Professional Dancer Courses
A Professional Dancer performs solo or group routines, creates or follows choreography, rehearses extensively, and works irregular hours.
AI Exposure
Medium
AI exposure data adapted from Felten, Raj & Seamans (2021). Shortage data sourced from Jobs and Skills Australia (2024).
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How do I become a Professional Dancer
Get qualified to work as a Professional Dancer with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
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Blended, On Campus, Online
The Bachelor of Dance Practice provides the skills and experience needed for a career in the dance industry. You will develop abilities in performance, choreography, teaching, and business management, along with knowledge of safe dance practice and community engagement. The course combines creative training with practical experience to prepare you for a variety of roles in this evolving field.
Enquire now for a full list of entry requirements and available enrolment dates.
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Blended, On Campus, Online
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CUA60120
Duration
12 months - 24 months
Study mode
On Campus, Online, RPL
The CUA60120 Advanced Diploma of Professional Dance (Elite Performance) prepares dancers with the technique and skill required for professional companies, commercial settings, or competitions. Students develop advanced movement across diverse dance styles, including classical ballet, contemporary, jazz, and choreography. Training includes elite ballet classes, body conditioning, pas de deux, and solo work. Dancers refine artistic expression, apply creativity, and perform complex routines with autonomy, pr...
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Duration
12 months - 24 months
Study mode
On Campus, Online, RPL
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The Bachelor of Fine Arts (Dance) nurtures dance artists who are both physically adept and culturally insightful. This course offers specialist education in contemporary dance practices, dance science and somatics, critical dance studies, choreography, and performance. It prepares students to meet the technical, kinaesthetic, and creative demands of a dance career. Students will develop a strong foundation in contemporary dance techniques and gain experience across various genres, equipping them with a di...
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10508NAT
The 10508NAT Advanced Diploma of Art (Musical Theatre and Commercial Dance) is for actors, singers, and dancers who have a professional interest in live theatre. This nationally recognised qualification will develop your appreciation of musical theatre and hone your skills for auditions and live performance. Graduate ready to perform a range of complex dance routines (tap, jazz, ballet, contemporary) and with stronger vocals, fitness, and confidence.
Enquire now for the full list of study units and the re...
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Common questions
How much does a Professional Dancer earn?
In Australia, a full time Professional Dancer generally earns $1,250 per week ($65,000 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.
What are the job opportunities for a Professional Dancer?
This industry has seen stable employment growth in recent years. There are currently 1,000 people working as a Professional Dancer in Australia, compared to 1,100 five years ago. Professional Dancers generally find work in larger cities where productions are based.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights
How do I become a Professional Dancer?
A Certificate II in Dance is an ideal qualification if you’re planning a career as a Professional Dancer. This course covers basic dance techniques, artistic expression skills, safe dance practices and physical fitness. You’ll be able to focus on a particular style of dance including ballet, tap, street, contemporary or Aboriginal and cultural dance.
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Looking for a career in the creative industries? Or just want to bring your innate creativity to the surface? Check out these amazing courses in music, theatre, photography, dance, Aboriginal culture, art, and fashion.
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Musical theatre, acting for stage and screen, and contemporary performance skills are all covered by these recognised qualifications. Find out more!
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Choose training courses in a wide range of dance genres including ballet, contemporary, jazz, tap and musical theatre. Find out more!
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More information
A Professional Dancer performs solo or group routines for a live audience or for recorded productions. You might come up with your own choreography or follow a set routine. Professional Dancers spend time rehearsing a performance on their own or as part of a larger group. You may specialise in a particular style of dance such as tap, contemporary or Indigenous performance.
Professional Dancers should be passionate about their craft and willing to put in long hours of practice and rehearsal. It’s important that you are a highly skilled dancer and can follow various types of choreography. Professional Dancers should be physically fit and able to work as part of a team. You may have to work irregular hours including nights and weekends.
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