Diploma of Performing Arts

Study a Diploma of Performing Arts in Acting at Collarts, and immerse yourself in hands-on acting training, performance creation and industry-informed learning.

8

months full-time

4

units per trimester

STUDY MODES

On Campus

NEXT INTAKE

June 2026

LOCATION

Melbourne (Collingwood) and Sydney (Waterloo)

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Study Your Acting Diploma with Collarts

Real-world skills for the role of a lifetime

CRICOS Code 109174F (2 trimesters)/109175E (3 trimesters)/109168D (2 years)/ 109169C (3 years)


The Diploma of Performing Arts (Acting) at Collarts provides a practical foundation in acting, performance, and creative collaboration, preparing you for further study and entry into the performing arts industry. From day one, you’ll develop essential skills in theatre studies, improvisation, writing for performance, voice, movement, technical theatre, and directing, building the core techniques required for professional performance.

Guided by industry-recognised actors, directors, and theatre-makers, you’ll gain hands-on training that strengthens your ability to use your body and voice effectively on stage. The course also builds your confidence, critical thinking, and communication skills, helping you grow as both a performer and a creative collaborator.

You’ll work on real productions and cross-disciplinary projects through Collarts’ industry partnerships, gaining valuable live performance experience while connecting with a supportive and professional creative community.

By the time you graduate, you’ll be equipped to pursue opportunities as an emerging actor in theatre and live performance, supported by your practical training, performance portfolio, and industry networks developed throughout the diploma.

Voted as Australia's #1 provider of creative arts courses for Teaching Quality and Engagement, Collarts will get you there.

Course Information

Options? We’ve got plenty. Get ready to be inspired.

Explore Collarts' in-depth courses and discover your creative future. Speak with a careers consultant or download our course guide today.

Diploma Benefits

A creative journey that fast-tracks your way to the spotlight.

Our Diploma of Performing Arts is a program nestled within a suite of Diploma's degrees in Acting, Writing and Directing, and Stage Management.

In just eight months, you'll gain a solid foundation of knowledge and skills to set you up for success on stage and beyond in acting, stage performing, and all things theatre.

Throughout this Performing Arts in Acting Diploma, you will:

  • Build a strong foundation in acting, movement, voice and stagecraft, gaining confidence in live and recorded performance.

  • Develop broad and practical knowledge of performance techniques, creative methodologies and the core principles that shape contemporary acting practice.

  • Analyse acting theories, rehearsal processes and artistic approaches while exploring how cultural and creative ideas influence performance.

  • Communicate your craft through expressive, purposeful performance suited to different audiences, settings and storytelling styles.

  • Refine your acting skills through creative experimentation, innovation and reflective practice that deepens your artistic range.

  • Gain real-world experience through industry engagement opportunities and hands-on performance projects.

  • Collaborate with students across creative disciplines to build versatile skills and expand your artistic network.

  • Study on campus with access to Collarts’ purpose-built studios, rehearsal spaces and production facilities.

  • No ATAR requirement and no individual subject or score requirements.

Actor

Portray characters in theatre, film, TV, commercials and live performances. Interpret scripts, rehearse scenes, collaborate with directors and fellow performers, and bring storytelling to life through movement, voice and emotion.

Voice Actor / Voice Over Artist

Voice actors use vocal skills to perform character voices for animation, video games, radio, commercials and audiobooks. Interpret scripts, deliver expressive performances purely through voice, and often record in studio settings. Strong vocal control, versatility, and timing are essential.

Event / Performance Host or Entertainer

Roles such as event MC, kids’ entertainer, or immersive experience actor. Engage audiences directly, perform scripted or improvised entertainment, and often adapt performance style to suit event contexts (parties, corporate functions, experiences)

The Collarts Experience

Experience life at Collarts through a vibrant creative community shaped by industry insight, cultural relevance and real-world learning—explore campuses, events and student life via Collarts Life. This ethos is embedded throughout our courses, including the Bachelor of Graphic and Digital Design.

Student Life

Student life at Collarts mirrors real-world creative industries, offering a collaborative, cross-disciplinary environment where students learn alongside peers from across the creative spectrum. From hands-on projects to campus events, students are supported by dedicated wellbeing and academic services throughout their studies. Discover what student life at Collarts is all about and how it shapes your Bachelor experience via Student Life at Collarts.

Life After Collarts

Hannah, Performing Arts Alumni

"It's a community that fosters all of these new creatives that want to put stuff into the world."

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Need more information

Join an online or in person information session to meet your teaching staff, visit the campuses, and ask questions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Your Diploma of Performing Arts course can’t wait. Neither can you.