2120. Pennant Hills is a suburb in Sydney's North Shore region, approximately 20 km from the Sydney central business district. The campus is accessible by public transport, including train and bus services, with Pennant Hills station nearby. The area offers a quiet, residential study environment with access to Sydney's vibrant cultural and performing arts scene. Sydney itself is home to over 100 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student population, offering diverse opportunities for networking and recreation. Living costs in Sydney are higher than the national average, with indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment around A$250–400, groceries A$80–120, and public transport A$40–60.
International students enrolling in this CRICOS-registered course will need to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Excelsia University College, evidence of English proficiency, and genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for the duration of the visa. Student work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Financial capacity must be demonstrated to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised advice. ESOS Act protections ensure your rights as an international student in Australia.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Associate Degree of Dramatic Art at Excelsia University College:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Associate Degree), field (Creative Arts), and location (NSW). Verify that Excelsia University College (CRICOS 02664K) meets your preferences. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Visit excelsia.edu.au to review entry requirements, including English language tests (e.g., IELTS) and academic qualifications. Check application deadlines and submit the required documents, including academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency, and any audition materials. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once accepted, Excelsia will issue a CoE. Use it to lodge your Student visa (Subclass 500) application with the Department of Home Affairs, arranging OSHC and demonstrating financial capacity.
Australia offers a thriving performing arts scene with world-class training institutions. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,000+ courses, international students can find programs ranging from certificate to doctoral levels. The Associate Degree level provides a cost-effective pathway to a bachelor’s degree or direct entry into the industry. Sydney, in particular, boasts numerous theatres, production companies, and festivals, offering valuable networking and performance opportunities. When choosing a drama course, consider factors like faculty expertise, industry connections, campus facilities, and location. Pennant Hills' proximity to Sydney's cultural hubs makes it an ideal base for aspiring performers. HeadStart Academy is a free resource to help you compare CRICOS-registered options without referral fees.
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Associate Degree of Dramatic Art is a CRICOS-registered programme at Excelsia University College. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.