Apply Now: Bachelor of Circus Arts at NICA

Dream of studying in Australia?

Apply now for the Bachelor of Circus Arts at the National Institute of Circus Arts, Melbourne, Australia.

Applications close 1 September 2025.⁠


ABOUT THE COURSE

NICA is an internationally renowned Centre of Excellence, delivering world-class tertiary-level circus arts education, training, and performance out of its state-of-the-art facilities in Melbourne, Australia.

The Bachelor of Circus Arts is a three-year full-time course that combines immersive and experiential practice-based studies and applied theory in contemporary circus arts, large-scale ensemble and showcase performance experiences, and industry learning opportunities. The program equips students with the skills, networks, and knowledge to establish a sustainable career on the world stage of circus, physical theatre, and performing arts. It is the highest level of accredited circus training in Australia.

NICA’s innovative curriculum is delivered by a supportive and highly experienced faculty of professional artists, educational leaders, and circus practitioners, teaching technical excellence that enables each creative artist to flourish. Students are also supported by an on-site medical team including a physiotherapist, sports doctor and sports psychologist.


Major studies:

Circus arts specialisations in two apparatus or disciplines, ensemble performance and technical aspects of circus production, anatomy and biomechanics, history and culture of circus arts, the business of circus, the contemporary circus industry, and music and circus.

Course code: BACA CRICOS Course Code: 117405G


NICA also offers a Certificate IV in Circus Arts (currently for domestic students only). It is one-year of full-time study that combines in-person training sessions with NICA’s world-class teaching faculty, with integrated online learning components. In 2026, the course will comprise of 9 core units in foundational circus studies, and a set of 4 elective units that complete one of three Specialisation Streams: Specialty Artist, Circus Coach, and Show Technical Support. The course is designed to equip emerging artists with the broad skillset to work in the industry at entry-level, or to audition for the Bachelor program.

Course Code: 11361NAT


Entry Requirements:

Entrance into NICA’s higher ed programs is competitive, attracting applicants nationally and internationally each year.

Applicants are required to partake in an Audition, interview, and physiotherapy assessment.
Pre-requisites: Year 12 or equivalent studies. Contact our admissions team to discuss international requirements [email protected]

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

Auditions for entry into NICA’s accredited courses in 2026 will be held at NICA between 22-25 September 2025. Video auditions can be submitted for those who cannot attend an in-person audition and are due on 22 September 2025.

For more information, visit: www.nica.com.au/ed