Circus Ars

Delivered by the National Institute of Circus Arts (NICA), explore Collarts’ Circus Arts courses, which prepares you for an unforgettable career in professional performance.

Defy gravity, tell stories, and entertain audiences like no other art form can. Choose from a Certificate IV or Bachelor of Circus Arts and develop practical skills whilst developing real industry connections to help you reach your full potential.

Explore Circus Arts courses at Collarts

Certificate IV in Circus Arts (11361NAT)

The Certificate IV in Circus Arts is the ideal entry point into contemporary circus training. Develop foundational skills in physical performance, circus technique, creative practice, and stagecraft while building strength, confidence, and artistic expression.

Choosing one of three elective specialisations: Specialty Artist, Circus Coach, or Show Technical Support, this practical, hands-on course provides a pathway into further study and professional circus training while helping you develop the discipline and resilience required for a career in the performing arts.

Course Duration: 1 Year Full-Time

Study Mode: On Campus

Campus Location: Prahran, Melbourne

Intakes: February

Bachelor of Circus Arts

The Bachelor of Circus Arts combines elite-level technical training with creative development, performance creation, and industry engagement. You’ll develop the versatility required to succeed across contemporary circus, theatre, live performance, festivals, and international touring productions.

Through extensive performance opportunities, industry projects, and professional mentorship, you’ll graduate not just performance-ready, but industry-ready.

Course Duration: 3 Years Full-Time

Study Mode: On Campus

Campus Location: Prahran, Melbourne

Intakes: January

Study in Australia’s Home of Circus Arts

Train at NICA’s world-class circus facility in Prahan, Melbourne.


You’ll have access to purpose-built training spaces, performance venues, aerial rigging systems, specialist circus equipment, movement studios, and collaborative creative environments designed to support every stage of their artistic development.

The Prahran campus places you within one of Australia’s most vibrant arts communities, surrounded by theatres, festivals, creative organisations, and industry opportunities.

Choosing the Right Qualification For You

Every circus artist begins their journey differently. Whether you’re discovering contemporary circus for the first time or pursuing professional performance opportunities, Collarts offers pathways designed to meet you where you are and help you reach your goals.

Entry Requirements and Eligibility

Applicants should have a background in performing arts, physical theatre, youth circus, dance, acrobatic sports, or gymnastics.

Successful applicants must be physically able to undertake the rigorous NICA training.

Students train physically between four and six hours a day in circus skills, fitness, dance and movement.

Why Study Circus Arts at NICA/Collarts?

Industry-Connected Training

Learn from working circus artists, directors, and industry professionals actively shaping the contemporary performance landscape.

World-Class Facilities

Train in NICA’s purpose-built studios and performance spaces featuring specialist circus equipment and professional-standard facilities.

Professional Performance Opportunities

Gain real-world experience through public performances, productions, showcases, and industry-facing projects throughout your studies.

Frequently Asked Questions

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